Far from being stuffy, this heritage Highlands hotel is playful at heart

You will be so relaxed you will forget about work on Monday.

Perched on the edge of the ancient bushland of Morton National Park, Osborn House is just the sort of quirky, colourful hotel you first imagine when hearing the words "boutique" and "Southern Highlands" in the same sentence. Originally built in 1892, this historic guesthouse has been reimagined as a chic hideaway, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern luxury. With the addition of new luxury cabins, an Argentinian-inspired menu, and a spa that whispers tranquillity, Osborn House is a destination for those seeking an indulgent, restorative escape.

As I approach, the grand gates swing open, revealing a tree-lined driveway that feels like the start of a hidden adventure. Tucked away in peaceful Bundanoon, my private cabin has a treetop vista of the national park. Kangaroos nibble on grass outside and birdsong serenades. Despite my usual tendency to retreat indoors with a good book, these gardens and the bushland beyond - a stark contrast of beautifully manicured landscaping and gnarled gumtrees - are too enticing to ignore.

Far from a traditional, stuffy heritage hotel, this place buzzes with life and personality; the decor popping with bold colours, cheeky naked murals and curvaceous furniture. Crackling fireplaces form the centre of communal areas, inviting guests to chat as they sip cocktails. My only disappointment is the quirky furnishings are bespoke, and that one lamp I still dream about can't be purchased.

A breeze rustles the treetops as I soak in the suds of an outdoor bathtub on my private balcony. While the rooms inside the main hotel offer a taste of old world charm, the new cabins are boho chic. A bottle of sparkling wine awaited me on arrival, and within moments I found myself drinking a glass in the bath while watching the sunset. The cool evening air on my face, warm sudsy water and effervescent vino was the perfect tonic for daily stresses.

Osborn House elevates dining to an art form. The moment I step through the doors, I'm led to a comfy lounge in front of a fireplace, handed a glass of champagne and a plate of smoky, cheesy, flakey empanadas (warning, you'll leave your holiday with a penchant for these pastry parcels). Delicious food and wine is a theme during my stay: my favourite dish is a ceviche of melt-in-your-mouth wagyu, served with a wicked amount of parmesan.

My travelling companion's broken leg meant we eschewed the more adrenaline-pumping experiences, such as horse-riding. Instead, we went on a leisurely walk through the national park, admiring mountain ranges from lookouts high above the valley. There is an unspoken rule when visiting the Southern Highlands, one must go antiquing. Luckily, the hotspots of Berrima and Bowral are only a short drive away.

At its heart, Osborn House is a spa and I had the opportunity to try my first facial, something I found intimidating until the transformative neck and shoulder massage helped ease me into the whole experience. Top that off with a deep hot stone massage and visit to the jacuzzi and you will be so relaxed you will forget, momentarily, about work on Monday.

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