Luxury Accommodation by Md Asaduzzaman

Weekends

SHORT BREAKS & ROMANTIC ESCAPES

W IN

Great beach

HOLIDAYS

A FREE LUXU LONG WEEKE RY N IN FAR NORTHD QUEENSL AND

Australian style

Mountain high

ESCAPES

Islands

in the sun SPRING/SUMMER 2009 $9.95

Luxury accommodation reviews PROPERTIES FROM AUSTRALIA, BALI, VANUATU AND NEW ZEALAND

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PUBLISHER: Larry Jamieson Editor: Jenny Burns ADVERTISING SALES: NSW (North) – Alan Batt, NSW (South) ACT, SA & Asia – Melinda McMahon WA, VIC & NT – Jacqui Glendinning QLD – Greg Firth TAS & NZ – Phillip Punshon Advertising & Editorial Co-ordinator: Fiona Parsons Graphic Designer: Fiona Parsons WEB & IT MANAGER: Md Asaduzzaman WEB PRODUCTION: Md Asaduzzaman SUBSCRIPTIONS: Carolyn Jamieson ACCOUNTS: Julie Buchanan APPRENTICE ENTREPRENEUR: Bailey Neate feature writers: Alison Plummer; Michelle Fincke; Carolyn Jamieson

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Jamieson Publishing Pty Ltd would like to thank the following bureaux for their contribution to photography within this magazine: Blue Mountains Tourism Bureau, Central Coast Tourism, Hunter River & Hunter Valley Tourism, South Coast Tourism, Melbourne & Mornington Peninsula Tourism, Tourism NT, Lord Howe Island Tourism, Tourism New South Wales, Gold Coast Tourism, Sunshine Coast Tourism, Tourism Queensland, South Australian Tourism Commission, Tourism Tasmania, Tourism Victoria and Tourism Western Australia, Fiji Island Visitors Bureau, James Lauritz, Jeremy Simons, Robert Bruce, Simmone Vivers, Joe Shemesh, Garry Moore, Nick Osborne, Paul Osta, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, Graeme Murray, Club Med. Copyright 2008 Jamieson Publishing Pty Ltd. This publication may not, in whole or in part, be lent, copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic medium or machine readable form without the express written permission of the publishers. While the publishers have taken all reasonable precautions and make all reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy of the material contained in this publication, it is a condition of purchase of this magazine that the publishers do not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission in this publication, or from the use of information contained herein and the publishers make no warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of the material contained herein. Weekends for Two takes care in its selection of properties which it believes would most interest readers of this publication. The properties featured assist in funding part of the production cost of Weekends for Two.

contents spring summer &

FEAtURES 02-04 Australia’s Great Beach Holidays 05-07 High on a high 08-09 Summer mountain magic 10-11 Island holidays

QUEENSLANd

12 13-16 17-24 25-31 32-37

Map Gold Coast Sunshine Coast & Hinterland tropical North QLd Norfolk Island

NEW SoUtH WALES 38 39-42 43-46 47-48 49-53 54-61 62-65 66-67 68-74 75-83

Map Blue Mountains Bathurst & orange Hawkesbury Central Coast Mid North Coast & Hunter Region Far North Coast Lord Howe Island Snowy Mountains South Coast

ACt

84-87

Canberra

VICtoRIA 88 89-91 92-95 96-99 100-103

Map Melbourne dandenongs & Yarra Valley Gippsland Great ocean Road

SoUtH AUStRALIA 104-106 Adelaide

tASMANIA 107 108-112

Map tasmania

WEStERN AUStRALIA 113-115

Margaret River

PACIFIC ISLANdS 116-117 118-119 120-126

New Zealand Vanuatu Ratua Bali

Image courtesy Tourism Queensland.

WIN 4 NIGHT’S ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO AT THALA BEACH LODGE* in a deluxe bungalow, including tropical breakfast daily, scheduled daily transfers to/from Port douglas, guided nature tours, outdoor stargazing at onsite observatory and evening entertainment by local specialists. *Subject to availability. Valid until 31/3/10.

Subscribe to Weekends For two to go into the draw (Subscription form on page 127).

beach holidays

The Broadwater, Southport. Image courtesy Tourism Queensland

’ Australia s

great beach holidays Beach-going is the Australian way of life reports Michelle Fincke.

or people from other parts of the world, Australia is a beach – one long, perfect golden ribbon of sand wrapped around a whole continent, surrounded by impossibly blue oceans. And we’re all surfers, lounging in board shorts, soaking up the rays in an endless, decadent summer. We wish. The fact is, of course, we’re at schools and in offices, commuting to busy cities, sitting in front of whirring fans on stifling evenings. But chances are that we’re dreaming of the beach. The stereotypical image of Australia has a grain of truth to it – we love the sand, the sea, the salt air and the freedom and happiness they bring. Our childhood memories are so often dominated by the seaside, of tender feet running burnt on hot sand, of building sandcastles and getting tossed by casual waves, of finding crabs and eating sandy sandwiches. We remember the exhilaration of that first real swim in the sea, bobbing on the surface, thinking how vast it all is. When we think of holidays, the beach is usually the first place that comes to mind. For a start, there are a lot of beaches to

choose from. The mainland coast of Australia stretches for nearly 37,000 km and one estimate puts the number of beaches here at more than 11,000. Most of us live near the coast. Eighty-five per cent of Australians live just an hour’s drive from the water’s edge. Its little wonder, then, that the beach culture here is so strong, so deeply ingrained. We love a casual beach visit – to walk the dog in winter, to sit in the car and stare out at the crashing waves when the weather is too cold for walking, to buy an ice-cream from a van and stroll with the sand between our toes for an hour. But most of all we live for a beach holiday, from camping on a crowded foreshore to a family break spent in a self-catered apartment to the ultimate spoil, a stay in a luxury bed and breakfast or an opulent hotel overlooking the sparkling ocean from your own private balcony. Beaches are the great equalizer. They belong to us all. Whether you’re snoozing on a Louis Vuitton towel or your 20-year-old threadbare favourite, the fun is just the same.

Bondi Beach filled with summer crowds, Bondi. Image courtesy Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales.

Swimming at Vivonne Bay Beach, Vivonne Bay, Kangaroo Island, South Australia Image courtesy South Australian Tourism Corporation.

driftwood and unusual shells. There are, also, dark brooding beaches, defined by rocky outcrops, punctuated by boulders and rockpools brimming with the sea’s treasures. There are surf beaches that beckon the board riders but that leave the rest of us in awe, astonished by the water’s power, beauty and danger. And there are the city beaches where we sit, shoulder to shoulder on hot days, under sun shelters or sweltering on towels, playing in the sand or tossing tennis balls to each other in waist-deep water. It’s estimated that 40,000 people can hit the hot sands of legendary Bondi Beach in Sydney on Christmas Day. It can be busy, hot and chaotic, but part of the pleasure of a beautiful beach can be sharing it with others, with the collective enjoyment of a national pastime. Beach-going is simply the Australian way. The beach brings out the adventurer in us. It’s the place for once-a-year fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving, for mucking about in boats and yachts of all shapes and sizes. Many Australians surf seriously, but on a beach holiday, many more of us grab anything that floats and take our chances among the breaking waves, channelling our inner Layne Beachley and loving every minute of it. Other beach-goers prefer the gentler pleasures of the seaside – beachcombing, strolling in the shallows, shell collecting, sipping lattes and eating delicious slabs of summer cheesecake at a fashionable beachside café. Where there are holiday-makers, there are the creature comforts of spas, malls, boutiques, bars and restaurants, even at the beach. While the travel brochures are alluring, a beach doesn’t have to have fringed palm trees, hammocks and fruity cocktails to be a holiday destination. The Australian coast harbours so many different styles of beach – from the tropical beaches of the north that are the stuff of holiday dreams, to the improbably long stretches of serene sand of the southern states. There are small, secret beaches too, tucked in National Parks and secluded places, surrounded by bush and strewn with twisted 4

Weekends for Two recommends the following activities and accommodation to help ensure a great beach holiday. • Sunset Waters - Page 15 • Glen Eden Beach Resort – Page 21 • Heli Charters Australia- Page 27 • Executive Retreats- Page 28 • Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel – Page 29 • Thala Beach Lodge – Page 31

Surfing, Hat Head. Image courtesy Don Fuchs, Tourism New South Wales.

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active holidays

High on a Tandem Skydiving, Airlie Beach. Image courtesy Tourism Queensland.

high

Great experiences await adrenalin junkies in Australia reports Michelle Fincke.

n intrepid friend describes his first flight in a microlight aircraft as like riding a motorbike for the first time when you’ve always been cocooned inside a car. All around you is the exhilaration of icy, breezy empty space, with the ground a long, long way below. Soaring high above the fertile valleys near Mt Buffalo in north east Victoria, the pilot cuts the engine and you glide, twisting and turning, with the wind buffeting you from all sides and roaring in your ears. Somewhere below, safely on terra firma, people are snoring under trees beside tranquil rivers, lounging on boats with trashy novels and cold beers, strolling blissfully on beaches. They’re doing everything to reduce their heart rate. But flying in this tiny aircraft? Well, you wouldn’t miss it for the world.

Ballooning, Yarra Valley. Image courtesy Global Ballooning

That’s the magic of holidays and humans. While some are content to browse for antiques, others are joyfully throwing themselves out of planes, scaling impossible rock walls, exploring caves, shooting rapids and diving deep into the mysterious blue.

Abseiling, Mt Buffalo. Image courtesy Tourism Victoria. For many, the big skies and liberation of being away from home propels them towards an air adventure. Hot air balloon operations can be found throughout Australia, with wonderful flights over Canberra, Victoria’s beautiful Yarra Valley and the Red Centre. Too tough to travel in a basket? Why not try a solo or tandem parachute jump, hang gliding, gliding or helicopter sightseeing. Take to the skies like the fighter aces of old in a beautiful vintage Tiger Moth, or as a passenger in a more advanced, and considerably swifter jet fighter. The water, of course, provides a myriad of opportunities, from surfing and jet-boating to sea-kayaking the Whitsundays. Many Australians have experienced their first, and sometimes only, scuba dive among the vivid corals and inquisitive tropical fish on the Great Barrier Reef. The Australian coast is thick with reputable learn-to-dive operators, and your first open water dive could lead to a shed full of equipment and a lifetime spent exploring fascinating shipwrecks and majestic underwater caves. When planning a first dive, check the medical requirements carefully.

Whitewater Rafting on Barron River. Image courtesy Tourism Queensland.

Some may suggest, too, that you’d also need a head examination to dive with sharks. It’s not all gnashing teeth and shark cages (although you can do that too, with the formidable Great Whites off the coast of South Australia). You can dive with our gentle giant whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef near Exmouth in Western Australia, with grey nurse sharks on the NSW coast and even with the placid species in city aquariums. Operators around the country also offer opportunities to dive with dolphins and seals. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Shark Cage Diving, South Australia. Image courtesy South Australian Tourism.

If you’ve ever dreamed of surfing, chances are that where there’s a wave, there’ll be someone nearby with the equipment and patience to teach you. And white-water rafting, too, offers a memorable aquatic rush, whether it is the high-energy day-trips available near Cairns, or the majesty of an extended journey on the remote Franklin River in south-west Tasmania. For many, adrenalin-charged activities are the perfect way to interact with our rugged, challenging landscape. Horse and camel treks can take you into magnificent isolation, while abseiling, canyoning and caving courses cater for those keen to venture into some of the country’s most out-of-the-way places.

Scuba Diver with Red Throad Snapper, Great Barrier Reef. Image courtesy Tourism Victoria.

While mountaineers are advised to head for a country with, er, real mountains, the fascinating rock walls and ancient formations of the famed Mt Arapiles area in Victoria as well as NSW’s Blue Mountains draw thrillseekers from all over the world. While you can learn rockclimbing in climate-controlled indoor comfort throughout Australia, there’s nothing like joining a trip and testing your skill and nerve in the great outdoors. And that craze of the plain crazy, the ultimate “seize-the-day”, adrenalin-loaded holiday experience, the bungee jump? Rest assured it’s still alive and screaming in Cairns and the Gold Coast. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Handgliding, Mt Buffalo. Image courtesy Tourism Victoria.

escape summer

Summer mountain

magic

Mountain biking, Snowy Mountains. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales.

The lazy days of summer…for some the thought is heaven on earth. It means wonderfully hot weather, the beach and such delights as the feel of warm sand on well manicured toes and the cooling water of the ocean.

or others, well - it’s pure hell. Unbearably hot days, sunburn, heat rash and pesky sand in their clothes and car are their most common thoughts. Ideally their summer days would be spent in a northern hemisphere winter! Fortunately for `heat haters’ there is a solution far closer to home - the hills. Depending on how far you want to travel you can `lose a few degrees’ by escaping to the hills that surround coastal cities or you can get really serious and head to the mountains.

Alpine Way, Snowy Mountains. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales.

Rail Trail, Great Alpine Road. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

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Springbrook National Park. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland.

Heading to the hills in summer to escape the heat is nothing new. Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges, New South Wales’ Southern Highlands and Queenland’s Hinterland areas have been a magnet for visitors since the early days of Australia’s settlement. In those days there was no air-conditioning to help survive the heat, so it was to cooler parts the wealthy headed during the summer months. They built stunning homes and created magnificent gardens, many of which have stood the test of time. In more recent times many of us have recognised the benefits of living all year round in the hills and the resulting infrastructure has ensured these areas offer much to visitors and locals alike no matter what the time of year. After all, enjoying great locally grown produce, dining in an atmospheric restaurant, admiring the works of talented artists in a gallery or shopping for fun knick-knacks are non weather specific. At the same time, recognizing the natural beauty of these areas, governments have moved to protect much of the environment in national and state parks. As a result you can experience such delights as picnicking under a huge eucalypt tree, swimming in a waterhole in a national park or strolling along a walking track in the forest in splendid isolation. While the hills have long been a favoured summer destination it’s only been in recent times that our major mountain ranges have been seen as year round destinations. Interestingly the Europeans and North Americans have always known the benefits of a summer break in the mountains. Many of their mountain resorts are even busier in summer than winter. While we are still a few years from this, we are catching up. Head to New South Wales’ Snowy Mountains or Victoria’s north east and you’ll find more to do than ever before and many more accommodation options to choose from. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Sailing, Lake Jindabyne. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales.

Many of the activities on offer take full advantage of the natural surrounds. Mountain lakes are ideal for fishing, sailing, windsurfing and even in some parts, water skiing. For the truly adventurous there are such options as white water rafting, parasailing and rock climbing. Mountain biking and great walking tracks abound for those who prefer to remain on firm ground. You can even walk to Australia’s tallest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko. The easiest walk departs from the top of the Crackenback Chairlift in the Thredbo Village. It’s a surprisingly easy stroll over gentle slopes along a raised metal walking track. Wildflowers and glacial lakes are amongst the scenic highlights. If a walk of 12 kilometres return is a little daunting, a walk to the Kosciuszko Lookout is only about four kilometres return and it affords excellent views of the mountain and the top of the range. Of course lovers of a mountain summer need no convincing of its many delights. For many couples the challenge occurs when only one wants to spend all summer on the beach. The answer, head to the hills for at least one weekend. You may well find you have another convert to a cool summer break.

Jenny Burns

Weekends for Two recommends the following great places to experience summer mountain magic: • Blue Summit Cottages - Page 23 • Maleny Views Cottage Resort – Page 24 • Banjo Paterson Inn – Page 71 • Guthega Alpine – Page 72 • Quality Resort Horizons – Page 73 • Lake Crackenback Resort – Page 74

great island retreats

Island holidays No matter what your interest there’s an island for you as Michelle Fincke reports.

ustralia is an island surrounded by islands. They ring the continent like a giant charm bracelet – each one a little bigger, rockier, sandier, greener or more remote than its neighbour.

Some are adorned by clouds of brilliant blue butterflies, others covered in squabbling seabirds or raucous penguins. Many are encircled by delicate corals and the colourful sea life that makes the reef its home. And some are little more than windswept rocks, with a few courageous clumps of grass clinging on for dear life. There are still others that are a bit shinier … the ones decorated with man-made bling. Things like swimming pools, tennis courts, restaurants, marinas, luxury villas with glorious views of the ocean. These are the ones most of us have in mind when we think of an island retreat. Of the staggering 8,222 islands dotted around Australia’s enormous coastline, only a relative handful have been developed as holiday destinations. But even among those, there is a remarkable range of accommodation options and variety of recreational experiences available. Some islands are perfect for campers, boaters and hikers. Criss-crossed with challenging hiking tracks and simple campgrounds, visitors exchange luxurious facilities and cocktails on the terrace for simpler pleasures; to relish the intimate access to nature, the unspoilt bush and a sense of independence. But for many needing rest, relaxation and romance, the island with the lot is high on the wish list. Most island resorts offer accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from straight hotel-style with attentive room service to the self-catering option that is perfect for families. And while an island is necessarily remote – the dictionary assures us it is surrounded by sea and so “cut off” from the world – it doesn’t have to lack any of life’s comforts. Expect to find great shopping, cafes, bars, nightclubs and restaurants featuring the work of some of Australia’s best-known chefs using fresh ingredients from the mainland as well as the bounty from the sea. For many, the charm of an island holiday is not just the chance to collapse by the pool with a fruity drink or to lay face-down on the beach for days with a book and a bottle of sunscreen, not that

Norfolk Island. Image courtesy of Ken Duncan and Norfolk Island Tourism Thomson Bay south, Rottnest Island. Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

North Stradbroke Island. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland. there’s anything wrong with that. The opportunity to experience exciting new activities and challenge yourself rates highly on some holiday agendas, and islands are perfectly equipped to cater to the urge for annual adventure. On an island resort, you might find such activities as snorkelling, coral viewing from submersibles and boats, reef walking, cycling, sailing, yacht charter, jet skiing, parasailing, sailboarding, kayaking, canoeing, big game fishing and whale watching. You could learn to scuba dive, taking a course that lasts several days. It could lead you out of the shallows and into deeper, coral studded waters and, possibly, into an interest that will last a lifetime.

Feeding dolphins at Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort, Moreton Island. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland.

And, you could recover from your life-changing experience with a well-earned massage or an afternoon spent luxuriating at the health spa. That’s the thing about an island holiday. Remoteness needn’t necessarily mean that luxury and pampering are far away. At the top end of island life is the exclusive resort – the prized destination for celebrities and those seeking seclusion and privacy. Often, these islands cater to just a handful of guests who can simply roam as they choose, enjoying boutique accommodation, impeccable service and the freedom of life lived on a whim. For many of us, this is the holy grail of holidays, the extreme spoil we save for honeymoons and extra special occasions. But whether you’ve spent a fortune or a few dollars, whether you’ve packed scarves and warm socks or togs and thongs, whether your island is a short car-hop over a bridge from the mainland, an hour on gentle seas by ferry or a long way from home in a tiny aircraft, some island experiences are universal. Finding a tiny patch of sandy beach that seems to be here just for you. Beachcombing in a sheltered cove. Standing on the rocks above crashing waves and seeing sea… only sea all around. With 8,222 islands around Australia, there must be one waiting for the imprint of your bare feet.

Weekends for Two recommends the following great island resorts and experiences: • Sunset Waters on Macleay Island – Page 15 • Norfolk Island – Pages 32-37 • Pinetrees Resort Hotel on Lord Howe Island – Page 67

Rainforest Boardwalk, Central Station, Fraser Island. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland.

Queensland Cooktown

Bundaberg

Harvey Bay

Childers

Daintree Mossman PORT DOUGLAS

Palm Cove Cairns

Rainbow Beach

Orpheus Island Ingham

Gympie Townsville

NOOSA HEADS Ayr

Coolum Beach

Nambour

Maroochydore Mooloolaba

MONTVILLE Maleny

Charters Towers

Caloundra

Caboolture Dalby

BRISBANE Toowoomba

MACLEAY ISLAND

Ipswich Brookwater

Southport SURFERS PARADISE COOLANGATTA Springbrook

Tweed Heads

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destination – Gold Coast

Green and gold . .

a winning Queensland team while the Gold Coast is best known for its golden beaches, theme parks and nightlife there’s an equally spectacular geographical attraction which makes the area such a great holiday destination.

t’s the hinterland area which provides a magical backdrop to the coast. Here you’ll find farmland, vineyards, quaint villages and world renowned national parks.

Equally as varied as the scenery are the activities on offer. If you’re just looking to take it easy you can enjoy some great food at local restaurants or wine from the vineyards. The Gold Coast wine Trail highlights many of the best food and wine establishments.

Rainforest walk. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

There are also art and craft galleries and markets to explore. At Tamborine Mountain, for example, you’ll find the Gallery walk which features a cluster of galleries and craft shops which provide a wealth of diverse art and craft including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, porcelain, glass, jewellery, woodwork,

Luke’s Bluff, o’Reilly’s Plateau. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

Horse riding. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

fabrics and much more. From fine art to the frivolous, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets.

A great way to experience both parks is on the Gold Coast Hinterland Great walk.

Feeling a little more energetic? well again the options are many and varied and include horse riding, four wheel drive tour, hang gliding and abseiling.

The 54km walk took three years to complete and links the two via the Numinbah Valley. It includes sections ideal for short and day walks as well as the overall walk which takes around three days to complete.

If you love walking then you’re truly in your element thanks to the many national parks. Particularly popular with walkers are the Lamington and Springbrook National Parks which are part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia world Heritage Area. Both are home to the largest subtropical rainforest remnant in the world and ancient beech forests. waterfalls and stunning geological formations are other highlights. The wildlife includes rare and threatened animals like the Coxen’s fig-parrot, eastern bristlebird, Richmond birdwing butterfly and the plumed frogmouth.

Vineyard, mt tambourine Estate. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

The walk has been planned to ensure walkers appreciate the beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland and follows the path walked by the yugambeh traditional owners for thousands of years. what better way than to fully appreciate the beauty of this area than on foot?

Read about these great places to stay on the Gold Coast - Sunset Waters and Springbrook Lyrebird Retreaton the following pages

Coomera River on the Illinbah Circuit Binna Burra. Lamington National Park. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

Lamington National Park. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

tambourine Pottery. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

GoLD CoAst QLD

Enjoy the

island breezes

MACLEAy ISLAND

SUNSET wATERS suNsEt wAtERs Is tHE HoLIDAy HousE of DREAms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A mAstERPIECE purpose-built for guests to enjoy the tranquil coastal environment of macleay Island, nestled mid-way between bustling Brisbane and the Gold Coast. At sunset waters, all there is between you and the ever changing sea and sky is floor-to-ceiling glass. sliding doors and large shady decks are designed to bring the outside in, creating a relaxing environment. High raked ceilings, open plan design and ceiling fans circulate the cooling island breezes, while oriental furnishings and warm natural materials help create a calm, sub-tropical feel. Even the superbly-appointed kitchen has panoramic views of the gentle waters and surrounding bush. sunset waters is a house perfect for one or two couples. the upstairs master bedroom suite, overlooks moreton Bay and has sliding doors opening to a private

MOBILE: Call or text 0425 714 753 WEB: www.sunsetwaters.net EMAIL: stay@sunsetwaters.net TARIFF: from $325 for a 2 night weekend. weekendsfortwo.com.au

deck, an ideal place for lingering over holiday breakfast or sipping champagne under the stars. the second of three bedrooms also has a queen-size bed and deck, with sweeping views to the mainland. Awaken to the gently lapping water and watch the sea eagles soaring above. A walkway leads from sunset waters to the foreshore below. Visit Dalpurra Beach just 5 minutes drive away, fish the calm waters of Redland Bay or, as many guests have done previously, bring your own boat and explore the moreton Bay marine Park. most guests arrive in their own car by barge from Redland Bay. with just over 2,000 residents, macleay Island offers boat hire, golf & bowls clubs and a variety of places to dine, including the Blue Parrot Restaurant. However, on a beautiful night, nothing beats a barbeque on the deck of your beautiful holiday house, while the fishing boats pass by. 15

GoLD CoAst QLD

Arousing the senses,

inspiring the soul

GOLD COAST

SPRINGBROOK LyREBIRD RETREAT ImAGINE youRsELVEs DEEP wItHIN tHE RAINfoREst, ENJoyING luxurious accommodation in exceptionally beautiful surroundings with the opportunity to observe one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems at close range. this is a precious piece of paradise and the great news is that simply by staying here you are contributing to its protection and restoration. springbrook Lyrebird Retreat is now owned by the Australian Rainforest Conservation society Inc, a non-government, non-profit association devoted to conserving and restoring rainforest with all proceeds from the accommodation used towards restoration of the rainforest at springbrook. Here’s a place where you can have it all with accommodation in a choice of secluded and private, architect-designed, open plan wood cabins and cottages with generous open decks and large windows blending inner comforts with the great outdoors. spacious yet cosy, features include romantic fireplaces, luxurious double hydrotherapy massage spas, kitchens and tV/DVD/CD. you’ll wake to the iconic rainforest birdsong including crimson rosellas, lyrebirds, bowerbirds, whipbirds and green catbirds. you’ll follow walking tracks through cathedral forests to view grand waterfalls, crystal clear streams, canyons and all the wonders of springbrook National Park, with its rich plant life, butterflies, colourful fungi, pademelons, bandicoots, possums and other delightful rainforest residents.

