PRESS ARTICLES

Island luxury with a view

Weekend Away – Courier Mail
February, 2005

by John Wright

First impressions: Of the island on the approach by air, unforgettable; of the lodge, classy, luxurious, spacious, quiet, exclusive and sensitive to the environment.

The rooms: A mixture of suites and loft rooms and one very large family room, all with superb decks and some with mezzanine bedrooms. They are tastefully furnished, with polished wooden floors, cane lounges, Bruce Goold artwork, stereo systems and other mod cons.

The views: Possibly the best views anywhere of the Island’s dramatic southern mountains and coastline, both from some of the rooms and from the main lodge building. There is a widow’s walk at the lodge, which adds a cute touch.

The beds: The rooms all have comfortable king-size beds, and the family room also has two singles. One room has its own spa. The pure cotton linen adds to the feeling of luxury.

The bathroom: Does the job. Premium brand toiletries, bathrobes, and beach towels are provided and the linen and towels are changed every third day for longer stay guests. Rainwater is used in all guest suites and there is commendable commitment to preserving the environment.

The food: the Capella Restaurant, with its incomparable views, has a reputation for serving fine, locally caught seafood and locally sourced meat and organic vegetables. Both its three-course dinners, which feature homemade ice creams and freshly baked bread, and its gourmet breakfasts are included in the house guest tariff. There is a great adjoining terrace for sunset drinks and also an honesty bar system.

What is there to do close by: Walking, beach-fishing, bicycling, snorkelling, canoeing – this and everything else that people come to Lord Howe for.

How much a night?: From $375 per person per night ( twin share) and $488 per night (single) until March 31. Tariff includes dinner, sunset drinks and canapés, breakfast, transfers, backpacks or beach bags and the use of mountain bikes, snorkelling gear and lagoon canoes. The lodge has a “pay for seven nights stay for eight package”

Check-in, check-out: 2pm; 10.30am

Worth another visit?: Definitely. The lodge has had a $1.5 million refurbishment and has struck exactly the right feel for a relaxing holiday in refined surroundings on this picturesque South Pacific island.

Article coutesy of The Courier Mail