Lord Howe Island
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About Lord Howe Island
A tiny speck in the Tasman Sea, a couple of hours’ flight from the east coast of New South Wales, Lord Howe Island is a destination unlike any other. Uninhabited by humans until 1834, the island is now home to around 400 people — and welcomes up to just 400 visitors at any one time. A fascinating biodiversity hotspot with rare birds flitting through ancient forests and clear seas teeming with fish, it will delight outdoorsy explorers as well as seekers of castaway-style luxury. A small number of intimate lodges and retreats have sprung up in recent years. Much like their unusual setting, the best places to stay on Lord Howe Island are small, characterful and utterly unique.
Recognised as a World Heritage Site of global natural significance by UNESCO, Lord Howe Island is carefully protected. Clamber up Mount Gower — the island’s tallest peak at 875 metres above sea level — with a private guide to marvel at lush forest-clad hills, golden crescents of beach and turquoise ocean waters in all directions. Guided bird watching treks are another highlight, as are leisurely bicycle rides along the sandy paths which circle the island.
Try your hand at kayaking, fishing and diving, snorkel and swim with turtles in the shallows at Old Settlement beach, or ride the waves at Blinky beach. There are ample opportunities to wind surf, kite surf and sail, too. For an insight into the island’s history, visit the Lord Howe Maritime Museum. Conservation efforts are ongoing, and the teams at the best places to stay on Lord Howe Island can detail plans for future preservation of this delicate ecosystem. This really is a very special destination, and one absolutely worth the journey for those curious about the natural world and its endless wonders.
The Best Places to Stay on Lord Howe Island
For a Luxury Lodge
- Capella Lodge boasts nine stunning contemporary suites in the shadow of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird. Elegant interiors offer a fresh take on Australian beach house luxury, plus there's a superb spa and mouth-watering cuisine sourced from the kitchen garden and the ocean. An exceptional lodge for romantics and keen explorers.
- Arajilla Retreat, an indulgent all-inclusive hideaway near Old Settlement Beach, has twelve striking one- and two-bedroom suites. Think cream and pastel textiles, lovely wooden furnishings and lots of light in white-painted spaces overlooking lush gardens. An organic eatery, spa and plethora of activities complete the experience.
FOR A PRIVATE COTTAGE
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
- Fly to Lord Howe Island Airport from Brisbane and Sydney. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance, making journeys to your destination swift and simple.
- Lord Howe island is ideal for a road trip! If you would like to hire a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
- Visit between January and March for plenty of sunshine — though be aware that this can be a busy time of year to travel. Avoid the Australian school holidays for great deals and quieter beaches if you can.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Sydney.
- Widen the net and see our pick of the best places to stay in New South Wales.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Best Hotels in Lord Howe Island
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Capella Lodge Lord Howe Island from £380
Foodies - Foodies will delight in savouring a Pacific-inspired menu of dishes crafted using home-grown ingredients and the day's catchHoneymoons - A sophisticated take on the Australian beach house concept, perfect for indulgent honeymoons in superb sea-facing suitesTrekking - Clamber to the peak of Mount Gower - 875 metres above sea level - with an expert guide for unbeatable panoramic viewsSurfing - Surfers can ride the waves at Blinky Beach - reputedly one of the best breaks in AustraliaRecommended by - Fodors, Mr & Mrs SmithA collection of 9 elegant suites offering inspired by the Australian beach house aesthetic. Dazzling views of Mounts Gower & Lidgbird await. Think chic, contemporary luxury, with an indulgent spa, cracking cuisine & the island's wonders just steps away. Exceptionally intimate & romantic. See More
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Arajilla Retreat Lord Howe Island 12 rooms from £879
Back to Nature - A magical island escape, near swimming turtles, flitting birds and 500 species of fish in a biodiversity hotspotHideaway - Hide away in one of just 12 indulgent suites for a romantic escape or special celebration with friends & familySights nearby - Ball’s Pyramid, the remnants of an ancient volcano & discovered to be the home of the rare land lobster, is not to be missedRestaurant - Savour an ever-changing menu of fresh modern cuisine using seafood & produce from the kitchen garden at the restaurantCrisp, contemporary one- & two-bedroom suites makes up the stylish Arajilla Retreat, an all-inclusive hideaway near Old Settlement Beach. Expect airy spaces with cream & pastel textiles, wooden furnishings & lots of light. There's an atmospheric spa, an organic eatery & activities aplenty. Superb. See More