PHONE: 07 5533 5555 WEB: www.lyrebirdspringbrook.com EMAIL: info@lyrebirdspringbrook.com TARIFF: from $220 night

In summer, enjoy the cool mountain climate – 10 degrees cooler than the coast; on winter evenings, relax in front of the fire, enjoy the spa and listen to the special and unique sounds of the rainforest nightlife. Amazingly, the Retreat is only 90 minutes from Brisbane and 40 minutes from the Gold Coast and is close to craft shops, galleries and other attractions as well as cafes and restaurants open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Noosa

’s Noosa many delights

first Point Noosa National Park. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland. Hastings street. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

There’s no better way to start the day than undertaking a morning walk along Noosa’s Main Beach into the national park.

he temperature is pleasant, the scenery inspiring and the `locals’ you meet often unforgettable.

There’s a chance you’ll see koalas and goannas and you’ll certainly hear and often see numerous bird species. The park is home to rare and threatened wildlife and flora such as the glossy black cockatoo, ground parrot, red goshawk, wallum froglet, swamp orchid and Christmas bell. Between July and November if you’re really lucky you may also see Humpback whales off the coast. A number of excellent walking tracks have been marked throughout the park. Some wind along the coast, others traverse rainforests and open woodlands and across wallum heath and sedgelands. Longer tracks lead out through open forest and heath, where a great variety of wildflowers are a highlight in spring. weekendsfortwo.com.au

An early morning or late afternoon walk is best during the warmer months, not only can temperatures rise rapidly during the day, but they are the best times for wildlife watching. And it gives you plenty of time to enjoy the many other delights of Noosa and surrounding areas. In many ways Noosa is the perfect example of how an area can perfectly cater for tourists and keep its natural appeal. 17

Hastings street Cafe scene, Noosa Heads. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

The national park plays a major role is ensuring this appeal as does the white sandy main beach. At the same time Noosa also has plenty to offer if you are looking for a cosmopolitan experience. Many top restaurateurs have set up home here offering a range of cuisines which take full advantage of delicious locally grown produce. Given the good weather, alfresco dining is all the go here. Shopping is another of the attractions. you’ll find an eclectic mix of souvenirs, clothing, art and craft and food in surrounds ranging from upmarket boutiques to atmosphere-filled markets. The Noosa River is also very much a part of the Noosa lifestyle. you’ll find numerous cruise boats and ferries based around Noosaville. Enjoy a glass of champagne on a sunset cruise or perhaps a relaxing lunch while cruising along the river, taking in the untouched bushland through to stunning mansions.

A five minute drive south of Noosa Heads is the expansive Sunshine Beach area, a serious wave location with an excellent surf club. The area incorporates some of Australia’s most innovative, architect-designed homes, and has its own unique and laid-back style. A further 10 minutes down the coast is the wide clean sweep of Peregian Beach with its calm water swimming, fishing and boating opportunities. On the western side of Peregian Beach is Lake weyba National Park, and Lake weyba itself, a large, shallow salt-water lake which is home to pelicans, prawns, and crabs, not to mention some fabulous fish, including whiting and flathead. you can pick up local produce and crafts at the regular Peregian community market, held on the second and fourth Sunday morning of each month. Following the markets you can soak up the sounds of a Sunday outdoor Peregian Originals concert where participating musicians are required to perform their own, original material. Another iconic market experience is the Eumundi Market held every wednesday and Saturday. Alongside everything from great entertainment to local arts and crafts, it also provides a great opportunity to sample and purchase some of the region’s offerings – from fresh strawberries through to spiced nuts, regional honey or homemade sauces and pickles. If your visit doesn’t coincide with either market, don’t despair there are plenty of other opportunities to experience the many gourmet delights of the area. And an early morning walk means you can enjoy them guilt free!

whale watching. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

Read about these great places to stay in Noosa Viridian Noosa Residences and Glen Eden Beach Resort - on the following pages

Noosa National Park. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

Beach patrol, main Beach. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

Noosa has long been known as a romantic destination to tie the knot or relax afterwards offering a range of options for a wedding to remember. With natural beauty in abundance, Noosa has an array of choices for the perfect backdrop whether it’s on the beach, along the Noosa River or to the more traditional ceremony at one of the larger resorts, holiday homes or boutique restaurants. In Noosa you will find every service that you need to make your wedding day a memorable one. From florists and caterers of fine food to hair and beauty specialists, photographers and wedding planners, everything is at your fingertips for that unforgettable day and of course the variety of accommodation at Noosa is endless. Noosa has fast become the ‘hot spot’ for weddings due to its diversity, laid back atmosphere and natural beauty. If you have already tossed the bouquet, the wedding day is over and you’re now ready to indulge in a little time for two, then look no further than Noosa for a setting that conjures up magic as well as romance.

Lachlan Burrell Photography

Honeymoons are traditionally the time when you relax and recuperate after the wedding. The idea is to enjoy yourself in a holiday environment before returning to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To make your planning easy a range of packages are available for the perfect Noosa honeymoon which can include your flights, accommodation, transfers, breakfasts, car hire and activities, all tailored to suit your wishes and budget. Imagine watching a picturesque sunset whilst sipping cocktails overlooking beautiful Laguna Bay. Dinner for two at one of Noosa’s famous restaurants or a romantic gondola ride along the Noosa River. The choices are endless. Noosa has so much to offer with the experts on hand to ensure the memories last a lifetime. And like so many others you’ll keep coming back, each year, time after time. For more information go to:

www.visitnoosa.com.au weekendsfortwo.com.au

NoosA QLD

all that Noosa has to

offer is here

NOOSA

VIRIDIAN NOOSA RESIDENCES wItH Its PERfECt BALANCE of styLE AND LoCAtIoN, tHE Viridian Noosa Residences capture the very essence of this world-famous seaside location. Nestled in bushland set against a backdrop of Noosa National Park, the Residences are surrounded by lush tropical greenery. wake to the sound of native birds and enjoy breakfast on your balcony with views of palms and of the sparkling waters of Noosa’s Laguna Bay. yet this haven of tranquillity, in the middle of the bush, is just a two-minute stroll from the elegant heart of Noosa. Here you’ll find the renowned Hastings street and its array of exclusive boutiques, relaxed cafes and magnificent restaurants featuring some of the nation’s most sought-after chefs using the freshest local ingredients. the Residences offer guests the choice of either two bedroom/two bathroom or three bedroom/three bathroom options on two levels. Designed to evoke the warm, relaxed atmosphere of an old-world banana plantation, each feels like your private beach house with interesting angles, warm wood tones, louvered windows and high ceilings to circulate the cooling sea breeze. Elegant furnishings and quality appliances complete the picture of luxury, space and freedom, with a beautiful kitchen, hi-fi, CD and DVD, Plasma or LCD televisions, air-conditioning and spa bath in each residence, as well as a heated pool for the use of guests. the property’s unique style, attention to detail and sympathy with its natural surroundings have been recognised with a collection of landscape architecture and design awards.

PHONE: 07 5474 6700 WEB: www.viridiannoosaresidences.com.au EMAIL: holiday@viridiannoosaresidences.com.au TARIFF: from $340/couple/night 20

It’s at this time of year that Noosa comes into its own as Australia’s most desirable holiday destination – temperate days, warm water, sophisticated shopping options and unparalleled dining and entertainment. And the Viridian Noosa Residences are perfectly placed for guests to enjoy all that unique Noosa has to offer. weekendsfortwo.com.au

PEREGIAN BEACH QLD

PEREGIAN BEACH

GLEN EDEN BEACH RESORT

Absolute beachfront

Imagine ... strolling down the path through the dunes to the beach from your self-contained townhouse with no busy roads to cross, just you and 16km of white sandy beach to access whenever you like. That’s the beauty of Glen Eden Beach Resort at Peregian Beach, just a 10-minute drive from Noosa on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, yet as relaxing as can be and the perfect place for a weekend away from all the stresses of everyday life. Recent refurbishments to the resort have contributed to Glen Eden’s charm and character with added emphasis on the extensive lawns and gardens, which create an added air of relaxation, complementing the beachfront location. The choice of accommodation is in one, two and three bedroom townhouses, each featuring private balconies and patios and spacious and fully equipped kitchens for self-catering. The townhouses all have TV/ DVD and direct dial phones while a wireless hotspot is available on site. The Premium Townhouses at Glen Eden Beach Resort, which have recently been renovated, have air conditioning and boast either ocean or pool vistas... .just perfect for your romantic weekend away for two.

PHONE: 07 5448 1955 FAX: 07 5448 1677 WEB: www.glenedenresort.com.au EMAIL: info@glenedenresort.com.au TARIFF: From $130 night.

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Glen Eden is so relaxing that you may very well want to stay and revel beside the pool, soaking up the sun whilst lazing on your sun lounger. Out and about, however, delightful Peregian Village on the doorstep is bursting with vibrant boutiques, galleries and eateries and you can also visit Noosa for it’s own famous brand of shopping and dining. The area isn’t called the Sunshine Coast for nothing and being such a beautiful location makes this an ideal place for a romantic and memorable weekend away or longer to relax and inwind. 21

destination – sunshine Coast

The all-weather

Sunshine Coast The Sunshine Coast’s hinterland is a magical area to visit no matter what the time of year but it’s in the warmer months that its many special features gel wonderfully well.

View from mountain View Road, maleny. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

t’s when the weather is hot that the region’s cooling breezes, refreshing rockpools, lakes and shady rainforests all come to the fore. It’s also often more pleasant to undertake other favoured activities, such as bushwalking, guided rainforest and birdwatching tours horseriding, canoeing and fishing, when the sun is shining. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great walk is fantastic to experience at any time of year. The 58 kilometre walk winds through the Blackall Range and traverses some of the most scenic areas of the hinterland including Maleny Forest Reserve, Kondalilla National Park and Mapleton Falls National Park. The walk can be accessed at various starting points and naturally you can walk for as short or as long a period as you want. A favoured winter activity of enjoying locally produced foods including avocados, pineapples and papaws as well as strawberries, vegetables and nuts in local restaurants is also an ideal summer experience. The only thing you’ll miss are the restaurant’s roaring fires! Visiting the region’s art and craft galleries is also a year round pursuit. It’s estimated the hinterland is home to over 400 artists and the many galleries scattered around the region’s atmospheric villages are great places to see their works. Providing the inspiration for the works of many of these artists is the natural beauty of the hinterland’s Glasshouse Mountains, a collection of 10 striking mountains which originated in the wake of volcanic eruptions eons ago. The volcanoes have eroded leaving only hardened plugs or rock spires. The Aboriginal dreaming story about these formations gives each of the mountains a name and character in a family, and tells a dramatic story of human relationships. Captain James Cook gave the area its unusual English name while sailing past, on his way up Australia’s east coast, in 1770. From a distance they reminded him of the glass-making furnaces of his home town in yorkshire. There are both sealed and unsealed roads through the Glass House Mountains National Park. Explore these roads and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views no matter what the time of year.

Read about Maleny Views Cottage Resort and Blue Summit Cottages - great places to stay in the Sunshine Coast- on the following pages.

Blue Summit Cottages Maleny, Sunshine Coast, QLD

Perched high on an escarpment, looking down the valleys and up to the beautiful mountain peaks, Blue Summit Cottages, rated 4 ½ star RACQ, will take your breath away! The three private Cottages for couples, all themed to the beautiful birdlife in the area, are designed to take in this peaceful view – from the sprawling King Size bed, the relaxing leather couch, the double massaging spa bath, the intimate dining area, and the large veranda with Weber BBQ . The Cottages are near new, immaculate, and with the best of appliances, including HD TV/DVD/ CD, telephone, gas log fire and air-con. Besides the luxurious inclusions such as large fluffy white towels and the best quality linen, there are also the choices – the wine, the gourmet breakfast hamper piled high with local produce, the DVD and CD selection, the complete kitchen for the food buffs, and the walking tracks for the energetic wanting more of that fresh mountain air. All that, plus what magical Maleny has to offer… shopping, art galleries, restaurants, winery, cheese factory, and more.

t : 07 54358410 e: info@bluesummitcottages.com.au w: www.bluesummitcottages.com.au

shopping at the Eumundi markets. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland.

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SUNSHINE COAST QLD

SUNSHINE COAST

Maleny Views Cottage Resort

Recipe for a

perfect getaway

Just imagine – less than an hour’s drive from Brisbane you can be unwinding in peaceful and luxurious surroundings high on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, enjoying lush landscape and breathtaking views of the Glasshouse Mountains or the Noosa coastline. Maleny Views Cottage Resort is the perfect base to explore the many wonders of the Hinterland region, with its natural beauty and excellent food. In fact, this is a place where you can definitely have it all as packages throughout the year can include the simple pleasures of a bed and breakfast option through to luxury retreats where you can enjoy champagne, chocolates, gourmet dinners and pampering massages, all in the privacy of your luxury room. With not one, but two award-winning restaurants on the doorstep and a winery just up the road, you will be in heaven with the food and wine options available close by. Maleny Views Cottage Resort accommodation options range from luxury cottages to beautifully appointed Penthouse Villas, exuding 5 star luxuries and with elevated views of the Glass House Mountains from the private balcony. For a weekend getaway with friends or family, the fully refurbished, self-contained three bedroom house offers ensuite, log fire and BBQ facilities to ensure you make the most of the great outdoors. For special occasions, your hosts, Terry and Simone Roche, pride themselves on a personalised approach with attention to every detail, whether you are looking to 24

host a small conference or you are searching for that perfect ceremony venue for your special day. With the option to do as much, or as little, as you wish, Maleny Views Cottage Resort is the perfect getaway for exploring and sightseeing with walking trails, wineries, art galleries, gourmet outlets, restaurants and cafés all within easy reach.

PHONE: 07 5494 3943 WEB: www.malenyviews.com.au EMAIL: info@malenyviews.com.au TARIFF: from $240.00/couple/night. weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Port Douglas

The many and varied attractions of

Port Douglas

four mile Beach. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland

An early morning walk on the beach, an afternoon exploring some of the oldest forests in the world and dinner in a world class restaurant – it’s easy to see why Port Douglas is so popular with holidaymakers.

nd it’s not just Australians who have discovered its many delights. walk down the streets and you’ll hear just as many international accents as Australian.

To visit Port Douglas today it’s hard to believe it was once a sleepy fishing village. There have been major developments in terms of infrastructure but fortunately the natural attractions, which attracted developers in the first place, are still just as appealing. After all it is the only place on Earth where two world Heritage listed jewels meet - the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest of Daintree and Cape Tribulation. If you just want to chill out with a good book or a slow beach stroll there’s nowhere better than Four Mile Beach. If relaxing amongst trees is more your thing then there’s the Daintree weekendsfortwo.com.au

wharf street. Image courtesy of tourism Queensland

National Park. It’s the oldest living rainforest on earth at approximately 140 million years. As well as offering stunning scenery, both the beach and forest are a mecca for the active especially given Port Douglas is the nearest mainland town to the Great Barrier Reef. There’s a reef tour available to suit every interest and you can snorkel or dive, or see the reef by glass bottom or semi-submersible boat. Fishing choices include game fishing on the reef and sports fishing in local estuaries and rivers. In Port Douglas itself there are numerous beach water sports, para flying and jet skiing. A similarly expansive range of options are on offer in the Daintree. A birdwatching boat trip up the river in the early morning is a great way to start the day while a wildlife tour will introduce you to the natural wonders of the rainforest including its animals and plant life. You can also learn about the indigenous history of the area on an Aboriginal Culture Tour and experience traditional music, dance, art and bush food. Another great way to see both land and sea is via helicopter- it really does provide a great overview. After a day exploring the natural environment it’s great to know there’s top class food awaiting your return. There are numerous great restaurants in Port Douglas, many offering as good a menu as you’ll find in capital city restaurants. Seafood has always been a specialty and continues to be so, however more and more restaurants are also taking full advantage of the locally grown produce. Naturally given its popularity as a tourist destination, shopping is another of Port Douglas’ attractions. There’s the full gambit, from laid back markets to great boutiques selling everything from Indigenous artwork to top European and Australian fashion labels. At the weekend, the Sunday Markets in the waterfront park at Macrossan and Wharf Streets are a real treat. You can also check out the wide variety of local produce including delicious, locally grown tropical fruits. What better way to spend a weekend than combining a little shopping with great sightseeing, natural beauty and great food?

Suspended bridge over Mossman Gorge. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland

Read about Executive Retreats, Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel, Ulysses Getaways and Thala Beach Lodge, great places to stay in the Port Douglas area on the following pages.

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Mossman Gorge. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland

Four Mile Beach. Image courtesy of Tourism Queensland

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tRoPICAL NoRtH QLD

when only the

best will do

PORT DOUGLAS

EXECUTIVE RETREATS fINDING EXACtLy tHE RIGHt PRoPERty foR youR RomANtIC getaway in far North tropical Queensland could be time consuming – especially when you want it to be absolutely right with everything taken care of so you can just relax and enjoy. fortunately, wendy and Hans van der wolf understand the needs of the discerning and have built their supremely successful business on delivering the very best accommodation matched with superlative service – and the many properties in their portfolio mean there’s something to suit everyone from beachside hideaways to breathtaking, drop-dead -gorgeous retreats. there are properties that are just made for two and some made to share with groups of friends for special occasions and celebrations. there are properties so private that one address is simply referred to as ‘somewhere in the rainforest’. there are sanctuaries where celebrities can holiday in peace and contemporary beachfront hideaways just made for romantic interludes and honeymoons. there are also high profile properties such as tranquilla, surrounded by a famous botanical garden and voted Australia’s Best Backyard by Jamie Durie. mali mali was voted Australia’s Best House, a fabulous hilltop designer dream with panoramic views from the Daintree Rainforest to the ocean.

PHONE: 07 4098 1418 WEB: www.executiveretreats.com.au EMAIL: info@executiveretreats.com.au TARIFF: from $350.00

Nothing is too much trouble for Executive Retreats whether it is arranging a private chef, grocery shopping or booking exotic spa therapies for you to enjoy in the privacy of your retreat. wendy van der wolf warns that it is very easy to become attached to the properties because they feel so welcoming and, with prime locations in and around Port Douglas, Newell Beach, mossman, trinity Beach, oak Beach and all over the far North, you can be sure you will find a property to suit every occasion. weekendsfortwo.com.au

tRoPICAL NoRtH QLD

PORT DOUGLAS

PENINSULA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

sshh – don’t tell a soul oNCE you DIsCoVER tHIs DIstINCtIVE BoutIQuE HotEL wItH Its stunning location, you will never look at anywhere else to stay. this is the only property with hotel services actually on the famous four mile Beach at Port Douglas, yet it is still only a two-minute walk to the very heart of town for the very best of both worlds. the hotel has 34 suites, 28 facing the Coral sea, and all designed for luxurious yet relaxed living. the native timber doors slide shut to separate the bedroom from the living area, ensuite bathrooms have twin bath and separate shower and there’s a self-contained kitchen for self-catering when you feel in the mood. this may not be too often, however, as the Port Douglas Peninsula’s inhouse Hi tide is the only licensed restaurant over looking four mile Beach and specialising in modern Australian cuisine with seasonal produce. the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming and speciality themes include a seafood night on thursdays. the hotel bar is a place to relax over a glass of wine, boutique beer or a cocktail.

PHONE: 07 4099 9100 WEB: www.peninsulahotel.com.au EMAIL: res@peninsulahotel.com.au TARIFF: From $340/couple/night including complimentary return transfer from Cairns Airport, full buffet breakfast plus daily maid service. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Designed for intimate retreats, the setting is very soothing with the beach on one hand and the landscaped tropical gardens and terraces on the other with a freshwater swimming pool, spa and waterfall grotto. Private and exclusive, the Port Douglas Peninsula is also the perfect location for a tropical wedding and/or honeymoon with idyllic packages available. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff here and the rates can include transfers from Cairns should you wish – with the best of Port Douglas on the doorstep you don’t actually need a car if you don’t plan to do much more than relax, swim, shop, dine and enjoy some of the area’s many marine activities which are all readily accessible from the hotel. 29

TROPICAL NORTH QLD

PORT DOUGLAS

ULYSSES GETAWAYS

exclusive

hideaway destinations

Specialising in prestige accommodation and personalised service, Ulysses Getaways offers a fabulous portfolio of properties in and around Port Douglas, from private retreats with panoramic ocean views to luxury absolute beachfront villas at nearby “insider” locations like magnificent Oak Beach. Exclusive destinations in themselves, each hideaway is different with something to suit everyone from small and beautiful to absolutely fabulous. The Villa Empat Puluh Dua, for example, boasts seven suites with views over the Coral Sea. The suites are individually designed to reflect a classic Asian feel with beautiful designer guild fabrics and Grange furniture. There are two king and five queen bedrooms and the house has seven bathrooms and two powder rooms. Spacious sun decks surround a heated, saltwater infinity edge pool providing the perfect setting for total relaxation, The ground floor has a private sitting and entertainment area with kitchenette, three bedrooms all with ensuites and access to a private balcony which runs the full length of the house, overlooking the pool and with views beyond. Of course the Villa has a gourmet kitchen as well as two BBQ’s for easy entertaining.

PHONE: 07 40991799 WEB: www.beachvillas.com.au EMAIL: info@beachvillas.com.au TARIFF: from $400 night.

For absolute beach front, Ocean’s Edge is a contemporary threebedroom house on Oak Beach, a majestic tropical home featuring cool white walls contrasting with dark stained floors and with picture windows and cathedral ceilings to draw in natural light and sea breezes. As well as offering a range of utterly desirable properties, Ulysses Getaways puts its long experience and intimate local knowledge at your disposal arranging all your needs such as fully catered in-house dinner parties with a renowned local chef, in-house massage, car hire, diving, fishing and all the special touches to make your dream tropical holiday a reality. weekendsfortwo.com.au

tRoPICAL NoRtH QLD

romantic, secluded

eco-environment

PORT DOUGLAS

THALA BEACH LODGE NoRtH of CAIRNs, Just 16 KILomEtREs soutH of PoRt DouGLAs, thala Beach Lodge enjoys an exquisite setting on a private peninsula above the Coral sea. surrounded by world Heritage listed coastline and the Great Barrier Reef marine Park and with an Advanced Ecotourism certification, thala offers a wonderful coastal resort experience with private, secluded beaches and six different natural habitats including rainforest, woodland and a coconut plantation. the resort owes its environment to Rob and oonagh Prettejohn who purchased the property in the 1970’s. At that time only 45 acres of original forest remained so the couple planted many thousands of indigenous plants to rehabilitate the area. the resort is built out of sustainable materials in a low impact style and the beautifully appointed timber and granite bungalows blend beautifully with the environment. Jungle walk and Eucalypt Bungalows have up-close rainforest views. Coral sea Bungalows have spectacular ocean views and, perched on the headland, overlooking the secluded beach, the luxurious, private and romantic sandpiper suite has a large private verandah, lounge and spacious bedroom. Guests enjoy world class dining in a beautiful setting with uninterrupted views of the ocean and coastline, as they say at thala, ‘experience the tastes of the tropics

WIN weekendsfortwo.com.au

while being surrounded by its splendour’. the masked Plover bar, also with great views overlooking the main free-form rock pool and coast, is just the place for a cocktail before dinner. there are many wonderful experiences available including bird watching (complimentary), nature walks (complimentary), star gazing (complimentary), sea kayaking, yoga and indulging at the health spa. Experts are on hand to introduce you to the environment as the different natural habitats attract a variety of wildlife including the rare Black and white striped Possum, musky Rat Kangaroo and Red Eyed Green tree frog who can be heard calling from october to february.

PHONE: 07 4098 5700 WEB: www.thala.com EMAIL: reservations@thalabeach.com.au TARIFF from $125/person/night

4 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO AT THALA BEACH LODGE.

SIMPLY SUBSCRIBE TO WEEKENDS FOR TWO TO GO INTO THE DRAW. SEE PAGE 1 FOR DETAILS

destination – Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island’s a

true natural gem

Norfolk Island is a true island gem reports Jenny Burns It had been seven years since my last visit to Norfolk Island and I was a little worried. Would it still be the island paradise I fell in love with on past visits or would Norfolk have succumbed to the ever present march of progress? Within minutes of leaving the airport terminal I knew little had changed. The roads and scenery still looked the same and it wasn’t long until we came across a herd of cows wandering along the road side without a care in the world. It was pleasing to see cattle and horses still had right of way on Norfolk’s roads. That’s not to say I didn’t notice some changes- but they were all for the best. There were a few more grids to control the movement of livestock! There were also more restaurants (there are now said to be over 35) and the several we visited served up some fantastic dishes featuring locally grown produce. New accommodation has also come on line but it’s very low key. Fortunately Norfolk hasn’t fallen for any massive developments and remains a true natural island gem. Nowhere is this more obvious than at Kingston. Despite this being the island’s main attraction it’s as picturesque as ever, thanks to its old sandstone buildings and ruins, quaint houses, rich green fields, fat cows, Norfolk’s famous pine trees and the blue waters of the Pacific which dominate the vista. Spend some time exploring here and you’ll understand why this area has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s part of the Australian Government’s nomination of 11 convict sites known as Australian Convict Sites. Norfolk is nominated due to its outstanding significance to the nation as a convict settlement spanning the era of transportation to eastern Australia between 1788 and 1855. The submission also highlights its pre and post convict history. While Norfolk is best known for its penal and Pitcairn history, archeological evidence suggests that over 1000 years ago Norfolk was settled by Polynesian people, sailing the Pacific, and living on the island prior to it being discovered by Captain Cook. 32

Image courtesy of Ken Duncan and Norfolk Island Tourism.

