Accommodation Archives - Page 3 of 4

Pretty Beach House – Luxury Lodges of Australia

Posted on August 30, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Pretty Beach House, an exquisite Luxury Lodge of Australia only 90 minutes from Sydney has room for only eight lucky guests. The all-inclusive guesthouse is situated within the Bouddi National Park and surrounded by several golden beaches. Deborah Ramsay tells us more.

Describe Pretty Beach House in 3 words.

Relaxed, effortless luxury.

Tell us a little bit about Pretty Beach House and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

Our guesthouse is surrounded by natural beauty including several glorious golden beaches & picturesque bays, all easily accessible for hiking expeditions along walking trails & over coastal sandstone cliffs. Indigenous rock art by the local Darkinjung tribe features at the doorstep of the guesthouse, dating back an incredible 10,000 years.

A ‘welcome to country’ indigenous smoking ceremony, is performed for every new guest, usually on arrival night. It’s a very special experience for our guests who absolutely love the interaction and engagement of a true aboriginal elder from our community.

How is Pretty Beach House pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

By providing a complimentary indigenous Welcome to Country smoking ceremony for all guests. This experience is deeply spiritual and very engaging. Our property’s offering is also an all-inclusive package. All meals and even most beverages are paid for in the one tariff making the experience effortless for our wonderful guests.

A Welcome to Country ceremony at Pretty Beach House — A Welcome to Country ceremony

What activity should guests not miss during their stay?

Of course, the Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony, but the bushwalks are rather spectacular too. We have mountain bikes for guests to take whenever they feel like it, and paddle boards and kayaks can be hired from just down at the local bay. A ferry trip across to the famous Sydney beach of Palm Beach, is also a beautiful day out.

What is the best dining experience at Pretty Beach House ?

All All dining is curated by Stefano Manfredi – master of modern Italian cuisine. Italian born Manfredi is one of Australia’s most celebrated and influential chefs. Guests are often lucky enough to chat with Manfredi over the pass, and learn new culinary skills from the master himself.

All dining at Pretty Beach House is curated by Stefano Manfredi — All dining is curated by Stefano Manfredi

Please describe a typical guest at Pretty Beach House.

Well, our guests are special. They are looking for total relaxation, privacy and relaxed luxury at its finest. They might be hopeless romantics with a proposal in mind. They may be honeymooners, babymooners or discerning globe trotters. They might be baby boomers who spend their well deserved time at the finest hotels across the globe. Each and every one of our guests are unique and we love to create very special experiences for them depending on their needs.

For more insight, read a review of our stay at Pretty Beach House here. It is also the perfect place for groups of friends.

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Lake House – Luxury Lodges of Australia

Posted on August 30, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Award-winning Lake House in Daylesford just 90 minutes from Melbourne is as famous for its fine dining as it is for its boutique accommodation. Set within picturesque spa country, this family-run Luxury Lodge of Australia is a foodie’s delight and offers one of the best cellars in the country. Larissa Wolf-Tasker fills us in about this magical property.

Describe Lake House in 3 words.

Gourmet | Country-chic | Service

Tell us a little bit about Lake House and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

Lake House is family owned and operated. It began as a restaurant in 1984 when Alla & Allan, husband and wife (artist and chef) opened the doors of their Lake House which had taken four years of building, plotting and planting. More than 30 years later Lake House is still owned and operated by the family including myself, my partner and 120 industry professionals.

The property is situated on six acres of country gardens; much of it planted by the previous generation, on the edge of lake Daylesford. It’s a rambling seasonal garden with old established fruit trees, fragrant old fashioned roses, lilac, magnolia and Daphne.

Lake House is near to the village of Daylesford which is filled with quirky shops, bars, cafes and galleries. A short stroll or bike ride will get you into the heart of the village within ten minutes but guests more often than not will spend hours exploring the main street and laneways on route.

This region is a land of extinct volcanos and boasts the largest concentration of naturally occurring mineral water springs in Australia. There is now an enormous spa industry built around the health giving properties of this mineral water and you can see the evidence on the springs on site where the waters flow above ground in creeks, water features and shallow pools. A local water diviner came on site to discover the underground springs and we now have water available for people to drink on site as well as bath in. The volcanic activity millions of years ago also ensured productive volcanic soil resulting in a diverse organic and biodynamic farming industry. As a result our restaurant has a consistent supply of extraordinary produce. It’s a pretty special place.

How is Lake House pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

Our purpose built Cooking School gives guests an opportunity to get their hands dirty in either an intimate class of ten or amongst a masterclass with some of Australia’s leading chefs. The full calendar for the year ahead is always released in December and spaces fill quickly.

What’s a recent (last six months) innovation at Lake House?

We are always moving forward and now in our fourth decade the Lake House continues to grow and evolve with refurbished accommodation, brand new facilities and plenty of wistful country inspiration. The Lake House Team have never been known to rest on our laurels; now launching the newly refurbished Waterfront Suites. This update comes hot on the heels of the new Waterfront Pavilion – a private dining room for up to 40 guests on the lagoon shore, The Lagoon Deck – a place to enjoy afternoon aperitivo high in the poplars overlooking lake Daylesford, and the refurbished Lodge Studios and Suites in the original homestead.

