If the walls of the Hydro Majestic could talk, they’d have many a tale to tell. How I’d love to be transported back in time to 1904 to be a hotel guest when the hotel was owned by Mark Foy and operating as a health retreat. Although the Hydro Majestic is no longer a health retreat, it still offers guests and visitors, rest, relaxation, and decadence at every turn. When we recently headed to the Blue Mountains it was for all those reasons, and we loved having the opportunity to indulge in the Hydro Majestic’s stunning Spring Blossom High Tea. If you’re looking for a wheelchair accessible location for an extra special high tea experience in the Blue Mountains, then this is for you.
Hydro Majestic high tea – accessible dining Blue Mountains
My mum and I used to be regulars on the high tea circuit so my review credentials are solid. As a result, I think I’m a harsh marker, but I honestly couldn’t find fault with a thing about our experience.
We visited on a clear spring day and the view of the Megalong Valley was spectacular, the new spring-inspired high tea was on offer and our wait staff were enthusiastic and bubbly. It was the perfect romantic afternoon treat.
Three high tea options were offered including an Eastern High Tea, the Wintergarden High Tea and the Spring Blossom High Tea, which was our choice. We didn’t regret our decision as each layer of our high tea stand was bursting with colour, flavour and unique delights.
The Spring Blossom High Tea has an ideal mix of sweet and savoury options. Despite savouring the experience over a period of time it was difficult to find room for every delightful treat on the stand. It was a tough job but we gallantly persisted. I had no room for dinner!
I’m curious to know the tactics others use to tackle a high tea stand. Do you have an approach when it comes to devouring a high tea? I start with the savouries, move to the top of the stand and finish on the scones with my cup of tea. Despite a wonderful array of teas on offer, I can’t go past a good English Breakfast tea. Ironically, it is often the strength of the tea that lets down a high tea for me, but not at the Hydro, my tea was was just right. Yes, I am a little like Goldilocks when it comes to a cuppa.
Although the high tea takes centre stage, it should be noted that the panoramic views, plush furnishings and grandeur of the Wintergarden Restaurant make this more than a foodie’s experience. My eyes wandered the room taking in all the details and appreciating the fact that history has been preserved so beautifully for us to continue to enjoy.
You can read more about the high tea options at the Hydro Majestic on its website.
Bookings are essential.
Hydro Majestic high tea – accessibility
Despite the historic nature of the Hydro Majestic, wheelchair accessibility is good.
From the car park there is level access into the Wintergarden Restaurant where the high teas are served.
Once inside there is a step directly in front of the entry to the restaurant but if go to either the left or the right of those stairs there is a small ramp for access into the restaurant.
Small aisles between the tables provide enough space for wheelchair users, or those using a walking frame, to access the tables. Restaurant chairs can be removed at the tables for access for wheelchair users.
A unisex stand-alone accessible bathroom is provided. Head to the left of the restaurant (left as you look at the view of the Megalong Valley) where you will see signage to the general toilets. The ladies and men’s bathrooms are down a large staircase but just before you get to the staircase there is a door to the right. Go through and you’ll find the accessible bathroom.There is no signage to the accessible bathroom that’s why I am providing detailed instructions.
Hydro Majestic’s Boiler House Restaurant
Several years ago my mum and I enjoyed a lovely lunch at the Boiler House Restaurant, so on our recent trip I popped in to see if anything had changed because I was keen to recommend it to our Have Wheelchair Will Travel community.
I’m happy to say everything looks just as good as on my previous visit. The Boiler House Restaurant offers gorgeous views of the Megalong Valley and a casual menu which includes pizza, pasta and seafood.
Seating is well spaced to allow access for wheelchair users or anyone using a walking frame. Lift access is provided from the car park and a stand-alone unisex bathroom is available within the restaurant.
Hydro Majestic Pavilion
If you’re in a hurry, or just driving through Medlow Bath, don’t miss stopping at the Hydro Majestic Pavilion. The cafe will satisfy both sweet and savoury cravings, offers takeaway options and a delightful gift shop. If you have an interest in the history of the Hydro Majestic, take a look at the book on Mark Foy which is on display in the shop.
The Pavilion also showcases some of the Hydro Majestic’s history which was salvaged during renovations.
Check out the old style wheelchairs at the rear of the store. They certainly don’t look built for comfort but then again, we were told they were just used to wheel guests to and from their health treatments.
Access to the Pavilion is via a ramp to the left of the building.
If you’re day tripping or staying in the Blue Mountains, a visit to the Hydro Majestic should definitely be on your list. And if you are celebrating a special occasion or just want an extra special treat, we highly recommend the Wintergarden for high tea. Make sure you say cheers to us if you add a glass of bubbly to the experience.
Read more about the Hydro Majestic, accommodation and dining options on their website.
We were hosted for afternoon tea at the Hydro Majestic but our review is the result of a divine afternoon which left me in a delightful food coma.
If you’re heading to the Blue Mountains, make sure you check out our accessible Blue Mountains guide, we’re adding to it with each visit to the region.
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