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Image courtesy of Ken Duncan and Norfolk Island Tourism. The first officially documented settlement occurred on March 6 1788 when Phillip Gidley King arrived and began the first European settlement. There were seven free men, nine male and six female convicts with six month’s provisions. The group set about clearing the land, building houses, sowing crops and husbanding livestock. When King finally departed Norfolk Island in 1796 he reported a population of 887, of whom many were free and land holders. This settlement closed in 1814. In 1825 Captain Richard Turton established what was to be Britain’s harshest Penal Settlement. Floggings, hangings and torture were part of every day life. In 1855 this settlement was disbanded and many of the convicts were shipped off to Tasmania. It’s the remnants of this second settlement at Kingston which are Norfolk’s major tourist attraction. A huge amount of effort and capital has gone into restoring many of the older buildings. However the ruins seem more moving, especially when you hear what the convicts went through. It’s easy to see why many locals are convinced the buildings in Kingston are haunted. There’s even said to be a ghost at the 1828 built Government House. Government House is one of many of the historical buildings used by Government officials. Many are located in Quality Row, a single line of Georgian houses built between 1832 and 1847,originally used as residences by military and civil officers and clergymen. The Norfolk Island Assembly chamber building is the Old Military Barracks constructed between 1829 and 1834. The new military barracks built in 1837 now provides offices for the Norfolk Island Administration and the Office of the Administrator.

Image courtesy of Norfolk Island Tourism.

The most moving location on the island would have to be the cemetery. It was set aside for burials after the 1825 occupation. As in many nineteenth century graveyards, the headstones give detailed evidence of the convict revolts and the lifestyles and causes of death of the Island’s early inhabitants. It’s easy to spend hours here reading some of the truly tragic stories the

Image courtesy of Ken Duncan and Norfolk Island Tourism.

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THE WORLD OF

NORFOLK Small world! No small wonder!

Image courtesy of Norfolk Island Tourism.

Special Events Jazz in the Pines Dec 2009 Opera in Paradise February 2010 Country Music May 2010

Image courtesy of Norfolk Island Tourism.

Call NOW for our colour brochure!

Specialising EXCLUSIVELY in LORD HOWE ISLAND & NORFOLK ISLAND Freecall 1800 671 546

7 days

www.oxleytravel.com.au 34

Image courtesy of Ken Duncan and Norfolk Island Tourism.

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headstones tell. At the same time the cemetery must rate as one of the world’s most picturesque and calming resting places thanks to its ocean backdrop. While old buildings are all that remain of Norfolk’s convict history, the current Norfolk Island phone book is the perfect reminder of the island’s more recent history. In 1856 descendents of Fletcher Christian and other mutineers on the ship the Bounty moved from Pitcairn Island to Norfolk after their request to the British Government for more land. Pitcairn descendents are still in force on the island as the number of Adams, Buffetts, Christians, McCoys and Quintals listed in the phone book reveals. The Pitcairners and other locals are very proud of their heritage and independence. They point out that while Norfolk is administered by Australia, it elects its own Parliament and has its own stamps. The number of people who can live on the island is strictly controlled (the current population is around 2000 to ensure it doesn’t become overcrowded). As locals explain the island, which is eight by five kilometres, only covers 3455 hectares. A third of those hectares are subtropical rainforest preserved within national parks and reserves. Needless to say bushwalking, mountain biking and birdwatching are popular pastimes with visitors and locals alike. Tracks wind through lush palm forests, stands of Norfolk Island pine and along the coastal fringe. You can even walk beneath the tallest tree ferns on earth. Great views are also on offer from Mt Pitt and Mt Bates, the two highest points on the island. The island is also a mecca for horse-riders while it’s said golf doesn’t get more picturesque than playing on the island’s nine-hole Kingston golf course complete with a heritage Georgian clubhouse. Garden lovers are also in their element on Norfolk thanks to its climate and location. Several very impressive gardens are open to the public. Equally as popular with locals as well as visitors are the waters off Norfolk Island. Exploring unspoilt coral reefs and colourful marine life, surfing and fishing are amongst the pastimes on offer. You can join a guided scuba diving trip to world class dive sites or sea kayak around rugged headlands into hidden coves. Given the lack of development on the island there are also many pristine beaches which are ideal places to reflect on the beauty and history that make Norfolk Island such a fascinating destination.

*Norfolk Island can be accessed via flights from Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane, Melbourne and Auckland. There are over 60 properties on the island ranging from hotels and luxury cottages to self contained units and budget apartments. All visitors arriving on the Island must have pre-booked accommodation or be staying with friends or relatives to be able to enter Norfolk Island. There is no public transport but a taxi service is available and a number of guided tours are on offer. A rental car is the most practical way to get around the island.

Governor’s Lodge Resort Hotel offers Norfolk

Island’s most exclusive fully serviced cottages set in wonderfully landscaped sub-tropical gardens incorporating majestic Norfolk Pines. The 55 individual one bedroom lodges provide privacy and comfort in tranquil surrounds. Your stay will be enhanced by our signature fully licensed, fine dining Governor’s Restaurant in the beautifully restored Bailey’s homestead. Our all day Cafe located in the outdoor gardens marquee provides a variety of dining options. Conferences & weddings catered for in the fully equipped conference facility. Centrally located to the shopping centre and tourist attractions Governor’s Lodge Resort presents affordable luxury with attentive service.

ph: 1300 665 737 Ex Brisbane from Ex Newcastle from Ex Sydney from Ex Melbourne from

$1855 $1889 $1915 $2079

Inclusions: ● Return economy airfare flying with Norfolk Air ● Return airport transfers ● 7 nights accommodation at Governor’s Lodge Resort Hotel

Bonuses: ● Buffet breakfast daily ● 2 feature dinners ● 1 bottle of champagne and chocolates in room on arrival ● Meet & greet invitation including punch & nibbles on Tuesday plus complimentary sunset cocktail ● 7 day car hire* ● Half day tour

Booking conditions: Prices are per person twin share, inclusive of taxes and subject to availability. Valid for sale to 28 Feb 10 and for travel 01 Oct 09 to 31 Mar 10. Black out dates may apply. Prices include 7 day car hire insurance of $15 per day which is payable direct on Norfolk Island. *Petrol is payable direct. Full payment is due within 7 days of booking. All costs are in Australian dollars and correct on 31 Jul 09. Costs are subject to change without notice should currency fluctuates, taxes increase or tariff alter. Conditions, amendment and cancellation fees apply. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Prices do not include charges collected directly by third parties. ABN 84 003 237 296 Lic: TAG252

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VISIT THE WORLD OF NORFOLK ~ 29ยบ SOUTH PACIFIC www.theworldofnorfolk.com.au

NI_Wkends_DPS Ad_FINAL AW.indd 1

19/08/09 4:19 PM

New South Wales UPPER CRYSTAL CREEK MURWILLUMBAH Queensland Lismore

Bourke

Lismore Byron Bay

Glen Innes

COFFS HARBOUR

COFFS HARBOUR SCOTTS HEAD Tamworth PORT MACQUARIE

TAREE

TAMWORTH

TAREE

DIAMOND BEACH Forster Vacy SHOAL BAY

POKOLBIN Cedar Creek

PORT MACQUARIE

NEWCASTLE

Patterson

TAREE

Dubbo

NEWCASTLE Belmont

BROOKLYN

THE ENTRANCE BLUE BAY TERRIGAL KILLCARE

NEWCASTLE

Orange

Sydney

Bathurst

CENTRAL COAST

Katoomba

SYDNEY Griffith

Young

STANWELL TOPS Goulburn

Wagga Wagga Sydney Wollongong

Young MOSS VALE

Gundagai CANBERRA ACT

Kiama

CAMBEWARRA MOUNTAIN

BERRY HUSKISSON

MOLLYMOOK ULLADULLA BAWLEY POINT

Yarramulla

Gosford

CANBERRA BATEMANS BAY

Lithgow LAKE LYELL

KURRAJONG HEIGHTS

MEDLOW BATH LEURA

Cooma

Palm Beach

SPRINGWOOD WENTWORTH FALLS SYDNEY

Double Bay

Bega

Cooma Bega

Orange BATHURST Lithgow

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destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Blue Mountains Mt Hay, Blue Mountains. Image courtesy of Chris Jones, Tourism New South Wales

High on fresh air in the

Blue Mountains Cafe, Blue Mountains. Image courtesy of Tony yeates, Tourism New South Wales

The Blue Mountainsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; misty mornings, shimmering blue days, romantic sunsets and fresh mountain air offer a welcome respite from the heat of the coast during the spring and summer. The special brand of hospitality on offer also means you can relax and concentrate on taking time out together.

he combination of awesome natural attractions, fabulous places to stay, quality dining and shopping is irresistible and the towns and villages each have their own character which makes them fun to explore. Shopping in the mountains is fun and eclectic as you might expect with gifts, arts and crafts, antiques and specialty shops selling a very wide range of merchandise. The Australian Alpaca Centre retail shop in Leura, for example, sells throws, rugs and garments made from silky soft Alpaca fibre and, if you have Scottish or Irish heritage, drop into Monarch of the Glen at Springwood to check out your tartan and pick up pewter jewellery. Other places to check out jewellery include Jewel Blue Mountains Gallery at Blackheath and Cicada Symphony at Wentworth Falls. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Into collectibles? You’ll find many stores selling antiques and bric-a-brac. Check out the teapots at Bygone Beautys, Leura – and, if your friends and family have lost their sense of humour recently in the world recession, Weirder The Better in Katoomba could be the place to find a gift for them from juggling gear to magic tricks!

Shopping, Leura. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales Three Sisters, Blue Mountains. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales

The Blue Mountains is a favourite location for artists with many galleries including The Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum Shop at Faulconbridge, The Falls Gallery at Wentworth Falls and Katoomba Fine Art & The Gallery Restaurant where you’ll find landscape paintings, glassware, sculptures and crafts from a range of contemporary artists. The area is just made for activities so consider mountain bike riding, bush-walking trails, horse riding or more extreme experiences such as rock climbing, canyoning and abseiling. Touring to discover the region is easy following the award-winning Greater Blue Mountains Drive with 18 Discovery Trails around this World Heritage listed natural paradise. The drives are a way to make sure you discover the very best of the mountains and all its secrets and vary in length so you can go as you please. Follow the 36 kilometre(one way) cliff-hugging ‘edge-of-the-world’ Blue Mountains Drive to discover lookouts such as the Three Sisters, picnic areas, walking tracks, galleries and cafes or the 92 kilometre(one way) Blackheath and Megalong Drive through plateau and valley environments with lookouts, picnic sites and walks including Govetts Leap, the NPWS Heritage Centre, Pulpit Rock, Evans Lookout, Hargraves Lookout, Blackheath Glen and the lovely Megalong Valley. Out and about you’ll find tempting cafes, food stores and restaurants to suit every taste and pocket, many offering fine regional produce. The Mountains has quite a thing about chocolate – check out the Paragon Café at Katoomba, Blue Mountains Chocolate at Katoomba or Café Josophan’s in Leura whose chocolatiere, Jodie Van Der Velden, recently won the Australian 2009 Callebaut Chocolate Dessert Competition.

Alison Plummer Shopping Katoomba. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales Kanangra Falls, Blue Mountains. Image courtesy of Chris Jones, Tourism New South Wales

Read about Eagle View Escape and Falls Mountain Retreat great places to stay in the Blue Mountains on the following pages.

BLUE MOUNTAINS NSW

WENTWORTH FALLS

FALLS MOUNTAIN RETREAT

Chic and contemporary

escape

PHONE: 02 4757 8826 FAX: 02 4757 8802 WEB: fallsmountainretreat.com. au/we42 EMAIL: we42@ fallsmountainretreat.com.au TARIFF: from $180/couple/night midweek

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The Blue Mountains is a spectacular summer escape – with its lush fern gullies to enjoy on warm balmy days, fresh mountain air and cool summer nights. If you’re looking for something chic and contemporary, then Falls Mountain Retreat is the ideal hideaway.

or perhaps pop your favourite CD on the stereo system.

This luxury haven has all the style you’d expect from a hip city hotel, but it’s located instead amongst four acres of peaceful and secluded gardens in Wentworth Falls.

All of the apartments have fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, with modern stainless steel appliances.

The architect-designed retreat is unique to the Blue Mountains, offering an intimate luxurious escape, with a cool, contemporary atmosphere. Peace and privacy are paramount at this boutique property. There are four styles of accommodation ranging from loft studio apartments with high ceilings and extensive garden, parkland or forest views through to the dazzling one and twobedroom apartments.

Everything has been thought of at this AAA rated 4½ star stylish retreat, from reverse cycle air-conditioning to the deep and spacious hydrotherapy two-person spa bath.

Falls Mountain Retreat is designed to embrace its exclusive location. Bordered by towering trees, historic parklands and quiet country laneways, the retreat is just a 200 metre stroll to the National Park where visitors can explore spectacular walking tracks, waterfalls and scenic lookouts.

When you’re able to drag yourself away from your superb surrounds, Falls Mountain Retreat is just a few minutes from the relaxed Wentworth Falls village Step out onto your own private balcony or with its selection of casual restaurants and courtyard to enjoy the surrounds, or wind great cafes, or a short drive to the diverse down in front of the television with a DVD dining available in Leura and Katoomba. 41

BLue MouNTAINS NSW

A Hideaway for lovers

LAKE LYELL

EAGLE VIEW ESCAPE DreAMINg oF A WeeKeND AWAy WITH THe oNe you LoVe IN PrIVATe AND very relaxing surroundings? eagle View escape, West of the Blue Mountains has an enviable reputation for making guests feel special and instantly at home. Just think, in under three hours from Sydney you could be luxuriating in the spa, unwinding after a long week and watching a movie together on a flat screen TV, now a feature of every room. A large selection of DVDs is available from the eagle View reception. In the mood for romance, you’ll find the Lake View Spa Suites a very enticing setting – built into the mountainside, they are accessed through a tunnel twinkling with lights. The stunningly appointed executive Spa Suites have deluxe double spas with massage jets, queen beds and private balconies overlooking the

PHONE: 1300 851 829 FAX: 02 6355 6311 EMAIL: enquiries@eagleview.com.au WEBSITE: www.eagleview.com.au TARIFF: from $200/couple/night. 42

Cox’s river. or maybe you will choose a Wilderness Spa Cabin privately set amongst the eucalyptus trees. In keeping with the relaxed atmosphere, the In room Dining menu means you can spend your time enjoying an intimate dinner together. our Chef prepares modern Australian dishes using local produce where possible and with firm favourites on the menu such as lamb shanks slow cooked in red wine with rosemary and the tantalising and delicious desserts. eagle View escape has its own outdoor hydrotherapy spa and an allweather tennis court as well as 110 acres to explore with walks to Lake Lyell. The famous Jenolan Caves is a short drive away or enjoy lunch at a nearby country pub. Planning to stay two nights? Check out the website for a range of romantic packages. weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Central West

Orange and Bathurst

tempt the tastebuds

t was the promise of `a lemon tart to remember’ that led me to Bathurst’s Legall Patisserie Café.

Owner Philippe Legall promised me a taste sensation like nothing I had experienced before. A sensation that was infamous throughout central New South Wales. It was a big call but fortunately one that exceeded expectations, best described as a citric liaison to remember!

Borrodell Vineyard, orange. Image courtesy of Alf Manciagli.

It was one of many epicurean delights I experienced that weekend. Lunch at the Union Bank Bar and Wine Store in Orange was an equally memorable experience.

destination – Central West It’s easy to see why both towns have become a wine and food lover’s pilgrimage. Historically established market gardens have for many years provided fine food for the people of Sydney and beyond. Given this exceptional food, together with great wine, it’s only natural that a sophisticated food scene would develop. Fortunately there are many opportunities to experience this great food and wine, both on an impromptu visit or during specially organised celebrations. In Orange, for example there are such delights as Wine Week scheduled between October 16 and 25. Events include gourmet cheese tasting, off road winery tours and local wine tastings. Slow Summer, scheduled from February 5 to 14, promotes the wonderful art of slow cooking. One of the most popular events occurs in Food Week, scheduled in April 2010. This festival provides local producers the chance to showcase their many delights.

Bathurst. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales.

At the same time both regions offer more than just epicurean delights. Orange is known as Australia’s Colour City as a result of its four distinct seasons. These colours are showcased through the city’s magical parks and gardens which include Cook and Robertson Parks and the Botanic Gardens. Historical buildings and streetscapes, theatres and cosmopolitan cafes and restaurants such as Legall’s are other fantastic attractions. Naturally given all it offers visitors there are plenty of accommodation options on offer. Bathurst is one of Australia’s oldest inland settlements, surrounded by historic gold rush towns and many fine buildings reflecting its original status. There’s also a fine Regional Art Gallery, famous for its Lloyd Rees collection which includes his famous painting, May Morning No. 2, 1981. And of course there’s the Mount Panorama Circuit, home to one of Australia’s best known motor races. There is little doubt that I will return to the region with friends. The memory of my Bathurst taste sensation still lingers. Who knows, after tasting the heady wines of region, I may be inspired to seek out another citric liaison!

Larry Jamieson

Read more about Orange and Bishop’s Court, a great place to stay in Bathurst, on the following pages. Machattie Park, Bathurst. Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales. Vineyard, Mayfield. Image courtesy of Alf Manciagli.

Union Bank Wine Bar and Wine Store, Orange. Image courtesy of Alf Manciagli.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

BATHurST NSW

Grand yet intimate

BATHURST

BISHOPS COURT ESTATE VIBrANT yeT uTTerLy reLAxINg, grAND yeT INTIMATe, – THe ACCoLADeS IN the Bishop’s Court guest book speak for themselves, indicating an experience that goes far beyond the norm. So what makes this place so special? The setting is undeniably unique and romantic, an historic manor house surrounded by lovely gardens transformed into a boutique hotel. The deluxe guestrooms are gorgeous all six completely different in décor, richly furnished and with ensuites or marble bathrooms. But that is just the beginning as previous guests know only too well. Hosts Christine Le Fevre and David Swan take the experience to higher levels through absolute attention to detail and are dedicated to the art of hospitality making you feel utterly pampered and special. Dining is a large part of the recipe for success as Christine is an avid

PHONE: 02 6332 4447 FAX: 02 6334 4445 WEB: www.bishopscourtestate.com.au EMAIL: info@bishopscourtestate.com.au TARIFF: from $290/couple/night, including gourmet breakfast and complimentary evening aperitif. Weekend packages from $850/couple including Friday night supper, Saturday gourmet dinner and a private wine tasting at a local vineyard. weekendsfortwo.com.au

devotee of regional produce with fresh local ingredients on the menus and used in the classes at the property’s Delizioso Cooking School. Bishop’s Court also imbues dining with its special brand of hospitality with any number of places for private dinners and celebrations such as the gorgeous gardens which are a lovely setting for a long summer luncheon, a summer evening party or romantic dinner by moonlight. There’s a balcony where you can dine overlooking the rose-covered portico of the chapel which itself is a fabulous environment for special occasions either with friends or for an exceptionally romantic dinner for two. Packages are a way to make the most of the experience and Bishop’s Court has many options and can also design them especially for you. The tempting range of options includes Farmers Market, gourmet Discovery and Cooking With Style packages, there’s a rejuvenation package or you might choose activities such as the golf, Photography or Artists experiences. 45

Orange and the surrounding areas have many things to see and do & each year between the months of October 2009 & April 2010 once again you can join us in celebrating ‘Taste Orange’ & experience Wine Week, Spring Garden Festival, Slow Summer & of course Food Week. Go to the Events section of our website to see what’s on in Orange & when so that you can plan your visit accordingly. If you live in Orange you can see what’s on all year round & with beautiful Botanic Gardens, Parks, three golf courses & over 30 cellar doors, there is something for everyone.

Upcoming Events Wine Week 16-25th October 2009 All week events from gourmet cheese tasting, off road winery tours, arts, local wine tasting & of course Dining room @ Duntryleague where you can celebrate ‘by the glass’ from a local wine list as well as cuisine within heritage listed Duntryleague - a unique Orange dining experience.

displays, entertainment and talks. Visit a gallery, or simply just enjoy a spring lunch in one of the beautiful parks or stroll around the Farmers Market. Slow Summer 5-14th February 2010 Designed to provide fun and relaxation. Focusing on leisure, friends and family, nature and the environment - you will find nearly 50 activities, most are free or inexpensive.

Orange Blossoms Garden Festival

FOOD Week

September – November 2009

9-18 April 2010

From the beginning of September till the end of November, ‘Orange Blossoms Garden Festival’ has a range of shows, markets, expos,

Each Autumn Orange hosts FOOD Week, which is a chance for local producers to showcase their produce.

For more information visit www.visitorange.com.au or call 1800 069 466

destination – Hawkesbury

The watery delights of the

Hawkesbury

Hawkesbury river. Image courtesy of Jann Tuxford, Tourism New South Wales West Heads Lookout, Commodore Heights, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Image courtesy of Tony yeates, Tourism New South Wales

Wiseman’s Pub. Image courtesy of Paul Blackmore, Tourism New South Wales

The Hawkesbury region is spectacular no matter what the time of year. But it’s during the warmer months that this region, less than an hour’s drive from Sydney, really comes into its own. With 70 per cent of the area being national park there’s no better way to spend a day or two exploring the region’s many natural attractions by foot or by boat under a warming sun. This is especially true in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. It’s within this park that the Hawkesbury River meets the sea. As a result you’ll find a tight cluster of winding creeks, sheltered beaches, hidden coves and wide expanses of deep blue water. The park is also known for its rich Aboriginal history with numerous carvings a feature. The Hawkesbury River is navigable for over 100 kilometres with 1100 kilometres of foreshore fringe. You could cruise and explore these waters for weeks and still not see it all. weekendsfortwo.com.au

At the same time the region’s 17 small towns and villages offer a range of shops and galleries selling locally made delights. There are also some great markets. The Hawkesbury has been the food basket for Sydney since colonial times. The need for viable farming land to feed the rapidly growing Sydney community led to the discovery and the settlement of the Hawkesbury Valley region. Today it’s known for its quality apples, stone fruits, oranges, honey and vegetables - many of them grown organically. For seafood lovers the Hawkesbury is true heaven, with oysters a specialty. Brooklyn is an ideal departure point to explore the Hawkesbury River’s waterways. It’s from here you can take a tour or hire a boat and explore islands, swim at secluded sandy beaches or fish for your own seafood. What better way to spend a relaxing few days?

Read about Boathouse on Hawkesbury, a great place to stay in the Hawkesbury region, on the next page.

HAWKeSBury regIoN NSW

101 places to enjoy a sip of champagne

LITTLE WOBBY BEACH

BOAT HOUSE ON HAWKESBURY

THe SeCreT IS ouT. PeoPLe IN THe KNoW HAVe BeeN TryINg To KeeP THIS luxuriously appointed property on the Hawkesbury river a secret for years to no avail. If you’re seeking a spectacular location like no other for a weekend away with a group of friends or for a small corporate event or even the perfect romantic location for a private wedding then look no longer, The Boat House is the perfect setting offering surprises at every turn. Luxuriously and elegantly appointed, with a touch of Balinese theming, the Boat House is just one hour’s drive north of Sydney but a million miles from care. Accessible only by water – by boat, water taxi or seaplane – you’ll be in heaven in moments. Boasting its own jetty with deep water frontage, the Boat House is well concealed from surrounding properties behind lush foliage of tropical plants. The tri-level residence has six beautifully appointed guest suites each with queen size bed, a two-person spa, ensuite and either a private courtyard, deck or panoramic views to enjoy. There are many areas for a group to gather or for couples to enjoy a private moment, a deux. entertain by the heated indoor swimming pool, or take the interior lift to the expansive rooftop entertaining area, complete with large Jacuzzi to kick back and relax.

PHONE: 02 9985 8505 WEB: www.boathouseonhawkesbury.com.au EMAIL: boathouse@ozemail.com.au TARIFF: From $600/room/weekend 48

The fully equipped kitchen is always stocked with a selection of gourmet condiments and a variety of coffees and teas. If you’re not in the mood for cooking, sumptuous seafood banquets can be delivered fresh to your table. A games area with full size billiard table or well-stocked library of novels and current magazines are available if the weather is inclement. For the more adventurous, exploring the many bushwalks to nearby secluded beaches will be an enjoyable pastime. Boating enthusiasts will find the Boat House is the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful Hawkesbury river and its myriad small waterways or sail yourself to a choice of nearby internationally acclaimed restaurants. Smaller parties of 1-2 couples are welcome mid-week and all special requests will be met by prior arrangement with the owner. So toss city stress for the peace and serenity of the Hawkesbury river and enjoy a stay at the spectacular Boat House ….you’ll never want to leave. weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Central Coast

Resor t repor t North of Sydney lies an area of beaches, headlands and inlets from the peninsula of the Northern Beaches famous for areas including Palm Beach, to the waterways of the Hawkesbury and the Central Coast.