The cooking school at Lake House, Daylesford

What activity should guests not miss during their stay at Lake House?

A Signature Salus Bliss – it’s a combination of soft body polish, rhythmic massage and hot volcanic stones

Best dining experience at Lake House ?

Our restaurant is a destination in itself. Dining in the restaurant is the signature experience of a stay at Lake House and our tasting menu that changes with the seasons is a definite must-do. The Lake House Restaurant is listed as one of Australia’s best and this year alone has been included in every major national industry and media award.

Please describe a typical guest at Lake House.

There are no typical guests. We practise a very bespoke style of hospitality. Every day and every guest is a new opportunity to create very special memories.

Is Lake House child friendly?

Yes however we are on an unfenced lake and ask parents to be mindful of the natural landscape. Onsite there are plenty of activities for kids – feeding the kookaburras, geese and ducks, fishing, flying kites, tennis, basketball, lake walks etc. Nearby there is also quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, three golf courses and the Wildlife Park.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

We have a few more unusual parts to the property. Our own resident artist Allan Wolf-Tasker’s studio is on site. At the moment he is working on a new exhibition “Lake Daylesford” which will be shown in Melbourne in November 2016. His studio is open to hotel guests or by appointment. We also display the work of several local artists throughout the gardens, in the public space and in the hotel rooms themselves.

The Lake House is also regularly featured on shows such as Masterchef. Culinary Director Alla Wolf-Tasker AM is an icon in the hospitality industry and is often representing Australia’s food and wine in partnership with Tourism Australia overseas.

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Silky Oaks Lodge – Luxury Lodges of Australia

Posted on August 30, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Silky Oaks Lodge and Healing Waters Spa adjoining the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park is a picture of tranquility. Located on the Mossman River it’s the perfect based to explore this tropical rainforest wonderland. The lodge offers activities such as canoeing, river snorkelling, guided walks, wildlife spotting and yoga classes or simply swimming in the crystal clear mountain waters of Mossman River. It’s the perfect haven for guests keen to re-energise their soul. We speak to Samantha Lusk, Sales & Marketing for Silky Oaks Lodge.

Describe Silky Oaks Lodge in 3 words.

Relax, Rejuvenate, Explore.

Tell us a little bit about Silky Oaks Lodge and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

Silky Oaks Lodge offers a luxury experience from which to explore Tropical North Queensland, situated only 20minutes north of Port Douglas. It boarders the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest National Park and is spectacularly perched above the Mossman River. Surrounded by the lush rainforest, this luxury eco lodge is the ideal location to appreciate the natural tropical environment.

How is Silky Oaks Lodge pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

We understand that all guest’s needs and requirements are different, so prior to the guest arrival, we try and obtain as much information as possible about them so we can tailor individual and personalised touches for all guests. These special touches may be in the form of the location of the room ie. if a guest has a walking difficulty, we will try and allocate a Treehouse as close to the Main Lodge as possible, even if this means we need to upgrade them. We strive to exceed guest expectations at all times and this may be achieved by special touches in the guest rooms such as fresh flowers on arrival, local teas in the room upon turndown, mood music playing upon arrival and during turndown, acknowledging all guests by their names.

Relaxing in the tropical surrounds of Silky Oaks Lodge

What’s a recent (last six months) innovation at Silky Oaks Lodge ?

Due to high demand we have just finished building another Lodge Suite. This room type is in high demand by families as they are the only room which can accommodate four guests. These rooms which are 88sqm offer a spacious open plan layout with extra large balcony with its own outside king size four poster day bed.

What activity should guests not miss during their stay at Silky Oaks Lodge ?

Take a picnic hamper and guide book and hike the Fig Tree Rapids trail and immerse yourself in the crystal clear mountain water along the way.

Clear waters of the Mossman Gorge at Silky Oaks Lodge

Best dining experience at Silky Oaks Lodge?

Our Treehouse Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience. This unique open-sided restaurant where the walls and windows have been replaced by the Mossman River and surrounding rainforest, offers the freshest of local produce. Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Treetop accommodation at Silky Oaks Lodge in the Daintree — Treetop accommodation at Silky Oaks Lodge

Please describe a typical guest at Silky Oaks Lodge.

Retired couples whose children are now at university etc., and who now have the time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surrounds after a very fast paced career. They value the tranquil surrounds of Silky Oaks, however also want to get out and explore the region and what it has to offer, such as a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef or a day trip to Cape Tribulation.

What’s a great experience for teens at Silky Oaks Lodge?

For teenagers, they can have a great time exploring the beautiful Mossman River with a mask and snorkel available from our Reception. They may spot some Jungle Perch, turtles and if they are really lucky the elusive Platypus! We do not accommodate children under the age of 8 years.

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True North Kimberley Cruises – Luxury Lodges of Australia

Posted on August 26, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

A cruise along the Kimberley coast aboard the luxury adventure small-ship TRUE NORTH is on the bucket list for many. Scenes of thundering waterfalls and spectacular gorges greet guests daily. Highlights include Horizontal falls, Mitchell falls, the unique eco-system of Montgomery Reef, Aboriginal rock art and catching huge barramundi.

