It may be a tiny island off Australia’s mainland, but it is unsurpassed in the island beauty stakes.
East of Port Macquarie, the natural island World Heritage listed paradise welcomes only 400 visitors at a time, so it’s never crowded.
Attractions
Picture a stunning landscape – high misty mountains, lush rainforest, sandy beaches and blue waters and you have Lord Howe Island.
A nature lover’s haven there’s lots of bird life and animal encounters with 45 kms of walks including the Seven Peaks Walk and Mt Gower climb, an 875-metre challenging climb.
It’s great for diving with 60 world class dive sites and 90 species of coral and 500 species of fish. There’s a golf course and great fishing.
It’s also perfect for daydreaming with a glorious back drop.
Stay
There’s a range of accommodation for the budget conscious to those who want to splurge. Upmarket accommodation includes the new Island House for eight guests, Arajilla Retreat with 12 beautiful suites and the luxurious Capella Lodge. Pine Trees is an iconic lodge that dates back to 1888, offering a variety of rooms and cottages overlooking the Lord Howe Lagoon with beach frontage and magnificent views.
Ocean View Apartments, Leanda-Lei Apartments and Somerset Apartments are also recommended.
Dine
Fresh seafood takes centre stage on menus at Lord Howe Island and you won’t get any fresher.
The Anchorage near Lagoon Beach is open daily for all meals. It’s the domain of Czech-born executive chef David Chlumsky who brings experience from acclaimed Sydney restaurants Otto, Quay and Longrain. There’s also an on-site bakery.
Arajilla Retreat restaurant features home grown kitchen garden organic produce and the best of products from the island and mainland. There are also two cafes for casual meals and treats.