Bouddi National Park. Image courtesy of Nick rains, Tourism New South Wales Barrenjoey Headland, Palm Beach. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales

errigal has long been a favourite on the Central Coast with its seaside village atmosphere and resort style boutiques and shopping along the esplanade. This is a place to make time for shopping, selecting clothing, jewellery, shoes, bags and eclectic arts and crafts. There are also many major shopping complexes in the area if you feel in the mood as well as specialist outlets such as the St Fiacre Distillery (formerly the site of The Fragrant Gardens) between Erina and Terrigal Beach, a custom-built distillery specialising in Australian Native Liqueurs and Vodka. The selection includes Lemon Myrtle Liqueur, Aniseed Myrtle Liqueur, Mountain Pepperberry Liqueur and Wild Lime Liqueur. The St Fiacre Cafe is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am – 5pm and you can visit the Herb Garden and the new Bush Food Garden. The Ken Duncan Gallery & The Sanctuary Café at Erina showcases the landscape work of photographer Ken Duncan in a purpose-built facility featuring viewing rooms and a weekendsfortwo.com.au

30-seat theatre designed to put on the spectacular audio-visual presentations. In a beautiful location with the Skillion headland at one end, Terrigal is easy to fall in love with whether you just come for rest, relaxation, shopping and dining or choose the area for its fishing, sailing, diving or snorkelling. Other beaches in the area include Avoca, its golden sands between two headlands creating a special spot for swimming and surfing while Avoca Lake offers kayaking and surf skiing to add to the mix of myriad marine activities. Golf, horse riding, hang gliding and surf lessons are just some of the other activities while bike riding is a brilliant way to see more of the coast on the area’s network of cycle paths. The Central Coast Cycling Guide has all the details, available from visitor centres. Although it is quite a trip by road from Palm Beach to the Central Coast, it is just a short trip by boat which is a fabulous way to explore the mouth of the Hawkesbury River guarded by Lion Island. Palm Beach is one of the largest of Sydney’s beaches, approximately two to three kilometres long facing the Pacific Ocean on one side and backing on to Pittwater on the other, making the area almost an island. A favourite with Sydney’s rich and famous you can be sure of a relaxed but stylish getaway here with shopping to match. Check out Bow Wow, for example, for designers such as Ginger & Smart, Easton Pearson and the latest finds in swimwear, hats, shoes and jewellery. Drop into Soshu’s for a little taste of India with jewellery, shawls, bags, pashminas as well as embroidered items and fabrics from Pushkar – and those are just two examples of the of the great stores you will find in the area.

Munmorah State recreation Area. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales Fishing on the Central Coast. Image courtesy of grenville Turner, Tourism New South Wales

Alison Plummer Read about Bells at Killcare, Villa by the Sea and Noonaweena, great places to stay on the Central Coast, on the following pages.

Shopfront, Terrigal. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales

Pretty Beach. Image courtesy of Nick rains, Tourism New South Wales

edogawa Commemorative gardens, gosford. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales

CeNTrAL CoAST NSW

Inspired Luxury

KILLCARE

BELLS AT KILLCARE BeLLS AT KILLCAre BouTIQue HoTeL, reSTAurANT AND BAr IS oNe oF NSW’S hidden treasures. Just a 90-minute drive north of Sydney, you will discover a sophisticated and secluded haven of established gardens and villas, surrounded by pristine beaches, waterways and bays and the native flora and coastal walking trails of the Bouddi Peninsula National Park. The centre of activity is the gorgeous newly refurbished Manor House, with its “Villa America” style contemporary chic interiors, inspired by the rich blues and soft golden sands of Killcare surf beach. The Manor House is home to the much applauded, authentic regional Bells at Killcare restaurant which features the cuisine of one of Australia’s most influential and celebrated chefs; Italian born, Stefano Manfredi. Stefano’s seasonal menu offerings are Italian inspired, with local produce and the estate’s lush fruit and vegetable garden, which is harvested daily, forming the basis of much of his menu. The coastal style cottage accommodation is appointed with adults only in mind and is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend, or a midweek recharge from the demands of city life. Nestled within the extensive gardens, guests can relax in two-story, deluxe spa villas or single-story, king spa suites. Decorated in the Bells at Killcare signature blue and white style, with bespoke quilts, sumptuous pillows, cotton weave blankets, and linen covered club chairs and sofas, each suite has its own private veranda, furnished as another outdoor room with adjustable roller blinds and screens for privacy and shade. each suite is stocked with a generous breakfast hamper, which includes hand made bread, granola, jams and sausages from Manfredi’s kitchen, fresh free-range eggs from the Bells’ Chooks and selected seasonal fruits.

PHONE: 61 2 4360 2411 FAX: 61 2 4360 2422 EMAIL: reservations@ BellsatKillcare.com.au . www.BellsatKillcare.com.au

That said, once checked into Bells at Killcare, it is difficult to leave. weekendsfortwo.com.au

CeNTrAL CoAST NSW

an idyllic balance of

attentiveness and space

TERRIGAL

villas. The Villa by the Sea suite has a king-size bed and large ensuite bathroom overlooking the private deck and gazebo area, all with those stunning ocean views. The Seagull suite has two bedrooms and a bathroom, ocean views and access to the Balinese gazebo and spa.

VILLA BY THE SEA

each has private access, facilities for light snacks, ceiling-to-floor windows for uninterrupted sea views, spacious living areas with comfortable lounges, TV/DVD/ stereo facilities and, with wooden shutters, cane furniture and tiled floors, fit the beachside setting perfectly.

“We Are So gLAD We DISCoVereD this breathtaking and beautiful panorama. We have revelled in the peace and privacy of this location”. There’s no warmer praise than from a grateful guest, and the Villa by the Sea guestbook tells the tale of a stylish yet peaceful ocean retreat, perfect for relaxation, rejuvenation and romance. Located in fashionable Terrigal, Villa by the Sea is just two minutes from the beautiful beaches of North Avoca and Terrigal. As you take your first breath of fresh sea air and savour the surroundings, you’ll slip effortlessly into holiday mode – assisted, perhaps by a chilled champagne in the hydrotherapy spa and the twinkling of the fairy lights on the water. your 4½ star accommodation consists of two luxurious air-conditioned Tuscan-style 52

The beautiful surf beaches of the Central Coast are on your doorstep, as are first class restaurants, golf courses and walking tracks that will lead you into the Bouddi National Park.

PHONE: 02 4385 1170 FAX: 02 4385 4798 WEB: www.villabythesea.com.au EMAIL: stay@villabythesea.com.au TARIFF: from $185/couple/night. Midweek packages available.

your host Margaret strikes a skilful balance, offering attentiveness as well as the space to unwind. She can arrange anything from a delicious breakfast, a restaurant reservation, a luxurious massage in the comfort of your villa or one of the many local activities. or, she can leave you to simply watch the ocean from the balcony of your own private sanctuary. weekendsfortwo.com.au

CeNTrAL CoAST NSW

A beautiful resting place in the bush

CENTRAL COAST

Spend your weekend exploring the secluded nature trails that criss-cross the 100 acre property, take to the tennis court and afterwards enjoy a massage or revive in the spa.

Noonaweena is a place of delightful contrasts. Set high on a ridge commanding majestic views over yengo National Park, this boutique haven is in the very heart of the bush, yet is just 45 minutes from outer Sydney and 45 mins to Central Coast beaches. It’s a striking example of contemporary architecture, yet totally in tune with its natural environment.

If can tear yourself away, you’ll find golf, paintball and horseriding nearby. But with Noonaweena more than living up to the translation of its Aboriginal name - “resting place in the bush” - chances are you won’t roam too far.

NOONAWEENA

And, despite its sophisticated interiors and modern facilities, it remains a welcoming country house, offering guests a unique opportunity to connect with the land. until recently, Noonaweena was exclusively for the pleasure of small groups of up to 16 people, coming together in peace and privacy for stylish family celebrations, pastoral retreats, memorable weddings or corporate meetings. But the property has been extended to cater for the demand of couples seeking a restorative weekend bed and breakfast in this most remarkable environment. The newly-built gymea House has five large bedrooms each with their own bathroom or ensuite, two living areas, gas fireplace, ceiling fans and air conditioning, and large kitchen and dining room. outside, enjoy an entertaining area complete with BBQs and roomy heated spa. An additional apartment, the ultra-modern executive suite Treetops, is also available on weekends. Fully self-contained with a large king bedroom, office area, spa bathroom, large modern kitchen/dining/living area, large deck with stainless steel BBQ, it’s an ideal couple’s retreat. weekendsfortwo.com.au

PHONE: 02 4376 1290 FAX: 02 4376 1429 WEB: www.noonaweena.com.au EMAIL: manager@noonaweena. com.au TARIFF: Weekend packages, including breakfast hamper, from Friday evening until Sunday afternoon are $450 for 1 couple/ $800 for 2 couples if they book together 53

destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mid North Coast

Best of both worlds on the

mid nor th coast Following the Great Divide north from Sydney, temptations beckon both on the coast and in the hinterland with beautiful rainforest scenery on one side and lakes and welcoming seaside towns on the other.

Broughton Island, Myall Lakes National Park. Image courtesy of great Lakes Tourism

ust north of Newcastle, Port Stephens is a very special area with inviting sandy beaches surrounded by headlands and inlets. A designated marine park this isan ideal place for surfing, sailing and all kinds of marine activities including cruises to observe the bottlenose dolphins and offers great diving around Fly Point and Halifax Park. Nelson Bay is Port Stephensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fishing port and the place to be for cafes, restaurants and shopping for arts and crafts, giftware, books, resort wear and specialist items such as sports and golf equipment. Out and about, visit Holberts Oyster Farm in Salamander Bay which has lovely views as well as delicious, freshly shucked oysters. North of Port Stephens is the Great Lakes area which includes the Wallis, Myall and Smiths Lakes offering the best of both

weekendsfortwo.com.au

Camel riding at Stockton Beach, Newcastle. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales. Skywalk, Dorrigo National Park. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales.

Kayaking on Two Mile Lake. Image courtesy of Don Fuchs, Tourism New South Wales. plateau with ancient beech trees, subtropical rainforest and subalpine woodlands resonates with the sounds of birdsong and is alive with native Australian animals including many rare species. The wide rivers are just made for kayaking and the historic villages for discovering more about the area and tasting local produce including cheese and wine.

Smoky Cape Lighthouse at South West rocks. Image courtesy of Don Fuchs, Tourism New South Wales.

Further north, inland from Coffs Harbour, is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most scenic drives, the Waterfall Way, between the coast and historic Armidale. The drive winds up through the beautiful Dorrigo National Park which has one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most accessible areas of rainforest.

worlds with the tranquil lakes for fishing, boating and kayaking and the ocean for surfing and sailing. Myall River is famous for its prawns and Wallis Lake for its oysters so expect to dine in style when you visit the local cafes and restaurants, or pick up your own fresh from the seafood co-ops and outlets in the area. Inland from the Great Lakes the rainforested national parks and wilderness areas begin with Barrington Tops and stretch all the way to Mt Warning in the NSW Far North. These are the protected Gondwana Rainforests and, while the coast is an understandable magnet, it is exciting to experience the natural attractions and activities of the lush valleys and mountains. Barrington Tops feels like being on another planet, yet it is only a two and a half hour drive from Sydney. This 25 kilometre weekendsfortwo.com.au

The Dorrigo Rainforest Centre is an interpretative centre with interactive displays to show how the rainforest evolved and boardwalks both on the forest floor and at treetop level to help you to appreciate just how different this forest system really is with its massive, buttressed trees, vines and wildlife. Back on the coast, the bays, beaches and seaside towns of the north coast offer all kinds of activities from gourmet experiences to discovering the wide range of local produce to festivals and galleries showcasing the works of local artists and craftspeople who are drawn to the area by its scenery and balmy sub-tropical climate.

Alison Plummer Read about Clarendon Forest Retreat and Nundoobah Retreat, great places to stay on the mid north coast, on the following pages.

BLUE MOUNTAINS NSW

Possum Brush via Forster

Clarendon Forest Retreat

More romantic

than ever

Legendary for its hospitality and portfolio of luxurious hideaways, Clarendon Forest Retreat is about to become even more romantic with the construction of a million dollar custom-designed wedding and honeymoon venue for intimate and exclusive weddings. More and more couples who visit for weekends get engaged here and return for their honeymoon having been through stressful times with big city weddings that they really didn’t want. Others who decided to elope have so enjoyed the wedding experience here that Clarendon has decided to offer an even broader range of options. “We are responding to the very real need for couples to enjoy their significant day without the hassle,” says Sharyn Cox. “ We love hosting boutique weddings and this new venture will make it possible for us to focus on them even more in the future.” Clarendon’s luxuriously appointed cottages in their private settings make this one of the most romantic destinations you could imagine and isn’t it wonderful to think that one place can look after all the wedding plans including the special touches such as the flowers, catering by local chefs, the cake and photography – AND host your honeymoon as well? Not that weddings will take over – this is the place for all kinds of celebrations and escapes with the privately-owned, individually themed cottages and retreats boasting a range of luxurious appointments to make every stay here very special indeed. With weekend enjoyment in mind you can look forward to a massage which can be arranged in your retreat and catering by an-in house chef if you desire. You can head for the coast nearby when you feel the call of the sea or go horse-riding, a speciality here with trail rides through private forest trails on the 1000 acre property. 56

PHONE: 02 6554 3085 FAX: 02 6554 3242 WEB: www.cfr.com.au EMAIL: cfr@cfr.com.au TARIFF: from $425/couple/ 2-night stay

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MID NorTH CoAST NSW

Luxury B&B

with a difference

MANNING VALLEY VIA TAREE

NUNDOOBAH RETREAT

SITuATeD IN THe MANNINg VALLey oN THe BANKS oF THe IMPoSINg Dawson river, this luxurious haven has two romantic cottages designed to help you relax and escape the pressures of everyday life in tranquil surroundings.

in the local Aboriginal Biripi language. In keeping with the area, there are Aboriginal carvings, paintings and sculptures in and around the cottages which add to the atmosphere and seem to encourage you to explore the property.

Surrounded by 1,000 acres of natural bushland, the property takes its name from the grass Trees which dot the landscape as Nundoobah means “Place of the grass Tree”

After breakfast, made from the generous hamper supplied, you might row a boat along the river, walk or bike along restored logging trails or through the bush, looking out for kangaroos, ducks, frogs, koalas, fish and the many birds which inhabit the area. Play a game of tennis on the grass court or test your skills on the putting green which are both part of the facilities while an 18-hole golf course is only a five minute drive away.

PHONE: 02 6552 2818 FAX: 02 6551 0995 WEB: www.nundoobah-retreat.com.au EMAIL: deidre@nundoobah-retreat.com.au TARIFF: from $550/couple/2-night stay

Visiting local wineries and villages with restaurants featuring delicious fresh produce are high on the list of priorities as is heading for Barrington Tops, exploring the waterways of the Manning Delta or discovering the area’s bays and surf beaches.

Just a three hour drive north from the start of the F3 Freeway at Sydney’s Wahroonga, Nundoobah’s cottages both have floor to ceiling windows, king-sized beds and indulgent double spas. The living areas have comfortable sofas, TV/DVD and CD facilities and there’s a TV/DVD in the bedroom as well so you can choose where to watch your chosen movies. The granite kitchen is beautifully appointed and comes complete with fine china and crystal and, as you can imagine, the bathroom is also luxurious and romantic with a double shower, scented oils and candles.

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destination – Hunter region

Romance in the

vineyards

These days there are many reasons to choose the Hunter Valley as your destination for a romantic weekend away with so many activities that it is almost possible to forget to visit the vineyards. Almost, but not quite.

he Hunter has over 120 vineyards with some of Australia’s oldest and most respected family names on its honour roll and many wines which are revered around the world. Accolades listed on the Hunter Valley Wine Country website include one from famous UK wine buff Jancis Robinson who says: “Hunter Valley Semillon is Australia’s unique gift to the wine world”. Others agree and the Shiraz is also held in high regard, its characteristics being unique to the Hunter.

The Hunter has a busy calendar of events and concerts with many in the spring and summer months. Wyndham Estate hosts Opera in the Vines, Tyrell’s hosts Jazz in the Vines and Bimbadgen Estate has Days On the Green.

Of course many grape varieties are grown here and that’s what makes touring wine country so interesting as you have the chance to try different varietals and blends at the cellar door with informed and friendly people to help point you in the right direction. Visitors often fall in love with a particular label they haven’t previously been aware of and join its wine club which brings them back to the Hunter again and again.

There are also activities aplenty as ballooning, scenic flights, golf and even polo are synonymous with the Hunter. The Upper Hunter is horse-breeding country and polo is an activity that goes with the turf, so to speak.

The Hunter has several regions including Pokolbin, Lovedale, Mount View, Rothbury, Wollombi and Broke Fordwich which has been classified a viticultural sub region of the Hunter it its own right.

From October to January, Wollombi presents the Sculpture in the Vineyards trail with sculptures set amongst the vines. The event is hosted by five vineyards – Undercliff Winery, Stonehurst Cedar Creek, Wollombi Wines, Noyce Bros, and Wollombi Village Vineyard.

Alison Plummer Read about Ferguson’s Hunter Valley Getaway and Billabong Moon, great places to stay in the Hunter on the following pages.

Only 10 minutes’ drive from Pokolbin, Broke Fordwich is a lovely area dominated by the imposing Yellow Rock escarpment and producing interesting wines at its 50 or so vineyards with Merlot and Verdelho just two of the success stories. Margan’s impressive, award-winning Cellar Door & Restaurant is just one of the must-visits at Broke at the Margan Winery. One look at chef Lisa Margan’s menus will be enough to persuade you to dine at this restaurant which has earned a great name for itself in the Hunter. Wherever you stay it is easy to tour the Hunter with many ways to travel including chauffeur-driven limousines and classic cars, Harley bikes and even a horse-drawn carriage. As well as the wines you will find local produce including cheese and chocolate and any number of local cafes and restaurants to call in on as you travel around.

Taking in the view. Image courtesy of Ashley Mackevicius, Tourism New South Wales.

Pokolbin. Image courtesy of Anson Smart, Tourism New South Wales.

HuNTer regIoN NSW

HUNTER VALLEY

FERGUSON’S HUNTER VALLEY GETAWAY

Everyone should spoil themselves

WITH uNINTerruPTeD VIeWS ToWArDS yeLLoW roCK AND DoWN THe stunning Brokenback range, Ferguson’s Hunter Valley getaway is the ideal weekend getaway or mid week short break destination. Just two hours north of central Sydney, the luxurious, private suite accommodation has been purpose-built with your comfort in mind on a 72 acre property with half a kilometre of river frontage along the Wollombi Brook. The newly refurbished suites are thoughtfully designed for comfort with the kind of beds that seem to invite a wonderful night’s sleep. even the large ensuite bathrooms (some with spas) have views and it is just so easy to relax in your suite with comfortable sofas, LCD TV/DVD, reverse cycle air-conditioning and ceiling fans to keep you cool or cosy all year. each luxury suite has a small kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, twoplate cook top with an electric barbecue on your terrace. Country breakfast hampers are provided at weekends containing all the ingredients for a scrumptious breakfast to be prepared at your leisure, including beautiful farm fresh eggs. Midweek a generous continental breakfast is included with an option of a breakfast hamper to cook for a small charge. Dinner can be arranged in your suite by prior request and you can also use the property’s large hooded barbecue at the Pavilion on the dam, relaxing there or by the saltwater swimming pool as the sun sets against yellow rock.

once in a while

of up to 12 for perfect country retreats. Whether you are two or more, the Broke Fordwich region of the Hunter Valley is a fantastic rural country destination with many activities available including wine tasting, visiting an alpaca farm, tasting local gourmet olive oil products or bushwalking in one of many National Parks.

PHONE: 02 6579 1046 WEB: www.huntervalleygetaway. com.au EMAIL: susie@ huntervalleygetaway.com.au TARIFF: From $180/night midweek – from $265/night weekends

While the property is just made for romantic escapes, it may also be booked by groups 60

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HuNTer regIoN NSW

a stunning escape

in the Hunter

POKOLBIN

BILLABONG MOON STyLISH PrIVACy IN A PeACeFuL BuSHLAND oASIS – IT’S eASy To See WHy Billabong Moon guests delight in unwinding in front of a cosy fire, while sipping a superb Hunter Valley wine. The unique cottages are set among 25 acres of native forest in the famous Pokolbin wine-growing region in the Hunter Valley. Wide verandahs and gazebos provide the perfect place to relax and take in the serene surrounds, or take a casual stroll along the walking tracks through the whispering casuarina forest. owners Andy and Jenny Birtchnell have designed the property – just two hours from Sydney – with the personal, private needs of guests in mind. There are five spacious, thoughtfully designed, self-contained cottages – Billabong, Casuarina, the Studio, Sunset ridge and Treetops – all located to ensure total privacy. While Casuarina provides an exclusive, private outdoor hot tub experience, the Studio offers an enticing king-size four-poster bed for tempting sleep-ins. Sunset ridge and Treetops are a perfect intimate escape for couples, and guests can lounge on deckchairs and take in the stunning views as they fish for silver perch off Billabong’s waterside deck. Cosy wood fires and polished timber floors add to the ambience and warmth of comfy living areas, while baths and spas for two offer the chance to indulge in a red wine bath. All cottages are energy efficient double brick and have reverse cycle air-conditioning for instant warmth during the glorious cooler months with bright clear skies and crisp cool nights. While it’s hard to go past the temptation of the region’s wineries, there’s so much more to enjoy in the area if you can bear to drag yourself away from your surrounds. Take an early-morning balloon flight, try an in-house massage or make the most of the many concerts, markets and food and wine events the valley is becoming renown for.

PHONE: 02 6574 7290 FAX: 02 6574 7299 WEB: www.billabongmoon.com.au EMAIL: info@billabongmoon.com.au TARIFF: from $220/couple/night; $340/ 2 couples/night; $600/couple/ 2-night weekend; $980/2 couples/2-night weekend. weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Far North Coast Koorumbyn Creek, Mount Warning National Park. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales.

Rainforests abound

on the far North Coast

With around 40 kilometres of unspoiled coastline and world heritage listed national parks, wetlands, estuarine forests and lush pastoral farmlands, it’s easy to see why the far north coast is regarded as one of New South Wales’ true gems. All interests are catered for – from outdoor activities to shopping and even the arts. The Tweed River Regional Art Gallery collects works from two main themes: Australian portraits of all eras and mediums, as well as works by regional artists depicting the local area. However it’s the region’s natural beauty which first captivates visitors, especially the dramatic peak of Mount Warning. Named by Captain Cook after having escaped the “dangerous shoals” of nearby Point Danger, the mountain is the remnant magma chamber and central vent of an ancient volcano. Over the centuries wind and rain have carved out some spectacular scenery. 62

Much of it is preserved in the six World Heritage listed areas in the region, including Mt Warning. One of the best ways to discover the beauty of this area is to follow the Rainforest Way, a meandering loop which drives through the lush, World Heritage-listed rainforests. To make the most of your journey along the Rainforest Way, drop into the Murwillumbah World Heritage Rainforest Centre and you’ll learn more about the rare wildlife and botanic splendours of the region. Sunrises at Mount Warning are always very special as it’s where the sun first hits the Australian continent. Daytime is also pretty special thanks to the great walks and natural beauty on offer within the park. There’s everything from long treks to short strolls which cover subtropical and temperate rainforest, wet sclerophyll forest and heath shrubland. A great introductory walk is the Lyrebird Track which winds through palm forest to a platform set amongst the lush subtropical rainforest.

Read about Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat , a great place to stay in the far north coast, on the following page.

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FAr NorTH CoAST NSW

For the time

of your life

TWEED VALLEY

bungalow to the surprise of your partner, whilst you are out on a walk.

reCoNNeCT AND re-eNergISe IN ABSoLuTe Luxury IN THe PrISTINe SeTTINg of Crystal Creek rainforest retreat.

Catering is rather special at Crystal Creek. youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve the use of a fully equipped kitchen and gas barbecue if you prefer to do it yourself. Alternatively you can order from a gourmet menu, prepared by an executive chef and delivered to you during the day for you to heat and enjoy at your leisure.

CRYSTAL CREEK RAINFOREST RETREAT Cradled on three sides by a World Heritage National Park, the retreat in Far Northern New South Wales caters for couples only. Stroll among real old growth rainforest with 400 year old trees; explore pristine fern-lined gorges; lie in a hammock over a crystal pool and savour that champagne on the comfort of your private deck while the birdlife serenades at sunset. The bungalows each have their own style and architecture, with the highest standards common throughout. Sustainability is incorporated into much of the design and management, but never at the cost of comfort. Polished timbers, floor to ceiling glass, luxurious soft furnishings, indulgent spa baths with rainforest views and cosy combustion log fires for the cooler months become your private haven. romantic packages and proposals are not uncommon at Crystal Creek with options like 100 candles all lit, roses, rose petal heart and trail, chocolates, champagne, gourmet dinner and a romantic table set for two. All are quietly slipped into your weekendsfortwo.com.au

youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also the opportunity to enjoy freshly packed hampers of the freshest local fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is how memories of a lifetime are made.

