If you want an authentic Aussie experience without sacrificing on life’s little luxuries, Capella Lodge is your idyllic escape Down Under. The luxury property on the southernmost tip of the picture-perfect Lord Howe Island is ideal for nature lovers, gastronomes and travelers who want to unplug for a few days. Bask in one of Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites by snorkeling in the subtropical reef, swimming in crystal blue lagoons and hiking Mount Gower.
While the property has been open since 2003, new explorers still continue to visit this nine-suite hideaway for their own Robinson Crusoe-like adventures. Scuba diving adventures and up-close encounters with native wildlife are all at your doorstep. But then again, so too are opportunities to tuck into some great Aussie gastronomy with panoramas of the whole island as your delicious backdrop.
- Though the luxury hotel's nine suites range from comfortable (the 484-square-foot Capella Suite) to colossal (the 1,722-square-foot Makambo Lodge), they all feature stunning island views, outdoor spaces with daybeds, and plenty of natural woods and pops of blue.
- Test your wildlife-spotting skills on Lord Howe Island by seeing just how many rare birds, native plants and marine life you can tick off your list during your visit. Birdwatchers especially will love counting more than 200 species, including the island’s own woodhen (a kiwi-like flightless bird), red-tailed tropicbirds and masked boobies.
- A paradise for hikers, Lord Howe Island is the perfect place to explore by foot. There are numerous marked trails directly outside the property. Walk through palm groves, sub-tropical rainforests and high up in the clouds on Mount Gower, where you’ll find the best views of the island.
- Art lovers, be sure to take time exploring the property’s private collection. With Capella Lodge’s commitment to commissioning and supporting local creatives, you can enjoy pieces by Bruce Goold — his SS Makambo portrays rats swimming from a sinking ship — and keep an eye out for Joshua Yeldham’s limited-edition print of The Owl of Lord Howe.
- After any physical activity around the island, be sure to book an indulgent spa treatment like the three-hour Burrawang Dreaming session, which includes a complete facial, body and sacred stone massage to truly unwind on the island.
- A fleet of e-bikes and mountain bikes offers a gratis way for guests to explore the island.
- A bounty of fresh seafood and locally grown ingredients are always on the menu at the Lord Howe Island hotel. Guests have nightly dinners and an open bar included in their stay. The latter means regional wines and locally brewed-craft beer pairings are common.
- If guests are interested in learning about the indigenous plants cultivated on the island, they can partake in complimentary foraging experiences with the executive chef at Capella Lodge. Weed through a bounty of rocket flowers, watercress and various sea herbs, which are all served on the menu every night.
- A great Aussie experience includes a great barbecue. With 11 beautiful beaches stretched out on the island, find your favorite spot and ask the Capella Lodge team to throw some shrimp, lobster, kingfish and wahoo on the barbie.
- The property’s main dining area, Gowers Terrace, recently reopened after a three-month refurbishment. There may be fresh furnishings and a new Drinks Ledge for enjoying cocktails and sunsets, but the space remains a prime spot for alfresco dining in the evening.
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