PHONE: 02 6679 1591 WEB: www.ccrr.com.au EMAIL: relax@ccrr.com.au TARIFF: from $345-525 couple/ night minimum two nights

destination – Byron Bay

The natural delights of

Byron Bay

f all New South Wales beach resorts Byron Bay would have to be one of the best known - thanks to its natural beauty and its famous residents. Over the past two decades, Byron Bay has become an escape for urban refugees, especially those with artistic inclinations. Artists, craftspeople and designers have set up shop, grafting their talents and energy on to this small, relaxed coastal village. After spending a weekend wandering around Byron it’s easy to see why it has been so popular. All the elements associated with the perfect holiday destination are there - unpolluted waters ideal for surfers and swimmers, rugged cliffs and long stretches of beach. One of the best places to appreciate this natural beauty is the Cape Byron Headland Reserve. The views from the reserve are fantastic. At the same time you are also visiting Australia’s most easterly point so an early morning walk means you’ll be one of the first in the country to see the sunrise! As well as being able to say you’ve had such an experience you’ll be rewarded with some great views as you walk above 100 metre high cliffs. A five kilometre walking trail through the reserve not only takes in the cliffs but also traverses coastal heath, littoral rainforest and banksia forest. It also offers stunning views of the hinterland and ocean. Lookouts along the way offer the chance to see dolphins and even humpback whales which cruise past the headland between June and December. Another highlight is the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the most easterly lighthouse in Australia, and one of the most powerful. Standing on a bald rocky headland with a precipitous cliff on the east side, and a sheer drop of approximately 100 metres, it’s a majestic landmark. What better way to celebrate such a walk than with a great meal? With so many offerings in Byron the greatest challenge is deciding which to choose.

Read about Bay Royal Apartments, a great place to stay in Byron Bay, on the following page. Image courtesy of Adam Taylor, Tourism New South Wales.

Belongil Beach. Image courtesy of Sharyn Carins, Tourism New South Wales.

ByroN BAy NSW

the best beach now the

best accommodation

BYRON BAY

BAY ROYAL APARTMENTS IN A PrIMe PoSITIoN DIreCTLy ACroSS FroM ByroN BAy’S MAIN BeACH, Bay royal Apartments offer new levels of luxury and style at the heart of one of Australia’s most sought-after destinations. Just a stroll away from all the action and attractions of eclectic Byron, including its shopping, range of therapies and wellbeing treatments, restaurants, cafes and bars, Bay royal’s premier self-contained apartments are the place to stay, elegantly appointed and with great views from their private balconies. The one, two and three bedroom apartments are all spacious and comfortable for relaxed living and with all the comforts of home such as ensuite to the main bedroom, gourmet kitchen, laundry, plasma LCD/DVD, cable and movie link showing free latest releases. The property also offers two luxurious, three-storey town houses sleeping six to eight people and with two separate living spaces, rooftop area and outdoor settings. Privately owned, each apartment differs in decor and furnishings according to the owners’ taste and there’s an on-site manager for all your needs. Shopping is easy for self-catering as the shops and takeaways are close-by, however this is Byron Bay and the choice of dining couldn’t be broader, so don’t be surprised if you are tempted to eat out. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Main Beach is home to Byron’s famous Surf Club and is patrolled by Surf lifesavers in summer. The white beaches have been a drawcard for visitors for decades with their views of the lush hinterland and the chance to spot dolphins and migrating whales in season from June to November. There are many marine and other activities to experience and the beautiful Byron Hinterland to explore if you have time with its rolling countryside, inviting little towns, cafes, galleries and shops.

PHONE: 02 6680 9187 WEB: www.bayroyal.com.au EMAIL: apartments@bayroyal.com.au TARIFF: From$278 – $1072/ night, minimum stay three nights, depending on the season. 65

destination – Lord Howe Island

Welcome to

paradise Images courtesy of Lord Howe Island Tourism Association.

ord Howe Island is my idea of paradise on earth. Only 11 km long and 2 km at its widest point, this rare jewel in the Pacific Ocean is arguably the most beautiful island in the southern hemisphere and is only a two hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane. World Heritage listed in 1982, Lord Howe Island boasts the planet’s southernmost coral reef and is home to 500 species of fish and 90 species of coral. It’s simply one of the best places for snorkelling and diving and to swim in its warm waters is like swimming in an aquarium. In the sparkling lagoon, come face to face with the tame but huge and incredibly ugly double headed wrasse whilst snorkelling at Comet’s Hole, or enjoy the stunning view from a glass bottomed boat. If you’re lucky you might swim with a turtle at Settlement Beach. Hand feed the fish at Ned’s Beach, voted NSW’s cleanest beach in 1994. In fact there are 11 beaches on Lord Howe Island all with incredibly clean clear water and pristine white sand. Lord Howe Island has a rare collection of plants and birds and its exceptional beauty and unique features remain relatively unspoilt and extraordinarily well cared for by its inhabitants. With only 350 residents and a maximum of 400 visitors on the island at one time, Lord Howe Island is never crowded and is an ideal destination for people who want to get away from it all.

To really appreciate nature, enjoy an island walk with famed naturalist, Ian Hutton, or for the more adventurous, climb Mount Gower with guide, Jack Shick. Picnic, swim and sunbake at secluded Cobby’s Corner, then enjoy a leisurely cycle home. At Transit Hill, sit on the observation tower to experience 360 degree views of this spectacular island. And don’t forget to watch the sun set over the lagoon at the end of the day with a glass of fine wine or an icy cold beer.

Carolyn Jamieson Read about Pinetrees Resort Hotel, a great place to stay on Lord Howe Island, on the following page.

LorD HoWe ISLAND NSW

Love at

ﬁrst sight

LORD HOWE ISLAND

PINETREES RESORT HOTEL FIrST-TIMe VISITorS Are NeVer prepared for the beauty of World Heritage Listed Lord Howe.

luxury garden cottages with dining and living areas, spacious bathroom and outdoor garden terrace.

even those who return often fall in love with the island all over again at first sight.

A larger cottage is available for groups of friends while stylish one-bedroom suites and motel-style units with ensuites and verandahs are also available with prices to suit every pocket.

At the heart of Lord Howe, Pinetrees is owned by the rourke and McFadyen families, descendants of the first settlers who arrived on this spectacular island seeking shelter from stormy seas in 1842. Welcoming travellers, groups of friends, lovers and honeymooners almost ever since, the family homestead built in 1884 is still at the centre of Pinetrees’ special brand of hospitality. It’s the place to enjoy all the meals included in your tariff from generous breakfasts to delicious lunches, irresistible afternoon tea and romantic, candlelit dinners. The single storey accommodation is set amongst towering pines, graceful palms, fragrant frangipanis and colourful hibiscus and includes architecturally designed weekendsfortwo.com.au

you’ll find the laid-back island life all too easy to get into since bikes are the usual form of transport and walking along the many island tracks is rewarded with fabulous views. Swimming, diving, snorkelling and golf are all available and Pinetrees has its own tennis court for a game when you feel like it. Before dinner, be sure to head to Pinetrees’ private beachside boatshed, the best place of all to end the day with a glass of wine or a beer as the sun sinks behind the lagoon, lighting up the mountains as it goes.

PHONE: 02 9262 6585 FAX: 02 9262 6638 WEB: www.pinetrees.com.au EMAIL: info@pinetrees.com.au TARIFF: From $660/couple/ night, all inclusive. See website for packages.

destination – Snowy Mountains

Summertime in the

Snowy Mountains Most people who live at or travel regularly to the Snowy Mountains agree that the best season to be there is in the summertime. With an enormous variety of activities on offer, stunning alpine scenery and fabulous weather it is easy to see why.

hen you visit the Snowy Mountains you can expect to see some of Australia’s most spectacular and wild scenery. High peaks, clear mountain streams and cool, crisp air – coupled with the abundance of unpolluted freshwater streams, the famous Murray and Snowy Rivers, magnificent valleys and meadows means the region is proudly unique and diverse in its natural attractions. From November to May visitors can enjoy a multitude of sports down on the valley floor, in the lakes and rivers or up in the lofty heights of the mountains. Walks to Mount Kosciuszko are very popular. Choose from either the Summit Walk commencing at Charlotte Pass or starting from Thredbo or the Kosciuszko Walk, which links up via a chairlift ride from Thredbo. Gorgeous alpine wildflowers burst into

colour during the summer months. And with such wonderful names as Alpine Stackhousia and Hoary Sunray, the vibrant colours scatter the rugged landscape like an artist’s pallet, inspirational for photographers and painters alike. The walk to Mount Kosciuszko is suitable for most ages and levels of fitness. A more strenuous guided walk to experience the power and beauty of Kosciuszko’s deepest glacial lake, the ancient Blue Lake, is highly recommended. Horse riding in the Snowy Mountains will reward you with the most unrivalled panoramic views in this unspoilt wilderness, and from a very different aspect in the saddle. Try a two hour trail ride, some lessons or a half or full day adventure. Camping under the brightly blazing stars during a horse safari offers a true

weekendsfortwo.com.au

He hails from Snowy River, up by Kosciuszkoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side, Where the hills are twice as steep and twice as rough, And the Snowy River riders on the mountains make their home, Where the river runs those giant hills between A.B. (Banjo) Paterson. Snowy Mountains. Image courtesy of Sally Mayman, Tourism New South Wales. Fishing, Lake Jindabyne. Image courtesy of Nick rains, Tourism New South Wales.

high country alpine experience where you can follow in the footsteps of The Man From Snowy River. The Snowy Mountains region is considered to be the premier trout fishery in New South Wales and was host to the 1999 World Fly Fishing Championships. Fancy catching some trout? Well there are four methods used in the Snowy region. Use lures to spin the lakes and rivers, and try flyfishing the streams and rivers at Guthega or Thredbo. Bait fish in the lakes or why not experience the beauty of Lake Jindabyne by trolling on a boat trip? Sit back and relax, soaking up the beautiful scenery as you meander around the lake while waiting for the fish to bite. Other pursuits you may like to try, and are readily available in the Snowy region, include mountain bike riding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, white water rafting, abseiling, cycling, caving, bird weekendsfortwo.com.au

watching, photography, painting and sketching, star gazing, waterskiing and meditating. You are truly spoilt for choice. The Snowy Mountains is a significant and untameable high country where many Australian myths and traditions of Australian identity were born. Whether from mother nature’s pure beauty or the legends of early settlers, there is a story to be told and history to be learnt here. Stories that make the Snowy Mountains truly unique include the awesome Mount Kosciuszko, the famous high country huts, the Snowy Hydro Scheme feats of ingenuity, beautiful mountain brumbies and rivers that flow with legends. But the best part about these Australian historical icons, is that they are here in the Snowy Mountains for you to experience, to see, feel, smell, hear and swim in today. There is no better time to enjoy this than in summertime.

Snowy Mountains. Image courtesy of Don Fuchs, Tourism New South Wales.

When visiting the Snowy Mountains consider making your base the centrally located township of Jindabyne, which is nestled around its magnificent Lake Jindabyne. Or perhaps stay at Thredbo Village, Perisher Valley or in the charming hamlet of Guthega. The Snowy Mountains boasts a wide range of excellent accommodation, warm hospitality and a smorgasbord of fine dining options, sure to be appreciated after a day’s summer alpine activity. Travellers from near and far find the Snowy Mountains an incredibly easy place to reach. Situated approximately half way between Sydney and Melbourne, there is a range of transport services second to none. So whether you are driving the scenic route, flying in, or travelling by air conditioned train or coach, the Snowy Mountains is closer than you expect, yet a world away from the everyday. I can’t think of a more perfect place to enjoy a summer’s break.

Snowy Mountains. Image courtesy of Jon Armstrong, Tourism New South Wales.

Carolyn Jamieson Read about Banjo Paterson Inn, Guthega Alpine Hotel, Quality Resort Horizons and Lake Crackenback Resort, great places to stay in the Snowy Mountains, on the following pages.

Kayaking, Lake Crackenback resort. Image courtesy of Jon Armstrong, Tourism New South Wales.

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SNoWy MouNTAINS NSW

spoil yourselves at

the Banjo

SNOWY MOUNTAINS

BANJO PATERSON INN IN THe HeArT oF JINDAByNe WITH BrILLIANT VIeWS oVer THe LAKe, ‘THe BANJo’, is just a short walk from all the town’s facilities and attractions and ideally placed for all the activities in the area. A brilliant base for romantic weekend escapes, there’s accommodation to suit every pocket from budget rooms to lake view rooms and the executive Suite. Lakeview rooms have ensuites, king beds, TV, bar fridge and tea/coffee making. Lakeview Deluxe rooms have the same features plus extras such as spa baths or full kitchens. Celebrating a special occasion or just feel like spoiling yourselves? Check out the executive loft apartment which has brilliant views, two balconies, a luxuriously oversized king bed, fully equipped kitchen and many other desirable features including a plasma TV and leather lounges. Apart from great rooms, the contemporary surroundings and modern facilities include Musters Bar and grill, Clancy’s Brasserie and Cocktail Bar, Banjo’s Nightclub and a Beer garden so you don’t have to look (or walk!) far for dining options and live entertainment. Lovers of boutique beers will be happy to know that the property also has its own microbrewery onsite as Dr Chuck Hahn’s latest brewing venture, the Kosciuszko Brewing Company, is based here producing a fruity Kosciuszko Pale Ale. weekendsfortwo.com.au

guests also love The Banjo because the hosts believe that enjoying yourselves means doing whatever works best for you. Many guests are content to relax, doing as little as possible except maybe having a relaxing spa or holistic treatment and just enjoying the location. others come for the activities – Jindabyne is famous as a winter base for skiers heading to the snowfields of the Kosciuszko National Park while in summer the area offers a very broad range of experiences.

PHONE: 02 6456 2372 or freecall 1800 046 275 WEB: www.banjopatersoninn.com.au EMAIL: reservations@ banjopatersoninn.com.au TARIFF: from $79/budget room – $119/Lakeview Deluxe which includes hot breakfast. 71

SNoWy MouNTAINS NSW

secluded, romantic , relaxing

SNOWY MOUNTAINS

GUTHEGA ALPINE THe oNLy ACCoMMoDATIoN WITH uNINTerruPTeD VIeWS oF MT KoSCIuSZKo, this secluded inn on Blue Cow Mountain is the perfect base for romantic summer escapes. Famous for its stunning mountain scenery, this area is also historic as the guthega Dam was the first project of the Snowy Mountains Scheme in the 1950s. Built of cedar and stone, guthega Alpine is an inviting, traditionally-designed alpine inn with all the comfort and charm you would expect including spacious suites to make your stay a pleasure. guests have a choice of the guthega Suite and spacious, well-appointed king and queen rooms, many with balconies and expansive views. Accommodation is also available for groups making this a great choice as a venue for meetings and conferences. Dining is designed to reflect the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s european heritage with daily menus featuring regional produce and wines. Meals are served in the hotel dining room and the cafĂŠ bar which is also open to visitors who come for the great food, the service and the views. The daily tariff for guests includes mountain breakfast and three-course dinner. Picnic lunches can be provided to take with you on your travels. The hotel has an inviting lounge with a fireplace and also has an onsite sauna and spa. With its fabulous location, guthega is a magnet for anyone who enjoys walking, fishing and mountain biking. Bikes, fishing gear and bikes are available as well as guided walks and fishing tours by arrangement. guests can walk in the snow gum woodlands behind the hotel or access the main mountain range via guthega Dam and the Illawong suspension bridge across the Snowy river just two kilometres upstream from the hotel with access to destinations including Mt Twynam, Blue Lake and beyond. 72

PHONE: 02 6457 5383 WEB: www.guthega.com EMAIL: stay@guthega.com TARIFF: from $270/night including breakfast and dinner.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

SNoWy MouNTAINS NSW

SNOWY MOUNTAINS NSW

QUALITY RESORT HORIZONS

High country

excellence

oN LAKe JINDAByNe, IN THe HeArT of the Snowy Mountains, Quality resort Horizons has just one aim – to provide guests with a truly memorable experience with great service and value for money. An excellent choice for your romantic weekend away, the resort has 120 contemporary, fully self-contained Studio, Deluxe Studio and executive apartments, all with private balconies with breathtaking lake and/or mountain views.

As well as the welcoming apartments, guests love the food as the resort serves some of the best in the region at Mcevoy’s restaurant and Horizons Bar & grill. executive Chef gerard Austin uses local produce where possible including Snowy Mountains Trout, Monaro Beef and Lamb, Jindabyne’s Hobbit Farm goat Cheese and local fruit and vegetables in season.

Speaking of local tastes, the resort also serves Snowy Mountains Brewery beers including Crackenback Pale Ale which Studios are open plan with queen bed, goes well with spicy Asian flavours, local Deluxe studios have either queen or king schnapps from the Wild Brumby Distillery bed and the executive apartment is split level with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and regional wines including some from the Snowies’ Tumbarumba region. one with ensuite with a spa bath. All apartments feature modern, fully equipped The property has a lovely indoor heated kitchens with dishwashers, TV with Austar swimming pool and a synthetic grass channels and free in-house movie channels. tennis court while pamper packages, weekendsfortwo.com.au

treatments and massages are available close by. Jindabyne has something for everyone in summer from shopping to horse riding, fly-fishing to art galleries and staff at Quality resort Horizons are happy to help point you in the direction of things to see and do. PS With the emphasis on guest experience, it is also no wonder that this is a sought-after location for weddings.

PHONE: 02 6456 2562 WEB: www.horizonsresort.com.au EMAIL: stay@horizonsresort.com.au TARIFF: FROM $175/night. 73

SNoWy MouNTAINS NSW

SNOWY MOUNTAINS

LAKE CRACKENBACK RESORT

romanti c alpine escape

IN THe THreDBo VALLey, BorDerINg THe KoSCIuSZKo NATIoNAL PArK AND surrounded by the spectacular Snowy Mountains, Lake Crackenback resort is a natural alpine playground offering exciting lake, mountain and resort activities throughout the year. Just 15 minutes from Thredbo, the resort features a range of award-winning, contemporary self contained accommodation including one to three bedroom overwater Apartments and luxurious alpine-style studios and two to four bedroom Mountain View Chalets. The stylish apartments offer spectacular mountain views, over water lakeside balconies, spacious living areas and a master bedroom with queen bed and private ensuite. The open plan kitchen and dining areas provide a central area for entertaining. Sleeping four to eight people, the Lake Crackenback’s Mountain View Chalets offer a variety of dual key options. The interiors of the 5 star Mountain View studios chalets emit both style and quality and come fully furnished in rich colours and textures. Self-contained studios combine a spacious living room and sleeping area with a kitchenette and all chalets are designed with luxurious detail incorporating modern décor and furnishings. Features such as underfloor heating, stylish lounge and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, TV and in-house complimentary movie systems are standard throughout most properties. While self-catering is easy, Cuisine on Lake Crackenback restaurant & Bar is very welcoming, promoting dining excellence with country cuisine using the best local produce and served in a lovely setting with views of Lake Crackenback and the surrounding mountains. Also on site, the contemporary The Spa at Lake Crackenback pampers with 100 per cent organic products and the deluxe treatment room’s luxurious 74

infinity edge bath is the perfect place to wind down after the day’s activities. Lake Crackenback is a perfect base to explore the region from sightseeing, local attractions and fantastic summer activities including walking trails, Kosciuszko Alpine guided Walks, mountain biking, kayaking or fly fishing in pristine alpine wilderness surroundings.

PHONE: 02 6451 3000 WEB: www.lakecrackenback.com.au EMAIL: reservations@ lakecrackenback.com.au TARIFF: From $235 per night including breakfast for two people and use of resort’s complimentary activities. Conditions apply, subject to availability and season. weekendsfortwo.com.au

’ Shoalhaven s

destination – South Coast

sparkling jewels

Jervis Bay. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales. Berry. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales.

The Shoalhaven region, on NSW’s South Coast, is an area of unsurpassed beauty and great diversity. Being only a two and a half hour drive from either Sydney or Canberra, it’s close to home and is just perfect for a short break or weekend away.

here are numerous wonderful spots in this heavenly region. They include the small and delightful village of Berry which started life as Broughton Creek, a private town dating back to the early 1800’s. Today it has a number of National Trust classified buildings, a museum and historical society and many antique and crafts stores. Surrounded by rich dairy country, below the coastal escarpment, there are local walking trails to enjoy, winetasting at nearby Coolangatta while a Country Fair Market is held on the first Sunday of each month. Be sure to enjoy a hearty meal at one of Berry’s country pubs or cafes, many of which specialise in local produce. In October don’t miss the Berry Garden Festival, when gardeners display their green-fingered expertise. The scenic roads from Berry to Kangaroo Valley have all the right ingredients for a perfect weekend - cafes, galleries, pubs, cabins in the bush and bushwalks - all set in a breathtakingly beautiful and dramatic countryside. Remnants of rainforest cling weekendsfortwo.com.au

to the steep escarpement, while the river and creeks criss cross the rich verdant valley. The small township of Kangaroo Valley developed around its river when the Hampden Bridge was built in 1898. This beautiful sandstone bridge is now the oldest suspension bridge in Australia and a popular spot for photography. Also worth visiting is the Pioneer Farm Museum, based on a typical 19th century farmhouse. Don’t miss a tour around one of the working fruit farms and marvel at the spectacular views from the Cambewarra Mountain lookout. 75

destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; South Coast

Inlet at Jervis Bay. Image courtesy of Nick Rains , Tourism New South Wales.

View from Cambewarra Lookout. Image courtesy of Adam Taylor , Tourism New South Wales.

Wrapped around the edge of the sparkling waters of majestic Jervis Bay, Huskisson attracts lovers of all watersports. With its well protected bayside beaches, boasting incredibly white sand, it offers fine opportunities for diving, snorkelling, sailing, fishing and kayaking.

Shopping in Berry. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund , Tourism New South Wales. 76

Huskisson is the proud centre for whale watching in the Shoalhaven region. Migrating mother whales and their calves can be sighted within the bay between May and November. Also most notably, Huskisson is home to Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most northerly fur seal colony which, along with dolphins, can be seen from cruise vessels. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Wharf and boatshed at Sussex Inlet. Image courtesy of Hamilton Lund, Tourism New South Wales.

The township itself is small and charming, harking back to an earlier less complicated time. The natural beauty of the area is seductive. Milton is a pocket sized and delightful agricultural town steeped in history. The first land grant in the area was in 1828 and the poet, Henry Kendall, was born on this family property in 1839. Located close to magnificent beaches, such as Mollymook, Milton is set on a ridge between lush green farmland valleys and the Great Dividing Range. The landscape to the west is dominated by the rock spire of Pidgeon House Mountain in the Morton National Park, where bushwalking trails and sublime views abound. Take the time to stroll amongst Milton’s fine historic buildings and homes and shop for organic produce and crafts. Nearby is the thriving fishing port of Ulladulla, which comes alive in the summer months when the annual game fishing tournaments are held. Local fisherman joins the quest for record size mako, marlin, mahi mahi and whaler to name a few. The Blessing of the Fleet at Easter is a colourful and moving occasion not to be missed.

Kangaroos at Pebbly Beach, Murramarang National Park. Image courtesy of Jann Tuxford, Tourism New South Wales. Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay. Image courtesy of Jann Tuxford, Tourism New South Wales.

Ulladulla is an area of beautiful lakes, lagoons and beaches and has a well established surf culture. Whilst there, be sure to enjoy some fresh seafood from the Fisherman’s Co-op on the wharf. Bathing in the historic sea pool is another popular activity. So there you have it just some of the treasure trove of Shoalhaven’s sparkling jewels.

Carolyn Jamieson

Read about Barefoot Springs, Bannisters Point Lodge and Tumbling Waters Retreat, great places to stay on the South Coast.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

the

Shoalhaven South Coast NSW

he Shoalhaven is blessed with some of the most scenic

Our fresh produce is bountiful and locally farmed and harvested,

landscapes on the east coast of Australia, from the lush

including delectable seafood, market gardens producing top-

rainforests of Kangaroo Valley to the miles of exquisite

quality fruit and vegetables, wine, dairy produce, coffee and olive

beaches along its eastern boundary. Stretching from

oil, all making a dining experience one to remember. Try succulent

Berry in the north to Durras in the south, our temperate climate

oysters from Greenwell Point, lobsters from Currarong or fresh fish

is comfortable all year round, with balmy sea breezes to cool in

from Ulladulla – just some of the seafood harvest that abounds in

summer and clean crisp air for long country walks in winter.

the Shoalhaven.

We have over 300,000 hectares of national parks and state forests,

For night-time fun you can join the laughter of a theatre restaurant,

109 beaches and 49 towns and villages with the main centres being

enjoy the entertainment of the many hotels and clubs or rage to the

Nowra, Jervis Bay and Ulladulla.

wee small hours at a nightclub.

The rugged terrain of the hinterland offers adventure for

Rich in local culture, our many annual festivals have become

bushwalkers, climbers and canoeists. Or, if quiet relaxation is your

landmarks on the getaway calendar. Winter is the time for our

perfect holiday, you can throw in a line at one of the hundreds

Shoalhaven Coast Wine Festival and several arts festivals that

of fishing spots such as Sussex Inlet, explore the many historic

are gaining a solid reputation for their high standards. We have

landmarks that dot the Shoalhaven or wander around the dozens

many vineyards within our boundary – some with cellar doors open to

of craft and antique shops.

the public and local tours make a wine-tasting weekend a great idea.

To tempt the tastebuds there are restaurants and cafés boasting

Our two main arts festivals are Escape Artsfest, held every year,

a smorgasbord of the fresh produce for which Shoalhaven has

and See Change, held every second year and incorporating the

become famous with a vast range of cuisines from traditional

much-loved ‘Little Archies’ exhibition (named with a nod to the

Australian to many international menus.

Archibald Prize). Aside from this, we have some popular festivals

Red H ot deals

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including the Blessing of the Fleet at Ulladulla, the Scarecrow Festival and the Milton Settlers Fair as well as music, kite and garden festivals Accommodation options cover the full gamut from luxury retreats through to award-winning bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels and motels, guesthouses, tourist and caravan parks, rental apartments and lots of holiday cottages and cabins. Check out our website, www.shoalhavenholidays.com.au for the excellent choice of accommodation and attractions.

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DRIVING TO THE SHOALHAVEN? Sydney to Nowra • 163km • 2 hours by car Canberra to Ulladulla • 200km • 2½ hours by car Melbourne to Ulladulla • 830km • 10 hours by car

stunning spring escapes

ULLADULLA GUESTHOUSE �� AAAT

100m from harbour, award-winning Elizans French Restaurant & Art Gallery. Heated pool, indoor and outdoor spas, sauna, gym & massage. From $199pp twin share incl: 2 nights, breakfast daily, dinner one night. Upgrades to exec. room with marble bathroom & private spa avail. @ $50pp t: 1800 700 905. www.guesthouse.com.au

SANDHOLME GUESTHOUSE �� AAAT

Luxury couples B&B retreat. Spa guestrooms, great espresso, a little wine, full breakfast. Close to restaurants. Packages available; . Check web site for prices and specials. Sandholme a touch of Class on Jervis Bay t: 02 4441 8855. www.sandholme.com.au

CUPITT’S WINERY A standout rural experience 5 mins. from Ulladulla, Milton and Mollymook with views to the Budawang Ranges and Burrill Lake. Open lunch Wed–Sun; dinner Fri/Sat. Weddings and functions. Vineyard Cottage (2 bedroom) accommodation includes wine cave tour. Wine tasting in historic stone Cellar Door Wed–Sun or by appointment. t: 02 4455 7888. www.cupittwines.com.au

SILOS ESTATE, BERRY

Award-winning accommodation, winery, gallery and restaurant set amidst vineyards. All suites are self contained, private and luxurious with expansive views to the escarpment, all breakfast supplies provided. Minutes from Berry and beaches. Sitting Rooms $195; Spa Suites $245 (per night, per couple). Mid-week rates available. t: 02 4448 6082. www.thesilos.com

Discover the natural beauty, warm welcome and the best of regional food and wine in the Shoalhaven on the South Coast of NSW, just 2 hours from Sydney – Sydney Shoalhaven

Play with the dolphins. Enjoy the view while you savour succulent local seafood. Who can beat fish and chips sitting by the dock of the bay. Sample a drop at awardwinning wineries. Bask on the world’s whitest sands. Swim in crystal-clear waters. Feast your eyes on visual arts. Explore wild national parks. Escape to a mountain retreat. Watch the tide roll away.

ENQUIRE 1300 662 808 or book online

www.shoalhavenholida

ys.com.au

SouTH CoAST NSW

beguiling mountain

hideaway

SOUTH COAST

BAREFOOT SPRINGS IN AN IrreSISTIBLe SeTTINg oN CAMBeWArrA MouNTAIN NeAr KANgAroo Valley and Berry, Barefoot Springs is just the place for a romantic escape, cocooned in gorgeous gardens and natural bush with glorious views to the coast and plenty of fresh mountain air to stir the senses. Within these tranquil surroundings, the accommodation is in a choice of three Spa Studio Cottages with private patios/balconies and direct access to the gardens. Freshly decorated with a new look for spring, each cottage has a two-person spa, TV/DVD, a cosy wood-fired heater for cool evenings and a well-appointed kitchenette. The Queen room in the main house has an ensuite and TV/DVD. With a list of things to do thoughtfully provided on the website, you might imagine yourselves out and about exploring this lovely part of the NSW South Coast – but somehow it doesn’t always work out that way. Waking to the beautiful birdsong and lovely environment is relaxing in itself, so expect a leisurely start to each day, coupled with the fact that hosts Kay and Tim Johnston specialise in lavish country hospitality making breakfast a treat to linger over. The 16-hectare property is a beguiling environment in itself – as well as beautiful gardens there are pockets of Australian Heritage listed rainforest, waterfalls, creeks and native wildlife including wombats, lyrebirds, parrots and blue wrens. of course there are many attractions nearby in Berry, the Kangaroo Valley, the Shoalhaven river and the coast. you might go surfing, whale watching or bush walking in the National Parks. you might indulge in massage therapies, play golf, go horse riding, canoeing, kayaking or fishing. Art lovers can visit Arthur Boyd’s Bundanon Homestead while other pleasures include visits to local wineries, markets and great local restaurants and cafes.

PHONE: 02 4446 0509 WEB: www.barefootsprings.com.au EMAIL: info@barefootsprings.com.au TARIFF: from $195/couple/night or $480/couple/2 night weekend including cooked breakfast. Rated 4 1/2 star and Green (environmentally friendly) Star by AAA Tourism weekendsfortwo.com.au

MID SOUTH COAST NSW

MOLLYMOOK

BANNISTERS POINT LODGE

South Coast bliss Bannisters Restaurant has long been regarded the best restaurant on the South Coast and this has been confirmed with the restaurant securing a coveted “NSW Restaurant and Catering Award for NSW Regional Restaurant of the Year 2009”.

rooms you’ll also have the indulgence of a spa bath. Extend the indulgence and make a booking at the Bannisters Day Spa overlooking the ocean. Starting with an invigorating steam shower, put yourself in the hands of a skilled massage therapist. Choose from a “Swedial” remedial massage, a luxurious Hawaiian or popular “Hot Rocks” massage. The Bannisters website has a comprehensive menu of beauty therapy services offered by the Spa.

Now some more exciting news is that the restaurant has just launched as “Rick Stein at Bannisters”. Rick has the famous Seafood Restaurant in the U.K. fishing village of Padstow and is bringing his recipes and seafood knowledge to Mollymook. Bannisters also has a lot more on offer with the 4.5 star boutique hotel also boasting views up the coast to nearby Jervis Bay. There are just 23 guest rooms plus eight deluxe suites at Bannisters – each fitted out with consummate style and good taste. You’ll feel yourself unwind the moment you step onto your private balcony. The Ocean Deluxe rooms all have sea views, while in the Spa Retreat 82

PHONE: 02 4455 3044 FAX: 02 4455 3451 WEB: www.bannisters.com.au EMAIL: info@bannisters.com.au TARIFF: from $230 couple/night with continental breakfast

If all you’re seeking is relaxation with a good book, the pool with its Pizza & Cocktail bar is the place for you. Laze away your days in the sun as you watch dolphins frolic off the rocks below. Situated at Mollymook on the NSW South Coast, it is located a short and beautiful 3 hour drive down the coast from Sydney or an easy 2 hours from Canberra. However, once you arrive…. you may find that you never want to leave. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Escape to Tumbling Waters Retreat at Stanwell Tops less than an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive south of Sydney CBD, surrounded by the Royal National Park. Stay in luxury accommodation with spectacular ocean views. Surrender to complete relaxation with a massage. Relax, indulge and celebrate in our new private lounge and dining room, exquisite cuisine, scenically breath taking views the perfect ambience for special occasions.

NEW PRIVATE LOUNGE & DINING ROOM

TUMBLING WATERS RETREAT Reservations: 61 t FNBJM JOGP!UXS DPN BV t XFCTJUF XXX UXS DPN BV

destination – Canberra

Axis restaurant, national Museum of Australia. Image courtesy of Australian Capital Tourism.

Canberra’s many

tourism highs

My travelling companion was clearly worried as we waited to take off on our early morning hot air balloon flight on a cold Canberra morning. “Are you sure there will be enough hot air,” she nervously asked our pilot.

s quick as a flash another passenger commented: “Of course there will be, this is Canberra, there’s enough hot air for all the balloons in Australia!”

A hot air balloon ride would have to be one of the best ways to see Canberra. It also helps put the city into perspective and provides an understanding of what Sir Walter Burley Griffin was thinking when he designed the city. This is even more obvious if you’ve visited the National Capital Exhibition. Interactive displays explain the people, events, history and design which contributed to the development of this fully planned city. Another great way to get a feel of Canberra is to spend time 84

around Lake Burley Griffin. The lake covers 664 hectares with a 40 kilometre shoreline and is ideal for such activities as rowing, sailing, paddle boating, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. A walk around the lake reveals beautiful lawns, gardens, trees and well known landmarks such as the National Gallery, High Court and the National Library. If you happen to be visiting between December and April and love the masterpieces you’ll want to stop off at the National Gallery. During this time it is staging Masterpieces from Paris which features 114 of some of the best-known works of modern art which draw millions of tourists to the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. Iconic works by Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Paul Cézanne, Georges Seurat, Pierre Bonnard, Claude Monet, Maurice Denis, Henri Toulouse-Lautrec and Édouard Vuillard will be on display. Highlights include Van Gogh’s Bedroom at Arles, Gauguin’s painting Tahitian women 1891, and Cézanne’s beloved Mount Saint-Victoire. If you’re interested in Australian art then a visit before November 1 is recommended. Until then the gallery is staging the works of one of Australia’s most famous impressionists, Frederick weekendsfortwo.com.au

Scenic bike ride along Lake Burley Griffin. Image courtesy of Australian Capital Tourism.

Vineyard. Image courtesy of Australian Capital Tourism.

David Campese II, 2000, Paul Newton. Image courtesy of National Portrait Gallery. Australian Capital Tourism. McCubbin. McCubbin: Last Impressions 1907-17 brings together 80 of his paintings. The Australian War Memorial is staging Sidney Nolan’s Gallipoli series until November 18. The exhibition features 82 drawings and paintings completed over a 20 year period. The world class memorial is one of those must visit attractions no matter what the time of the year. Its mission is to remember, interpret and understand the Australian experience of war and its enduring impact on Australian society Great art is on show all year round at the National Portrait Gallery. Here you’ll see more than 400 portraits of people who have shaped the nation including artists, musicians, entertainers, politicians, sports people and royalty. Favourites include Ned Kelly’s death mask and Howard Arkley’s portrait of Nick Cave. After a day’s exploration there’s no better way to spend an evening than enjoying a great meal. With over 300 restaurants, pubs and cafes there are plenty of options - ranging from simple, hearty family meals to stunning degustation menus. Locally produced wine is a feature of many restaurant menus. Winemaking started 160 years ago in the Canberra region and today there are over 33 wineries all within 35 minutes drive of the capital. These wineries cover a large altitudinal range of 300 to 800 metres. The variation in temperature, vineyard elevations, different soil types and the skills and character of the winemaker provide varieties in styles such as Sangiovese Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. The wineries also further enhance Canberra’s reputation as a great place for a short break or longer holiday.

Jenny Burns

Balloons over Commonwealth Place. Image courtesy of Australian Capital Tourism.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

Read about Kurrajong Hotel and York Canberra, great places to stay in Canberra, on the following pages.

CANBerrA ACT

KINGSTON

THE YORK CANBERRA

5 star city style ALreADy A FAVourITe WITH THe CorPorATe SeT, THIS CHIC BouTIQue residence has such a reputation for its warm and friendly atmosphere that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a highly desirable weekend destination for couples wanting to indulge in the many delights of Canberra. Located next to Capital Hill in the suburb of Kingston, The york has 25 contemporary studio, one or two-bedroom suites, each with a separate living/dining area and furnished with an emphasis on comfort. The use of timber, warm colours and other finishes creates a cosy retreat, whether you are staying for business or pleasure. The open-plan studios and suites each have kitchens, ensuites, balconies, TV/DVD/CD facilities, Foxtel, broadband and many extra features, including washer/dryers, valet grocery shopping and complimentary security parking. The fine-dining restaurant, Artespresso, in the same building, is open for lunch and dinner during the week and for breakfast at weekends. The york is also opposite Kingston Village, which is well known for its varied cuisine, from Vietnamese to Italian, so you can select something to suit your mood. Lovely Lake Burley griffin is just a few minutes away for walks or bike rides, and The york is just five minutes from the Parliamentary Triangle, so you can visit both old and new Parliament House and take in an exhibition at the Australian National Art gallery. There are many galleries and museums in Canberra, including the moving and informative War Memorial and Questacon, the fascinating science museum. Canberra also has its own wine trails, so you can sample a few of the cool-climate wines on a drive to discover some of the surrounding countryside. Then return to the city for a romantic dinner for two, maybe enjoyed in the privacy and comfort of your room at The york. 86

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PHONE: 02 6295 2333 FAX: 02 6295 9559 WEB: www.yorkcanberra.com.au EMAIL: theyork@yorkcanberra. com.au TARIFF: from $250/couple/night

weekendsfortwo.com.au

CANBERRA ACT

Iconic heritage

CANBERRA

HOTEL KURRAJONG On the National Circuit in Barton, a short distance from new Parliament House, the Hotel Kurrajong is a heritage boutique hotel which was relaunched under the new ownership of international hospitality group Laureate in December 2008. One of the first buildings in Canberra, it was designed in 1924 by the Commonwealth’s Chief Architect, John Smith Murdoch, who also designed old Parliament House. Hotel Kurrajong is a fine example of early Commonwealth architecture, influenced by the Prairie style of architects Frank Lloyd Wright and the visionary planner of Canberra, Walter Burley Griffin.

Beautifully restored, the 4 star rated hotel has 26 superbly appointed rooms featuring contemporary furnishings, king size bed, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, in-room safe, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, mini bar, free Broadband Internet access, flat screen TV and free Foxtel (11 channels). The hotel provides 24 hour check-in and has off-street parking and a 24 hour business centre which are both complimentary to guests.

The property was used as a base by Ben Chifley, a minister in the Curtin Government during World War II, who later became Australian Prime Minister. Guests who wish to ‘live the history’ can make a special request to stay in the Chifley Room and a new point of interest is a series of four interpretive panels in the foyer depicting the history of the property.

An additional attraction at Hotel Kurrajong is Isabella’s Cafe and Bar, open seven days for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner and with the option of outdoor dining on balcony or in the courtyard, weather permitting.

Phone: 02 6234 4444 Web: www.hotelkurrajong.com.au Email: reservations@aihs.edu.au Tariff: From $200 night, low season.

Perfect for a weekend away, the hotel is conveniently located in the quiet Barton area, adjacent to the parliamentary triangle and close to the cultural and tourism heart of Canberra.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

Victoria Bright

Mansfield

New South Wales

Mount Buller

Eildon

Gipsy Point LAKES ENTRANCE

MARYSVILLE Healesville

MELBOURNE

Bairnsdale

OLINDA EMERALD Traralgon

Moe Rosebud

LAKES ENTRANCE

Sale

Morwell Mirboo North

Rye

Wonthaggi

Phillip Island

Bordertown

Leongatha

Yarram

Warracknabeal

Bendigo

WARTOOK VALLEY Stawell Halls Gap Ararat

HEATHCOTE

Maryborough

Castlemaine

Hepburn Springs

Lancefield

BALLARAT

Casterton Hamilton

Elaine

Mount Gambier

WARRNAMBOOL PORT FAIRY

Mount Macedon

MELBOURNE

Geelong Winchelsea

Mortlake

Portland

Shepparton

St Arnaud

Horsham Naracoorte

Echuca

Charlton

Rosebud Colac

Torquay Lorne

Wonthaggi

APOLLO BAY

weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Melbourne

Collins Street Shopping. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

’ Melbourne s winning formula M

elburnians shrug with resignation at their reputation as sports freaks. To a fair extent, it’s deserved. Right now, locals are giving their credit cards a workout, planning hats and high heels for the spring racing carnival and the festivities in between. We know it is summer when the hot sun blazes over an MCG packed with cricket-lovers and, a little later in the New Year, the whole city goes tennis mad when the Australian Open comes to town. But when the warmer weather arrives, Melbourne is a city of varied pleasures, and not all of them are about sport. Perhaps it’s because we have a genuine, cold winter that we somehow have a sense of waking from hibernation when the sun emerges. People come out to stroll down the wide streets and tiny laneways, to visit farmers markets, to prowl around docklands and to eat fish and chips on the sand at bayside beaches. The restaurateurs are turning off the gas heaters and diners are enjoying eating outside again. Melbourne is renowned for its fabulous food, from the renowned top-end restaurants run by celebrity chefs to the cheap and cheerful cafes and eateries you can find everywhere. Likewise the city’s great pubs and bars,

weekendsfortwo.com.au

Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

Yarra River. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria. City Circle Tram, Flinders Street. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

Shopping, Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

so cosy in winter, are throwing open their bi-fold doors and sprucing up their beer gardens as we return to the season of outdoor revelry. Melbourne’s a great place for a spot of Christmas shopping, itself an elite sport for many of us. Visitors will find Melbourne’s shady lanes and grand old buildings filled with interesting bits and pieces, many painstakingly designed and lovingly handcrafted. It’s a great time of year, too, to snare a bargain – factory outlet shopping has boomed here in recent years, and our love of 90

colourful spring fashion guarantees there is plenty of browsing and buying to do. And when the sun comes out, the weekend markets bloom like the famous roses at Flemington Racecourse. Apart from the better-known tourist markets at the Arts Centre, in bayside St Kilda and the much-loved Queen Victoria market, there are many small markets offering an array of quirky, hand-made one-off items, as well as the farmers’ markets that are cropping up throughout the inner suburbs, overflowing with fresh, healthy produce and delicious home-made goodies. Melburnians love the arts with a passion to rival their love of sports, and when the warm weather begins to bite, the city’s cool, interior cultural oases become a blissful haven. Both the Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square and the NGV International in St Kilda Road are peaceful and welcoming, with a wide array of ever-changing, always challenging painting, sculpture, photography, fashion and decorative arts to enjoy, as well as interesting special events such as concerts on weekends. It’s refreshing, too, to lose yourself in a matinee performance, and come blinking back out into the light when the heat of the day has passed. Melbourne is alive with musicals, plays, dance and concerts, which you can enjoy in one of the city’s grand old theatres, at the Victorian Arts Centre or at the spectacular new state-of-the-art Recital Centre. But despite its big city culture and commerce, Melbourne has many simple pleasures that make it a perfect place for visitors to simply play tourist and unwind. Sit by our famous “upside down” river and watch the rowing boats and ferries pass. Get lost in one of the beautiful old-fashioned parks and gardens that dot the city. Lick gelati with the wind in your face at Port Melbourne beach. Rattle around town on the City Circle tram. Choose an outdoor table on an interesting street and indulge in some people-watching while sipping a lovingly-made latte. There considerably more to this town than serves, volleys, cover drives and grand finals.

Michelle Fincke Read about the Melbourne Marriott Hotel, a great place to stay in Melbourne, on the following page.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

MELBouRNE VIC

romance

Re-ignite the

MELBOURNE

MELBOURNE MARRIOTT HOTEL THE MELBouRNE MARRIoTT RE-IGNITE THE RoMANCE PACKAGE. Imagine getting away from the hustle and bustle of the weekend routine. Although we all love our kids and spend the weekend running them all over town, wouldn’t it be nice to get back to being just the two of you! Even if it’s only for a weekend to Re-Ignite the Romance! Highlights of the weekend can be found in simple things - being able to enjoy a relaxed buffet breakfast and espresso coffees to start the day, all part of the package

PHONE: 1800 331 118 FAX: 03 9660 1169 WEB: www.melbournemarriott.com.au EMAIL: Melbourne.reservations@marriotthotels.com TARIFF: Re-Ignite package from $270/night, minimum 2 night stay. Booking code: RPkW. conditions apply. subject to availability and valid until 10 Jan 2010. dinner excludes beverages. weekendsfortwo.com.au

and then literally lose yourself in the city. Board the free city circle tram from the corner of La Trobe Street which takes you right around the city, letting you get on and off as you please. The great thing with this city is that there is always something for both of you, whether sports or Spring Racing for him or arts and culture such as Chicago, Jersey Boys or the Salvador Dali exhibition for her. The Marriott’s Romance package includes a sensational dinner for 2 in Essence restaurant before a night out on the town, either at one of the theatre shows or putting on the dancing shoes. Re-Ignite the Romance with this extraordinary 2 nights’ Romantic package where you can Re-Ignite and Rediscover each other in this perfect way. Remember – enjoy it, because kids will still be there the next weekend, the next and the next…. 91

destination – Dandenongs and Yarra Valley

The magical offerings of

mountains and valleys

Country Lane, Yarra Valley. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

hile the geography of the dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley may be different both areas have much in common – great scenery for a start. In the dandenong Ranges it’s forests of lush ferns, tall trees and waterfalls. In the Yarra Valley it’s the ever changing colours of the vineyards and farmland. Tourism is essential to both regions so visitors are extremely well catered for. As a result fantastic restaurants, numerous art and craft galleries and a huge array of accommodation options are in plentiful supply. Both areas are also easy to explore. There are numerous tourist drives which are well signposted and which take in the most popular attractions. One of the best known is the Mt dandenong 92

Tourist Road, a 30-kilometre drive between Upper Fern Tree Gully and Montrose. At the same time the dandenongs also offer some great walks. The dandenong Ranges National Park, for example, features 300 kilometres of walking tracks. It’s possible to spot a cute, prickly echidna, along with laughing kookaburras, colourful parrots and squawking cockatoos. The elusive lyrebird is often nearby too, but its tricky habit of mimicking other birds makes it difficult to pinpoint. during spring the dandenongs are renowned for their fantastic gardens full of striking rhododendrons, azaleas, roses, tulips and daffodils. The dandenongs are also home to one of Victoria’s iconic tourist experiences, Puffing Billy. This historic steam train huffs and weekendsfortwo.com.au

Vineyards, Yarra Valley. Image courtesy of Dale Smalley and Tourism Victoria.

Emerald Lake. Image courtesy of Dale Smalley and Tourism Victoria.

puffs its way through fern-filled gullies and small townships such as Emerald, Cockatoo and Gembrook. For a romantic experience couples often enjoy the train’s innovative dinner service after daytime passengers have left. From Mount dandenong you have the full panorama of the Yarra Valley below. The valley is one of Victoria’s oldest wine growing areas and is regarded as one of the world’s finest cool climate wine regions. Currently around 3800 hectares of the valley are under vine, around two percent of Australia’s total area. The valley is home to over 80 wineries, 50 of which are open to the public.

Yarra Valley Grape Grazing Festival. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

While chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wines dominate, the repertoire includes excellent examples of shiraz, riesling, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc. The Valley is also a food lover’s delight. There’s everything from game meat, freshwater salmon and trout and salmon caviar to organically grown fruit, berries and vegetables, handmade cheese, pastas and preserves on offer. While the dandenongs and Yarra Valley are only a short drive from Melbourne to fully appreciate the fruits and beauty of both areas a longer stay is almost essential.

Read about Mercure Yarra Valley Balgownie Estate and Lochiel Luxury Accommodation, great places to stay in the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley area on the following pages.

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Yarra Ranges National Park. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

YARRA VALLEY VIC

discover Balgownie Estate

and rediscover each other

YARRA VALLEY

BALGOWNIE ESTATE VINEYARd RESORT & SPA As leaves return to the grapevines and the seasonal warmth spreads over the glorious hills, Mercure Yarra Valley Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort and Spa is the perfect place to reinvigorate. Combining this tranquil location with luxurious 4.5 star resort accommodation means guests can have it all – from a dedicated spa and health club, to a quality restaurant and even a cellar door with the estate’s award-winning wines on the doorstep. There are 65 suites featuring a contemporary design that fits snugly into the landscape. Each has a large living room, kitchenette, separate bedroom, an indulgent bathroom with oversized spa bath and most a private balcony. The resort’s Natskin Spa Retreat offers more pampering: signature skin and body treatments and water therapies are guaranteed to relax and rejuvenate. For a more active pursuit of well-being, the health club has a gym, steam room and heated indoor, multi-station experience pool. Stroll among the vines, or travel further afield to enjoy the serene Yarra Valley from on high – perhaps a sunrise hot air balloon flight or helicopter ride. After all that activity, Rae’s Restaurant comes as a welcome reward, with excellent service and an innovative menu prepared by the executive chef using the freshest seasonal produce. Each dish is matched to one of Balgownie’s excellent wines – later, treat yourself to a drinkable souvenir of your memorable weekend from the cellar door. The pleasures of Balgownie Estate are all on offer with the tempting Rediscover Each other package. Stay in a 4.5 star deluxe spa suite accommodation and indulge yourselves in a massage with Geisha Bath at Natskin Spa Retreat. Bask in the tranquility of this divine customised bath treatment in a candlelit suite with two full body relaxation massages. A gourmet buffet breakfast for two in Rae’s Restaurant completes a package that could reignite any romance. All this, from $516 per suite per night, for stays until end February 2010. Contact the resort to find out more.

PHONE: 03 9730 0700 WEB: www.balgownieestate.com.au EMAIL: enquiry@balgownieestate.com.au TARIFF: From $246 night/low season room only 94

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DANDENoNGS/YARRA VALLEY VIC

indulgent retreat

OLINdA

LOCHIEL LUXURY ACCOMMOdATION SET AMoNGST THE GARDENS AND THE TALL NATIVE TIMBERS oF THE Dandenong Ranges, only an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Lochiel’s contemporary mountain cottages are a stylish and comfortable alternative to frilly B&B’s. Moments from Credo Restaurant and Ranges Café Bar Restaurant, the tri-level cottages are especially designed for indulgent and relaxing stays for couples. Features include tree-top balconies, large oval spas, king or queen-sized beds, wood fires and beautifully appointed bathrooms with large windows overlooking the forest canopy creating a real sense of place. The attractive, original three-bedroom cottage has two bathrooms and a large, outdoor spa and is perfect for two or three couples to share. This is a very tranquil place to stay with no major decisions to be made apart from which movies to watch on your wide screen TV with surround sound, which path to take

PHONE: 03 9751 2300 FAX: 03 9751 1852 WEB: www.lochielaccommodation.com EMAIL: info@lochielaccommodation.com TARIFF: from $250/couple/night midweek (Monday to Thursday). weekendsfortwo.com.au

for a stroll through the forest or whether to dine at Ranges or Credo, both run by Lochiel’s restaurateur owners. The tariff includes a breakfast at Ranges Cafe Bar Restaurant which serves light meals all day and modern cuisine with exotic flavours by night. Try the Ranges Big Breakfast, zucchini and sweetcorn fritters, toasted coconut bread with homemade local raspberry jam or some of the many other delicious items on the menu. Credo Restaurant is famous for its seasonal, modern Italian dinner menu while all-day breakfast and lunch are also served here at weekends. You can forget about your car altogether if you wish when you stay at Lochiel as the mountain village of olinda is an easy walk away with galleries, cafes and speciality shops such as the olinda Sweet Company selling sweets from around the world. Further away you can take a Yarra Valley wine tour, go ballooning or visit the Healesville Sanctuary. 95

destination – Gippsland

The many delights of

Lakes Entrance

A late afternoon walk along the water’s edge in Lakes Entrance is a truly scenic experience.

do the work there’s also a Fishing Co-operative which sells the freshest fish imaginable.

Not only do you have the reflection of the setting sun on the town’s many boats moored in the harbour, there’s the joy of walking along a near deserted beach. A mystical salty sea spray blanketing the coast in the distance adds to the serene picture.

Lakes Entrance is also a great base from which to explore many of East Gippsland’s other attractions.

Then there are the numerous birds including the always comical pelicans and majestic black swans. Follow such a walk with a great seafood meal and you’ll understand why Lakes Entrance has been attracting visitors for well over 100 years. As the name suggests Lakes Entrance is where the Gippsland Lakes meet the Southern Ocean. The Gippsland Lakes system is Australia’s biggest and most beautiful expanse of inland waterways with over 400 square kilometres of lakes, rivers, lagoons and islands to explore. Lakes Entrance also offers really easy access to the Ninety Mile Beach (also aptly named as it offers 90 miles of wonderful sandy beach). All you need do is walk across a footbridge and you’re on the beach. One of the best places to fully appreciate Lakes Entrance’s stunning location is from the lookout at Kalimna Hill. On a clear day you’ll see some 60 kilometres of inland lakes, the entrance to the ocean, Ninety Mile Beach and Bass Strait. Given all this water it’s no surprise to discover Lakes Entrance is an angler’s delight. There’s no shortage of operators on hand to help you catch your own fish. However if you prefer to let others

Paynesville. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the lakes region is to join a cruise. You’ll find several on offer which also provide interesting information about the lakes system.

These include the 1892 built Nyerimilang Homestead and Park which is renowned for its gardens and birdlife. The homestead’s semi-formal gardens and lawns and walking tracks attract many species of birds including honeyeaters, waterbirds and birds of prey. Magnificent views across Reeve Channel and the lakes beyond are another highlight. Great views are also on offer on the drive from Lakes Entrance to Metung. The waterside village of Metung is regarded as one of Victoria’s most picturesque villages. Sitting on Bancroft Bay, it’s renowned for its village green and hotel overlooking the water. Another great way to experience Metung is by joining one of the commercial cruises which operate between the town and Lakes Entrance. Paynesville is another pretty village. It’s surrounded by the Gippsland Lakes on three sides. Its canals and inlets offer plentiful sheltered moorings for yachts and cruisers. Anglers, windsurfers, jet skiers and water skiers also flock to the town to take to the water. A ferry operates to Raymond Island, which is one of the best places in Victoria to go koala spotting. It’s also home to over 60 bird species and many species of ground orchids and wildflowers. Lake Tyers is also renowned for its beauty as it’s bordered by ocean, state forest and a river that meanders inland to Nowa Nowa. Wildlife and scenery are the highlights of a trip to Lake Tyers State Park. Lyrebirds, black-faced flycatchers, brown warblers, wonga pigeons, the rufous fantail, echidnas, goannas, wombats, wallabies and kangaroos are all known to live in the park. A little further afield you’ll find Croajingolong National Park, a most remarkable area, thanks to its diverse ecosystems and incredible natural beauty comprising of coast, riverlands and hinterland. Indeed the area is so special it’s now a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Read about Bellevue on the Lakes and The Esplanade Resort and Spa, great places to stay in Gippsland on the following pages.

weekendsfortwo.com.au

Lakes Entrance. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

GIPPSLAND LAKES VIC

Lakes Entrance

Bellevue on the Lakes A resort for all seasons and all reasons… Bellevue on the Lakes has a unique blend of attractions to make every guest welcome, whatever their holiday plans. Situated in one of Victoria’s best-loved seaside towns, picturesque Lakes Entrance in Gippsland, it’s a place for couples to relax and rejuvenate in seclusion and comfort, with spa suites, room service and an intimate cocktail bar. But it’s also ideal for those who love the pleasures of a resort – indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, spas and saunas, sporting and BBQ facilities and the highly regarded Boathouse Restaurant, serving fresh local produce from 7am each day. Bellevue on the Lakes makes a perfect base, too, for exploring the nearby natural attractions of the area, just under a four-hour drive from Melbourne. It takes 20 minutes to walk to famed Ninety Mile Beach and once there, you can spend the whole day strolling one of Australia’s best, longest and cleanest beaches. Lakes Entrance is renowned for its fabulous fishing, and you can hire a boat to explore the gentle, intriguing waterways. Better still, bring your own boat – Bellevue on the Lakes boasts a private jetty for guests’ use. And if you really must mix a little work with pleasure, there is high speed wireless broadband internet access and the facilities and services to make business run smoothly. Functions, from conferences to weddings, are welcome. Bellevue on the Lakes offers a dazzling range of accommodation options, from stylish motel units with room to work and lounge to self-contained two-bedroom apartments perfect for groups of family and friends. There are also romantic deluxe boathouse spa suites, where you can relax with a champagne and watch the twinkling boat lights on the water. 98

PHONE: 03 5155 3055 FAX: 03 5155 3529 WEB: www.bellevuelakes.com EMAIL: info@bellevuelakes.com TARIFF: from $149/couple/night

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GIPPSLAND LAKES VIC

Lakes Entrance

The Esplanade Resort & Spa

The true spirit of the

Gippsland Lakes

PHONE: 03 5155 3533; 03 5155 3933 WEB: www.esplanaderesort.com.au EMAIL: holiday@esplanaderesort.com.au TARIFF: from $144 couple/night For additional information phone 1800 55 77 59 or visit www.esplanaderesort.com.au for discounted rates. Esplanade Escape Package: 2 nights in a Hotel Room, Full Hot Breakfast for 2 daily, $50 Shifting Sands Dinner Voucher, $50 Illuka Day Spa Voucher, Sparkling Wine on arrival, Late checkout All for $398, save $174. weekendsfortwo.com.au

For generations Lakes Entrance, at the entrance to the glorious Gippsland lakes system in East Gippsland Victoria, has been a much loved holiday destination. The Esplanade Resort and Spa brings a fresh dimension with cutting edge design and an incomparable location.

While there’s plenty to do in and around Lakes Entrance, you may find it tempting just to stay put and indulge in a relaxing massage, facial or body treatment at Illuka Day Spa, which specialises in natural skin care using Li’Tya, an all natural Australian spa care range and re-energising hydrotherapy treatments.

There’s a wide selection of room styles, most have spectacular views which could feature the Gippsland Lakes, Parkland, Bullock Island or the charming fishing village of Lakes Entrance and its trawler fleet.

For exercise, there’s a heated indoor swimming pool with large spa, lagoon pool and floodlit tennis court. There’s even two barbecue and picnic areas around the resort providing more reason just to enjoy the facilities and relaxing atmosphere of the resort.

Lakes Entrance is an easy 319km east of Melbourne via the Princes Highway and is perfect for a weekend away for two or a party of old friends for a midweek break any time of the year. Resort facilities include “Shifting Sands” restaurant open all day until late, seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You’ll enjoy the most delectable gourmet cuisine including seafood, fresh from the Southern Ocean.

The Gippsland Lakes in Eastern Australia are the largest inland waterways on the continent – with some 400 square kilometres of lakes, rivers, lagoons and islands to discover. Go fishing, hire a boat or take a lake cruise, go canoeing, horse riding, bushwalking, historical walks, visit wineries and the famous Buchan caves. Where better to discover it all than at The Esplanade Resort & Spa? 99

destination – Great ocean Road Twelve Apostles. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

Cruising the key to the

Great Ocean Road The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most spectacular drives no matter what the time of year. But it’s in the warmer months that those who make the trek along this Victorian icon can take advantage of all its magical components.

he 250 kilometre road accesses some of Victoria’s most popular beach resorts and the key to a successful trip is ensuring you allow plenty of time.

Many travellers make the mistake of trying to fit too much into a short period of time which is never a good idea. It’s especially fraught with danger in the summer months when the road is very busy.

Having time means you can explore such delights as Torquay which is regarded as Victoria’s surfing capital. Some of the biggest names in surf wear and accessories are headquartered here while the Surfworld Museum captures the spirit of the popular pursuit in words, pictures and hands-on displays. Then take a detour to Bells Beach, home to world class surfing competitions. If you’re keen for a swim Lorne offers a sheltered two kilometre beach bordered by lawn, gum trees and picnic and barbecue areas. At Apollo Bay you can swim in the clear water, sea kayak with local seals, indulge in some deep-sea fishing, learn to surf, or horse ride along the beach at sunset. For the less energetic there are the numerous art and craft galleries to explore. If you’re a keen walker then allow time to explore at least part of the Great Ocean Walk. The walk stretches 100 kilometres from Apollo Bay to Glenample, which is just before the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre. The walk

Bells Beach. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

Port Fairy. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

passes through the beautiful national parks and overlooks the Marine National Park and Sanctuary. It’s designed so walkers can ‘step on and step off’ the trail at a number of places, completing short, day or overnight hikes.

There’s also a range of boutique, antique, art and craft shops to peruse, local artists to see at work and museums to explore. Or you can relax and enjoy the fine food and wine on offer at one of the many great pubs, cafes and restaurants in town.

If you’re a lover of forests then a trip to the Otway National Park is a must. It’s home to magnificent tall-timbered rainforests showcasing nature at its best. Waterfalls, lakes, glades of massive tree ferns and native animals abound. Another attraction is the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. Around 600 metres of elevated walkways, nearly 40 metres from the ground, provide captivating views of the forest from its ceiling. At ground level, a two kilometre walk through the lush rain forest floor is just as enjoyable.

Like so many towns and attractions along the Great Ocean Road the more time you spend here the more you’ll appreciate its many charms.

Of course no visit along the Great Ocean Road is complete without a stop at Port Campbell National Park, home to such natural beauties as the Twelve Apostles, Island Arch, the Razorback, Muttonbird Island, Thunder Cave, the Blowhole, Bakers Oven, London Bridge and the Grotto. You’ll want to allow plenty of time here.

Read about Chocolate Gannets and Victoria Apartments, great places to stay on the Great ocean Road, on the following pages.

Torquay. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

Also worth a long visit is the charming old fishing village of Port Fairy. Here you’ll find wide streets, great Norfolk pines and many fine examples of the architecture of the 1800s. Indeed more than 50 buildings are classified by the National Trust. Follow one of the town’s historic walking trails and discover charming, fully restored white washed cottages, built by whalers and seamen, beside Georgian-style merchants’ homes and grand public buildings.

Great otway National Park. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell National Park. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD VIC

The only 5 star escape on the Great Ocean Road APOLLO BAY

CHOCOLATE GANNETS Chocolate Gannets is built with the love and an understanding of all the feel-good things we really want from a weekend away. Overlooking Apollo Bay opposite the beach, Chocolate Gannets’ four villas are designed to suit their setting. Sitting lightly on the hillside, their wave-shaped rooflines reflect the surf which rolls into the bay. The units feature the coveted AAA Tourism Five Star Rating and AAA Tourism Green Star Accreditation, awarded for commitment to the environment and ‘green’ initiatives. The units are perfect for an indulgent break for two, for two couples or maybe a family to share. Chocolate Gannets is one of the few five star self contained properties to welcome children.

PHONE 1300 500 139 WEB www.chocolategannets.com.au EMAIL: info@chocolategannets.com.au (online booking service) Tariff from $290-$550 villa/night. 102

The villas have two bedrooms each with their own spacious luxurious living area and bathroom, complete with a spa bath offering ocean views. The kitchen comes fully equipped with everything you need including an espresso machine. There’s a barbecue on the wide decking area for cooking or outdoor dining. The linen has just been upgraded and now features duvet covers made from 100 per cent long staple combed cotton which is woven in a pique style, creating a subtle geometric pattern and fine texture. As well as being stylish, the fabric helps regulate the temperature – ensuring a superb sleep. The bathrobes are equally as luxurious. During the cooler months a warm stay is ensured with fully ducted central heating and a contemporary sleek wood fire. During the summer months air-conditioning ensures the temperature indoors suits your exact requirements. Given Chocolate Gannets is only two and a half hours from Melbourne and ideally located along the Great Ocean Road, it is the ideal base from which to explore the area’s many famous attractions. Particularly popular is the two and a half kilometre walk along the beach to Apollo Bay, where you’ll find great cafes, restaurants and a fisherman’s co-op. weekendsfortwo.com.au

GREAT oCEAN RoAD VIC

PORT FAIRY

THE VICTORIA APARTMENTS

discover the

magic of Port Fairy

PORT FAIRY

THE VICTORIA APARTMENTS IF You EVER NEED A REASoN To EXPLoRE THE ENTIRE GREAT oCEAN RoAD in Victoria, this is it. The sparkling new Victoria Apartments are located in the historic fishing village of Port Fairy, a short drive west of Warrnambool and the end of one of the world’s most spectacular drives. As modern and stylish as The Victoria Apartments are, you’ll find the colourful history of this town on the beautiful Moyne River port is reflected in the architecture in a variety of ways. Blue stone fences and walls show the craftsmanship of the colonial era, whilst all the comforts of modern life are at your fingertips. Choose from one bedroom suites, two bedroom apartments and even a luxurious three bedroom townhouse. You’ll find identical attention to detail in the soft furnishings and fittings. Everything you might need for your days in Port Fairy has been anticipated and the staff are delighted to make suggestions as how you can make the most of your stay. Make time to stroll around Port Fairy, where no fewer than 50 National Trust heritage buildings dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries can be admired and explored. Port Fairy has a vibrant program of events all year round and you’ll find details of these on the Victoria Apartments website. There are some excellent midweek and out of season specials, so be sure to bookmark the Victoria Apartments and find the ideal date for that special escape for two or family holiday in this delightful corner of Victoria. For best available rates please visit our website www.thevictoria.com.au. weekendsfortwo.com.au

PHONE: 03 5568 1160 FAX: 03 5568 1177 WEB: www.thevictoria.com.au EMAIL: info@thevictoria.com.au TARIFF: from $144/couple/night

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destination – Adelaide Free concerts for race goers at Clipsal 500 Adelaide. Image courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission.

Adelaide ’s special events Over the years Adelaide has gained a reputation for its special events. Further enhancing that reputation are the many festivals and sporting events planned in the months ahead.

entertainment, visual arts exhibitions, master classes, forums, a late night club and much more.

There’s everything from world class opera to a top international cycling event.

WOMADelaide is regarded as one of the most significant and unique annual events on the Australian arts, cultural and entertainment calendar offering music, art and dance in one of the most beautiful outdoor festival sites in Australia - Adelaide’s historic Botanic Gardens. Next year’s event will occur between March 5 and 8.

Since its launch in 1960 the Adelaide Festival has created a strong tradition of innovation and inspirational performances drawing on selections of very diverse art forms from across Australia and around the world. Held in the warm South Australian autumn every ‘even’ year, this is a large-scale multi-arts event of extraordinary richness and diversity. Highlights of the 2010 festival, to be held from February 26 to March 14, include opera, theatre, dance, classical and contemporary music, cabaret, new media events, Adelaide Writers’ Week (the largest literary festival in the world), outdoor 104

The Adelaide Fringe is the largest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere renowned for fresh ideas, spontaneity and fun. On an international scale the Adelaide Fringe is rivaled only by the Edinburgh Fringe. Artists from across the globe participate alongside home-grown talent and will transform Adelaide into a cultural hub of activity from February 19 to March 14.

For sports lovers there are such events as the Clipsal 500 Adelaide, a four day carnival offering the best in V8 Supercar racing. The event is conducted on one of the world’s finest city street circuits (formerly used for the Formula 1 Grand Prix) and is the first race of the year for the supercars. At the same time there’s far more to offer than just fast cars. Other highlights include free concerts for race goers, fashion weekendsfortwo.com.au

Clipsal 500 Adelaide kicks off the V8 season in style. Image courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission. The Clipsal 500 celebrations. Image courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission.

Over 7,000 people join the public ride of the 2009 Tour Down Under - the Mutual Community Challenge Tour. Image courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission.

parades, an air show, stunt demonstrations, family areas, and the Murray Walker Extreme Machines car display exhibiting the finest and most expensive automobile exotica from around the world. Clipsal is scheduled for March 11 to 14. On March 20 and 21, 2010, Adelaide will host the fi fth leg of the IRB Sevens World Series for the fourth consecutive year. Conducted over two days and nights at Adelaide Oval, the Adelaide Sevens sees 16 international teams competing for points that go towards the International Rugby Board (IRB) Sevens Series. Cycling legend Lance Armstrong is returning to South Australia to compete in the Santos Tour Down Under cycling race from January 17 to 24. It will be the first time Armstrongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new team, Team RadioShack, will compete anywhere in the world.

World Tennis Challenge (WTC) is a team competition between four countries featuring one current and one past player from each country. The inaugural event held in 2009 was deemed a great contest and the 2010 event, scheduled from January 12 to 14, is expected to build on this success. Australian tennis legend Pat Cash and Henri Leconte have already signed up to take part in 2010. So whether your interest lies in sport or the arts, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure to find something to inspire you in the upcoming months.

Read about Grand Chifley, a great place to stay in Adelaide, on the following page. Huge crowds celebrate the Adelaide Festival. Image courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission.

The largest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere, Adelaide Fringe. Image courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission.

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ADELAIDE SA

ADELAIDE

GRAND CHIFLEY ADELAIDE

Fresh and sophisticated

BLENDING HARMONIOUSLY WITH ITS LOCATION, OPPOSITE THE PICTURESQUE South Terrace parklands, the Grand Chifley Adelaide has opened after a nine million dollar refurbishment to the original property. Catering to a broad range of travellers, the 4.5 star Grand Chifley Adelaide features 138 guest rooms and suites combining contemporary design and comfort. The room options range from Deluxe Queen or Twin rooms to Executive King, while the Himeji and Victoria Suites have King beds and luxurious spa baths and lovely views to the Adelaide Hills. Video on demand, wireless broadband and private balconies are features of every room so you can be sure to have everything you need whichever you choose. Fresh, sophisticated and with exceptional service and facilities, the Grand Chifley Adelaide is the perfect choice for your weekend stay in a location that is close to the best of the city and its surrounds yet in a welcoming and calm environment that’s a pleasure to come home to at the end of the day. Free onsite parking is also a welcome bonus.

PHONE: 08 8223 2800 WEB: www.grandchifley.com EMAIL: reservations.adelaide@grandchifley.com TARIFF: From $145/night including breakfast for two. 106

Adelaide is a beautiful city, famous for its galleries, architecture and festivals. This is also South Australia’s food capital with a fantastic choice of cafes, bars and restaurants, many showcasing the exceptional local produce which you can also appreciate on a visit to the Central Markets, selling everything from fruit and vegetables to olives, olive oils and handmade cheeses and with hip cafes of its own. With some of Australia’s most noted wine regions on the doorstep, Adelaide is the ideal base for leisurely drives through areas including the Adelaide Hills, with its many wineries and galleries, or the Barossa and Clare Valleys. If you haven’t visited before, make this the year you fall in love with Adelaide – and the Grand Chifley Adelaide! weekendsfortwo.com.au

Tasmania Devonport

CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Scamander

HOBART

Port Arthur

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destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tasmania

Be captivated

by Tasmania

Wineglass Bay from Mt Maria. Image courtesy of Tourism Tasmania. Cradle Mountain. Image courtesy of Tourism Tasmania.

A long time ago, Tasmania wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t regarded as the ideal destination by visitors. A cold and lonely island, it had corners so remote and forbidding that it proved the perfect place to accommodate the worst criminals. The brutal stone prisons built there and feared by all were virtually escape proof.

he shells of those mournful buildings remain, but now, of course, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be hard-pressed to imagine a more hospitable place for visitors than Tasmania. Its raw, rugged natural beauty and pristine wilderness still inspire awe, which is now tempered with creature comforts; excellent accommodation and facilities, beautiful food made with incomparable locally-grown produce, world-class wineries and breweries, gentle, beguiling cities that wear their fascinating history on their sleeves. 108

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Tasmania is a traveller’s destination for all seasons, but there’s no doubt that the warmer months are particularly inviting. As the heat descends on mainland Australia, Tasmania has the antidote to the summer madness. It stays cooler here, with its shady green interior and high granite outcrops. It also has beaches to enjoy – long, breathtaking beaches on which the only footprints you’ll see all day will be your own. Surfers can find their own private break and divers will relish the clean, clear water and abundant sea life. Freycinet, on the east coast, is the perfect summer escape. Granite peaks tower over tranquil bushland, which descends to the edge of sandy beaches and dazzling blue water, ideal for a cool off or to explore by canoe. The West Coast beaches, on the other hand, are unforgettable – wild and woolly, with huge waves rolling in off the southern ocean. A brisk walk along the waterline here completely redefines invigorating. The centre for exploring the west is the small town of Strahan, gateway to the World Heritage wilderness area in the south-western corner of the state. Settlers built Strahan to support the fledgling industry in Huon pine, and even now it has the unmistakable feel of a frontier town – close to the rugged bush and the sea, steeped in history, with a feeling of cosy isolation. From here you can explore the ruins of the Sarah Island prison or the waterways leading into the wilderness, travel further afield to the mining towns nearby and ride the famed West Coast Railway.

Ocean Beach. Image courtesy of Tourism Tasmania.

It’s the wilderness that beckons many mainlanders to Tasmania. Some of Australia’s iconic bushwalks can be found amid the dense bushland and along the razor-sharp spurs. Nothing captures the imagination quite like the Cradle Mountain walk. But contact with the wilderness doesn’t necessarily require thermal underwear, polar sleeping bags and a tracking beacon. Organised tours can take you deep into the Tasmanian wilderness in relative comfort. A cruise down the Gordon River from Strahan or a heart-stopping ﬂight over the Wild Rivers National Park provides a glimpse of the stoic character and mystical heart of this World Heritage-listed region. And while there is no shortage of fresh air, exercise and the great outdoors to appreciate in Tasmania, the cities, too, have a gentle charm. Hobart has long been a magnet for creative people, and their work is on display at galleries and in the much-loved Salamanca Market on Saturdays. Stroll along the lanes of Battery Point, one of the most unspoilt historic precincts in the country, eat ﬁsh and chips at Constitution Dock, survey the peaceful city from high atop Mount Wellington, lounge around at the cafes, tea shops and seafood restaurants. Using Hobart as a comfortable base, explore the cool orchards of the nearby Huon Valley or the impossibly rugged coastline of the Tasman Peninsula. The last thing you’ll want to do is escape.

Michelle Fincke weekendsfortwo.com.au

West Coast Wilderness Railway. Image courtesy of Tourism Tasmania. Read about these great places to stay in Tasmania - Lodge at Tarraleah, Lemonthyme Lodge and Ivory Fields Spa Retreat- on the following pages.

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TARRALEAh TAS

Indulgence, wilderness TARRALEAH

THE LODGE AT TARRALEAH A STAy AT ThE LODgE AT TARRALEAh IS A gORgEOUS, AWARD WINNINg indulgence on the very edge of the Tasmanian world heritage wilderness offering dollops of real style in one of the world’s last organic landscapes. The Lodge is a Vogue magazine “Cool hotel” and winner of The Australian Travel and Tourism Awards ‘Best Lodge’ 2007/8/9. It also features an acclaimed restaurant and award winning wine list. Nine luxurious rooms feature silk filled doonas and mohair throws over bespoke king beds. Some have fireplaces and private balconies; all have original Tasmanian art and indulgent bathrooms with remarkably different baths, heated floors and luxury supplies. Bespoke Tasmanian art and furniture grace every room; just wrap yourself in luxury with heated towels, enjoy oversize marble bathrooms and indulge, explore and unwind.

PHONE: 03 6289 1199 FAX: 03 6289 0136 WEB: www.tarraleahlodge.com EMAIL: info@tarraleahlodge.com TARIFF: from $495 per person per night inclusive of all meals and selected beverages. Please see seasonal specials on the website. 110

and luxury

get away to stunning views, fine food, 300 wines and over 200 single malts. Soak up the view from the new cliff-top spa which features hot stone massage, exclusive treatments and stunning hot tubs. Or get a little adventurous. Consider golfing to a chorus of kookaburras, meet the locals on real wildlife walks, enjoy outstanding fishing and wilderness adventures – guided or alone. Learn to fly fish, stalk the world’s purest wild trout, have breakfast with the platypus, paddle into World heritage Wilderness or talk to the head wildlife guide - the last man to have seen a Tasmanian tiger in the wild! Bookings include pre dinner wine, a Tasmanian fine dining experience, light lunch and a cooked to order breakfast; complimentary golf and access to the cliff top spa. For the ultimate indulgence consider booking the entire Lodge with your own personal chef and wildlife guide at very special rates. The Lodge at Tarraleah: for nature and for lovers, an exclusive and intimate retreat to experience the very best of Tasmania. weekendsfortwo.com.au

CRADLE MOUNTAIN TAS

Flavours of Tasmania at Lemonthyme Lodge Lemonthyme Lodge encapsulates everything that’s just great about a holiday in Tasmania.

Lake St Clair National Park. There’s so much to see and do in the area, but many guests opt just to enjoy everything Lemonthyme and the surrounding area offers.

For atmosphere you’d have to travel far to find anything to beat it. The Lodge is the largest log cabin in the Southern Hemisphere and when the wood fire is crackling away and you’re relaxing over a cocktail, you’ll know for sure you’ve made a great choice for that special break from the rat race.

There’s the evening pademelon feeding. These cute marsupials, found only in Tasmania, arrive in numbers onto the front lawn at Lemonthyme to play up for the cameras.

Lemonthyme is less than an hour’s scenic drive from Devonport and just 40 minutes from the spectacular Cradle Mountain –

CRADLE MOUNTAIN

LEMONTHYME LODGE PHONE: 03 6492 1112 FAX: 03 6492 1113 WEB: www.lemonthyme.com.au EMAIL: reservations@lemonthyme.com.au TARIFF: from $130 couple/night, with fully cooked buffet breakfast weekendsfortwo.com.au

The accommodation appeals to all budgets, from private bedrooms in the main lodge with shared toilet and bathroom facilities, to two bedroom cabins, one bedroom tree-top tub or spa cabins and the latest addition, the Luxury Wilderness Spa cabins. All are furnished with either Huon Pine or Black-heart Sassafras – finest Tasmanian native timbers. You’ll come away with great memories from the restaurant at Lemonthyme Lodge, which celebrates Tasmania’s excellence in gourmet produce in almost every dish. You’ll enjoy the finest oysters, beef, game and poultry, prepared with the best bush peppers, relishes, herbs and spices from the island state. Working up an appetite is easy, as within a 90 – 120 minute roundtrip walk from the lodge you can visit a variety of exquisite places such as Bridal Veil Falls, Champagne Falls, No Names Falls or Lake Cethana. Be sure to take a look at the Lemonthyme Lodge website for a sense of this special place. 111

TASMANIA

new and

enticing

SCAMANDER

IVORY FIELDS SPA RETREAT ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ALWAyS EXCITINg TO FIND SOMEWhERE NEW AND WhERE BETTER than the very beautiful northeast coast of Tasmania, where the Ivory Fields Spa Retreat has just opened between Bicheno and St. helens. At the heart of a fertile 12 acre property, the Retreat is a two-storey homestead built from western red cedar, with generous balconies and deck areas and with three ensuite guest bedrooms. Downstairs, the Sassafras Spa Suite has a king size bed, ensuite with private spa and an outdoor deck overlooking the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s herb farm. The remaining two suites are located upstairs, the Starlight Suite has its own sitting room with a balcony and a queen bed beneath a skylight for star gazing. The Lemonthyme Room also has a queen bed and balcony.

PHONE: 03 6372 2759 WEB: www.ivoryfields.com.au EMAIL: info@ivoryfields.com.au TARIFF: From $185 per night. 112

A retreat for busy people who want to spend time relaxing in a pristine environment, Ivory Fields also has an outdoor spa, a traditional sauna and, located within walking distance, a freshwater swimming hole. The herb gardens attract abundant birdlife and are the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. Add to this gourmet Tasmanian food, pampering in the form of massages or maybe a herb-infused foot spa and you can see why this is a dreamy place to spend the weekend! Of course if you feel adventurous there are many things to see and do in the area including penguin tours, bike riding, scuba diving, fishing and surfing. There are bushwalking trails in nearby National Parks (Ivory Fields can provide a picnic hamper) and, for golfers, there are four courses in the local area. Whether you choose to relax or explore during the day, you will gather on the deck for sundowners in anticipation of fresh local delicacies including seafood and meats, all matched with Tasmanian wines. weekendsfortwo.com.au

destination – Margaret River

Margaret River s

’ winning ingredients

Margaret River is internationally renowned for its fantastic wine yet there’s much more to this picturesque region than just wine. Great food, fantastic beaches and world class surfing are other highlights awaiting those who make the three and a half hour drive from Perth. Then there are the region’s lesser known attractions such as its caves. There are around 350 of them in the region, including several which are open to the public. These include the Mammoth Cave, which features ancient fossil remains of extinct animals. Lake Cave has a lake and Jewel Cave has the longest straw stalactite found in any tourist cave. Nearby towering Karri forests are just as spectacular as the caves.

Surfing action at Margaret River. Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

It’s well worth allowing time to explore these natural attractions, although with over 60 wineries to visit it is hard not to spend all your time satisfying your taste buds with top class wine. Although the region produces less than one per cent of Australian wine, over 15 per cent is Australia’s premium wine.

Lake Cave, located in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia. Vasse Felix Winery Restaurant. Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

Aerial view of Wise Vineyards, located in Meelup. Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

The quality of the food on offer is just as impressive. Some of Australia’s best chefs produce a feast of top tucker - there’s everything from exquisite cheeses to marron (freshwater crayfish). Many of the best known restaurants are attached to wineries ensuring a truly gourmet experience. There are also a range of fresh food outlets selling everything from fruit to chocolate which are ideal if you want to create your own epicurean delights. If you start to feel guilty about such indulgences fear not, there are plenty of ways to get active. Walking and cycling tracks have been marked along the banks of the Margaret River while a walk through the Karri forests is a not to be forgotten experience. Then there’s the surf. There are over 40 places to surf in the region. Naturally there are plenty of beaches ideal for long strolls while for the really adventurous there are such activities as rock climbing, abseiling and canoeing. With so much on offer it’s no wonder the region is regarded as one of Western Australia’s premier tourist attractions.

Read about great places to stay in Margaret River Windmills Break - on the following page.

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Boranup Karri Forest. Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

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MARGARET RIVER WA

An exquisite example of

Margaret River luxury

Western Australia

Windmills Break NAMED AFTER A LOCAL SURF BEACH NEAR YALLINGUP, THIS BRAND NEW 5 STAR luxury boutique hotel in Western Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s renowned Margaret River Region is a dream destination for romantic escapes, weddings and other special occasions. From Deluxe Courtyard Rooms to Premier Spa Apartments, all rooms and suites are exclusively designed for two and have luxury furnishings with leather seating, king size beds, beautiful bathrooms, private courtyards and large LCD TV (with 18 channels) and private courtyards. The Executive Spa rooms and Premier Spa Suites offer some of the finest accommodation in Australia to suit the most discerning guests â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for a honeymoon, for example. Premier Spa Suites have private verandahs, sunken lounge area, two LCD TVs and 2 DVD/CD players, king size bed, wardrobes and large double spa. The Premier Spa Apartment is a self-contained suite with additional facilities including private BBQ and separate kitchen/dining and lounge. Windmills Break has a unique and spacious lounge and licensed bar area within the main hotel building, for relaxing and socialising. Local wines from the Margaret River Region are naturally on the wine list and, during the afternoons and evenings, the Bar menu offers tempting daily specials incorporating delicious local produce. Breakfast is a treat including hot dishes featuring local ingredients such as Busselton free-range eggs and local bacon. weekendsfortwo.com.au

In-house massage is a must during your stay and you will also love to relax by the stunning swimming pool and heated outdoor spa in a private garden setting. Other facilities include a gazebo over the large jarrah deck, large BBQ area, gymnasium, tennis court and walking track. Windmills Break is located halfway between Dunsborough and Yallingup close to the coast within easy reach of beaches and about 50 wineries nearby.

PHONE: 08 9755 2341 WEB: www.windmillsbreak.com.au EMAIL: manager@windmillsbreak. com.au TARIFF: From $345/night. 115

destination – New Zealand

Take a breath of fresh air at

Wanaka T

ravellers from around the world have marvelled at the timeless beauty of wanaka.

The town rests majestically at the edge of lake wanaka. It and its twin hawea are regarded as two of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand. Crafted out of solid rock by the actions of glaciers, the lakes are separated by a narrow isthmus. They are playgrounds for sailors, kayakers, windsurfers, jetboaters and waterskiers. wanaka is also the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding picturesque otago region. The world heritage listed Mount aspiring National Park is just a short drive from town. here you’ll find some of New Zealand’s most scenic walks. The pinnacle of the park is Mount aspiring (known as Tititea in Maori, meaning Glistening Mountain) which rises to 3,027 metres. It’s a peak much loved by climbers and photographers alike. Pull on your hiking boots and climb Mount Roy – the hike takes three hours – and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of Mount aspiring and lake wanaka. other popular activities in and around town include fishing as lake wanaka is home to an abundant supply of brown and rainbow trout. absorbing the tranquility as you wait for a bite is in many ways just as enjoyable as catching a fish! horse riders are also in their element. You can saddle up on a horse trek that takes in bridle trails through the ﬂats and foothills. The wanaka Golf Course is challenging and well worth playing, if only for the views of the nearby mountains and lakes. so now one of New Zealand’s secrets is out. Visit the beautiful wanaka region to see for yourself. as an added bonus wanaka has its own domestic airport with ﬂights from Christchurch and Queenstown.

mount roy, Wanaka. image courtesy of New Zealand tourism

Read about Wanaka Lakehouse, a great place to stay in Wanaka, on the following page.

NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand

Wanaka Lakehouse

Purely exquisite,

exquisitely pure

As you can see from the images, Wanaka Lakehouse is no ordinary property. This stunning lodge with lake and mountain views is chemical free and built on ecologically sound principals to support rest and relaxation and encourage what could be the most restful getaway you have ever had. Rated Double 5 star by Qualmark, New Zealand tourism’s quality rating agency, Wanaka Lakehouse has unforgettable ambience with hand-crafted timber interiors, luxurious Persian rugs, leather chairs and lounges, antiques, original artworks and a wonderful medieval candelabra. On two floors, Sky and Pool, the property is perfect for friends to share, for families or for separate couples for romantic interludes on either an Exclusive House weekendsfortwo.com.au

Hire or Bed and Breakfast basis with full/ half board/ self catering options available. The lower Pool level is the main floor with an indoor, chemical free emerald-tiled lap pool, imposing Tulukivi soapstone fireplace and pizza oven, BBQ area, two large decks and two lavish bedrooms with gorgeous ensuites – superking or queen (with private sitting area). Sky is the top floor level and consists of a sunroom/dining room, grand living area, two decks, luxury tiled bathroom, queen bedroom with gorgeous twin bed children’s room and another single off the living area. As you would expect, Wanaka Lakehouse has a gourmet kitchen and a personal chef and butler can be arranged as can massage and spa treatments, nanny, trainer or a mountain guide. All guests receive complimentary

champagne and chocolates on arrival and daily luxury breakfast provisions There’s a sauna and spa, large fully stocked games room and art area for the kids, 42” DLP TV, extensive DVD and CD library and then there’s the fabulous great outdoors in one of New Zealand’s most exceptional places with lake activities in summer, hiking in the Mount Aspiring National Park, canoeing, fishing, horse riding, golf, wineries, sky diving, white water rafting and much much more.

PHONE: +64 3 443 6568 Mobile: 027 443 6568 WEB: www.wanakalakehouse.co.nz EMAIL: info@wanakalakehouse.co.nz TARIFF: from NZ$450 117

destination – Vanuatu ratua

Ratua’s special

treats

Ratua Private Island has much to offer visitors as Melinda McMahon discovered.

rom the time the friendly staff from Ratua Private Island greeted us at espiritu santo’s luganville airport we knew we were in for a special stay.

The weather was a balmy 29 degrees and the 30 minute boat trip from the airport to the resort was the perfect way to start our weekend break. on this trip we learnt the resort was the brainchild of a French nature lover who, like so many visitors to this south Pacific Island gem, was captivated by its beauty. on purchasing the resort he hired locals to ensure it continued as an eco friendly property. all of the profits generated from the resort are put back into facilities for local communities in Vanuatu including schools and hospitals for the disadvantaged. Today Ratua features 12 private bungalows each with its own private beach. adding to the rustic feel of the island are the local chickens, goats, cows and pigs which roam freely. The Yacht Club is the central meeting point on the island. a special feature of the club are the huts that are used for dining and as a bar. These huts feature Indochina style art, artefacts and furniture. all are unique and hand crafted right down to the smallest detail on the lamp shades. The use of organic produce is a special feature of all the meals. highlights are locally bred beef and an abundance of fresh seafood caught by local anglers. The coral trout and fresh lobster are also delicious.

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The resort also has a fantastic wine cellar stocked with the best French wines and champagnes. during our stay there were plenty of opportunities to taste this great food and wine. an afternoon boat trip to Turtle Island included a scrumptious picnic lunch complete with French champagne. There was also plenty of champagne on offer that evening at a `wine tasting in the kitchen’. as well as more great French champagne there were plenty of other fine wines to try including offerings from the Margaret River area. other highlights of the evening included fresh oysters. while it is easy to spend your time at Ratua just eating and drinking there are plenty of other activities on offer. as well as our boat trip to Turtle Island we also went horse-riding. an outrigger canoe ride through waterways to a special swimming spot, known as the blue hole, was another delightful experience. other activities on offer include electric buggy rides, trips to Millenium Cave, Million dollar Point, bike riding and tours of the local village. There is even an adventure team who will arrange a private helicopter to Tamna Island where you can visit the most accessible volcano on earth. Ratua can be hired by one or up to 24 people.

PHONE: 0011 678 30 020 or (02) 9580 2205 (Sydney) WEB: www.ratua.com.au EMAIL: management@ratua.com weekendsfortwo.com.au

image courtesy of tracey Nearmy.

image courtesy of ratua island.

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image courtesy of ratua island.

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destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bali

luxury

Living in

Learn to live in the style to which we would all like to become accustomed.

ustralia is an egalitarian Country. The gap between the richest and the poorest is not as large as in other countries. We do not have an underclass living on subsistence wages doing menial chores as in other countries with larger populations. It is only in recent years that the idea of paying someone to do our lawns, gardens or pools has gained popular currency in Australia. For the average Australian, the notion of having maids, cleaners, cooks, gardeners, chauffers etc is a fantasy described in books and movies. Not so in other parts of the world. And so it is that more and more Australians are discovering the joys of an all inclusive Villa holiday in Asia. This trend is particularly evident in Bali. Regular visitors to Bali tend to go through a cycle of life as it were. They initially visit as young people seeking sun, surf and the nightlife of Kuta. As time goes by they start to return as a couple or even group of couples. The nightlife of Kuta becomes less important and they start to move along the beach to Legian or over the peninsular to the five star enclave of Nusa Dua. A recent trend has been to follow in other more experienced footsteps and rent a Villa further along the beach in Seminyak or Canggu. Here you can lead a quiet, relaxed lifestyle secluded from the bustling tourist areas. Australians and Japanese make up the largest contingent of foreigners living in Bali and are pretty savvy in making the most of what is on offer. And what is on offer is a spectacular lifestyle. The expatriates have made the Villa lifestyle popular around the Seminyak area. I recently walked

Image courtesy of iStock photo

up the beach to check out a very cool Villa I spied from the water while surfing in Canggu. Note the description of support staff: “A part time manager is taking care of 11 staff at your full service including five maids, two cooks, three night security guards, one gardener and a pool attendant”. This is luxury living at the highest level. What do you think of having 11 support staff including drivers, cooks and cleaners? I am not suggesting it will be cheap, however I am suggesting it will be good value when the level of support staff and therefore service is taken into account. Look at the contracted inclusions: • Welcome drinks and cold towels upon arrival • Round trip Airport transfer. • Free daily car and driver • Tennis court • Laundry • Welcome Canapés • Free Internet connection • Fresh Flowers arrangement • Fully staffed including: chef, cleaning service and house manager A Bali Villa holiday could well be an interesting alternative to the five star hotel experiences.

Image courtesy of Bali Weddings International

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destination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bali

Tanah Lot Temple Image courtesy of iStock photo

Why stay in a villa?

More Privacy Choosing to stay in a villa as opposed to a standard hotel room offers a heightened sense of privacy. You are free to come and go as you please without the hassle of worrying if you are disturbing others. There are strictly no time keeping rules and you are able to break convention with a midnight swim or simply choosing to stay up all night to watch the sun rise. More Personalised Service A dedicated team of villa staff are available to anticipate and take care of all your needs. This one-on-one personalised service is the epitome of luxury and you can choose to have meals prepared by a professional Chef, be chauffeured around in a private vehicle or be indulged with an in-house spa treatment that brings traditional healing and beauty rituals to your villa door. You have the space and opportunity to entertain a small gathering of friends or alternatively hide away from the outside world to unwind and escape the pressures of a busy lifestyle. More Affordable - More Space and Facilities Villa accommodation is generally a more affordable option in comparison to staying in a hotel room of the same calibre. You also have the added incentive of enjoying facilities such as your own private swimming pool and tropical garden that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to share with others. There is plenty of lounge space to sunbathe unexposed around the pool without having to feel shy or inhibited. Truly Balinese Experience Staying in a villa as opposed to a hotel is a great chance to experience the community spirit by being encompassed within a traditional Balinese neighbourhood. You will gain first hand knowledge about the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural way of life where the passage of time is measured by an endless cycle of ceremonial rites. In a setting removed from hustle and bustle of mainstream tourism, you can enjoy peace and solitude by rediscovering the gift of waking up each day to the sounds of nature. A private villa will afford you quality time out spent with a loved one to relax and recharge. Security Although a private villa has its own security personnel, every Balinese village and community has its own unique system of protection based on a neighbourhood watch practice. Unidentified visitors are immediately recognised as strangers to the area and their actions are closely monitored. This ensures greater peace of mind throughout the entire duration of your stay. You will be accepted as an honoured guest within a close-knit Balinese environment.

Image courtesy of iStock photo

LEGIAN BEACH, BALI

A truely

romantic experience LEGIAN BEACH, BALI

PADMA RESORT

Fantastic spa treatments, mouth watering cuisine, unforgettable sunsets and romantic accommodation are just some of the delights awaiting visitors to Padma Resort Bali. Nestled on 6.8 hectares of tropical landscaped gardens, the resort is the perfect escape for those in search of a truly romantic break and some peace and quiet. The extensive grounds are home to 406 stylish guest rooms and suites, all with balconies and world class facilities. At the same time, given the resort is built on Bali’s iconic Legian Beach and is just a few steps away from the traditional art and fashion market of Legian Street, there’s also plenty on offer for the more energetic. The resort’s fitness centre and large tennis court are perfect for the more active while for those in search of pampering there’s Lotus Beauty Salon and the Padma Spa by Mandara. The Padma Spa is understandably extremely popular as its treatments are an exotic, luxurious and an unforgettable celebration of indulgence. Perfect for couples is the Ultimate Indulgence package which starts with an Aromatherapy footbath to prepare the senses for a more comprehensive treatment such as a Lavender Body Wash, with choices of traditional body scrub and the Aromatherapy Floral Bath, which is enjoyed while sipping a nourishing ginger tea. The signature treatment, the Mandara Massage, sees two masseurs working on a couple simultaneously while a foot massage and refresher facial adds to the amazing sensation. It’s really an ultimate indulgence for couples. What better way to start or finish an indulgent day than by relaxing by the resort’s expansive swimming pool, soaking up the sun and enjoying a good book? Then spend the late afternoon in the Garden Club Lounge enjoying the free flow of 124

cocktails and finger food while watching one of the world’s great sights, a Bali sunset. The Garden Club Lounge, open to those staying in Club and Suites rooms, is one the great facilities at the property. There’s also Bella Rosa Italian Restaurant, listed as one of the fine dining restaurants in Indonesian Tatler’s Best Restaurant Guide of 2009. Other options include Tenkai Japanese Restaurant, Taman Ayun Café and Lounge, The Deli, Seruni Sunken Pool Bar, and Sunset Bar renowned for its great views, special salsa lessons and for DJs playing chill-out and lounge tunes. Also popular with guests are the daily themed dinners including the Japanese Buffet Dinner, Teppanyaki and A La Carte Night, Flavours of Italy, Tropical BBQ, and Padma Rijsttafel. Then there’s the really romantic option of private dining under the stars. The resort’s skilled chefs provide an unforgettable meal. Nightly entertainment is another feature of the resort accompanying some of the daily themed night dinners. This entertainment covers the musical spectrum, there’s everything from Kecak dancing to bands and solo guitarists. weekendsfortwo.com.au

Perfect for star-struck couples is the Romance Package which offers nightly accommodation in a selected club room category with access to the Garden Club, guaranteed king size bed, return airport transfers, daily buffet breakfasts, welcome drinks, flowers, fruits and chilled towel, a romance couple cake especially prepared by the chef, dinner under the stars, a 50 minutes Balinese Massage at the Spa, an in-room aromatherapy floral bath, and free use of fitness centre, sauna, and steam room. All these benefits can be enjoyed only with a minimum of three nights stay. What better way to spend a romantic long weekend?

PHONE: +62 361 752 111 FAX: +62 361 752 140 WEB: www.padmahotels.com EMAIL: sales@padmaresortbali.com ; reservation@padmaresortbali.com TARIFF: Special Internet rate starting from USD 245++ /couple/night for minimum stay of 3 nights.

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cEoAKA, BALi

A new experience in style

and sophistication

CePaka, BalI

VIlla deVaTas DEVAtAs is syNoNymous With thE BEst iN DiscrEEt LuXurious accommodation in Bali providing its guests with the full service and luxury inclusions of a fine hotel. this five-guestroom estate combines a perfect balance of contemporary designer chic, stunning setting and timeless island hospitality in one of Bali’s best locations, away from the masses but within easy chauffeured access of the best dining, shopping and touring on the island.

the spa uses sundari’s Ayurvedic-inspired formulations that utilise the powerful regenerative properties of plants, herbs, roots, essential oils and floral extracts, many of which originate in the himalayan region. the essential oils used in all sundari products are 100 percent natural, therapeutic grade, and harvested with precision. Where possible, they are organically grown, without the use of pesticides.

your stay will be enhanced by the opportunity to enjoy a range of body treatments and yoga classes all without leaving your private villa. Exposed to breathtaking views of rice fields, a twisting river, palms and a tropical forest, the villa’s calming spa facility is all about tranquillity and unmistakable Balinese elegance.

At Devatas indulgence is a top priority. chauffeured cars, a concierge, chefs, maids, butler, waiters, baby sitters and masseuses are all on-hand so you never have to leave your sumptuous surroundings.

WEB: www.villadevatas.com EMAIL: info@villadevatas.com TARIFF: USD$550 per night, one bedroom (2 night minimum)

Devatas is a new experience in style and sophistication that combines the luxury of a glamorous private villa with its own premium spa.

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A unique place where time stands still to appreciate a sense of escapism. Executive Spa Suites, Wilderness Cabins, Lake View Spa Suites. A promise of romance, unrivalled quality and most importantly, memories to last a life time.

Reservations 1300 851 829