We speak to Peter Trembath, General Manager, who has been responsible for brand and product at North Star Cruises (owners of TRUE NORTH) since 2001.

Describe TRUE NORTH in 3 words.

Revered adventure-cruise ship

Tell us a little bit about TRUE NORTH and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

An adventure on the TRUE NORTH is one of Australia’s most desired holidays. Bigger ships cannot go where we go! Extended periods at sea are specifically excluded and daily activities can include scenic walks, fishing, snorkelling, diving, scenic flights in the ship’s helicopter and cultural events. We deploy comfortable expedition boats (not rubber boats) and discover wilderness in small groups. An Australian crew uniquely chaperones every experience.

Fishing for barramundi on the True North — Fishing for barramundi

How is the TRUE NORTH pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

By providing unparalleled access to some of the world’s most pristine wilderness and, by providing activity-laden itineraries that provide our guests with maximum opportunity to truly experience the destination.

The True North is a base for adventure — The luxury small-ship is a base for adventure

What’s a recent (last 6 months) innovation from North Star Cruises?

The introduction of new itineraries in the Kimberley and the scheduling of a Discovery Cruise in the South Pacific.

What activity should guests not miss during their stay on the TRUE NORTH ?

Flying in the ship’s helicopter.

Raft point sunrise by helicopter on True North — Raft point sunrise by helicopter from the True North

Best dining experience on the TRUE NORTH ?

Catch of the day likely caught with your own hands.

Please describe a typical guest onboard.

Anyone who considers ‘the experience’ to be the true luxury.

Is the TRUE NORTH child friendly? If so what’s a great experience for kids under 10? And for teens?

Where behaviour is guaranteed not to disrupt the enjoyment of fellow guests. The high-speed drift-snorkelling at the stunning Rowley Shoals is great fun.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Beware of imitations and discover for yourself why our guests consistently remark “that’s the best holiday I have ever had!”

Peter Trembath, General Manager TRUE NORTH — Peter Trembath, General Manager, North Star Cruises with his catch of the day

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Exclusive Australian accommodation for groups of friends

Posted on July 12, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Picture this…Your favourite people, an amazing location, a heavenly bed, delicious food, wine aged to perfection and a range of unique and interesting activities that would delight even the most seasoned traveller. Sound good? Well that’s what’s on our list of small boutique properties are just perfect for groups of friends. These gorgeous options for exclusive Australian accommodation for groups will make you want to go on vacation right now. Read on…

Spicers Peak Lodge

With just ten luxurious suites and two Private Lodges, Spicers Peak Lodge serves as an intimate and relaxing accommodation experience in one of South East Queensland’s most beautiful wilderness areas. Located on 8,000 acres at the peak of a ridge, with breathtaking views of the World Heritage listed Main Range National Park and Scenic Rim.

There is a range of experiences designed to give guests access to this strikingly beautiful part of the Australian wilderness including rainforest bushwalks, mountain biking adventures, and wine tasting at the nearby Granite Belt wine region. There are also guided four day treks ending in a night of luxury at the lodge.

Pretty Beach House

Pretty Beach House is the epitome of relaxed luxury and elegance for those looking for a private getaway not far from Sydney. A serene escape nestled within the heart of the NSW Bouddi National Park and high above Pretty Beach (just a 5 minute drive away), here you’ll find the perfect balance of intimacy, privacy and personalised butler service. With just four luxurious pavilions a group can have this exclusive Australian accommodation all to themselves.

Arkaba

Arkaba’s true luxury is delivered by the fact that its 60,000 acres are shared by just 10 guests, taking the definition of exclusivity to a new level in Australia. Located in the ancient and awe-inspiring grand scale landscape of the Flinders Ranges, Arkaba is a genuine blend of conservation and tourism.

Arkaba’s team of expert field guides live and breathe the bush and through a mix of guided walks, open top safari drives and sheer passion, they will open up the secrets of one of Australia’s most fascinating and spectacular landscapes.

Exclusive Australian accommodation for groups at Arkaba — Spot unique Australian wildlife on a sunset safari at Arkaba

Cape Lodge

With 22 romantically secluded rooms and a magnificent five bedroom private luxury Residence, Cape Lodge in the Margaret River Region of Western Australia sits on 40 acres of manicured parkland and ornamental lakes and has its own 8 acre vineyard producing fine Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz exclusively for guests of the hotel. The superb Cape Lodge Restaurant is voted one of the ‘Top Ten in the World for Food’ in Conde Nast Traveller’s Gold List and is described as “one of Australia’s finest new generation dining establishments.”

Private, tailor-made activities in the nearby surrounds of Margaret River can include wine tasting (of course!), devouring some of the best regional produce in the country, learning about the Aboriginal significance of the region, surfing the world-famous breaks, multi-day walks, whale watching, truffle-hunting and much more. Read our review here.

Crystalbrook Lodge

Hidden in the rugged outback of North Queensland this secret outback mecca catering to only 10 guests is an oasis of luxury perched over the spectacular Crystalbrook Lake.

The lake is haven to a staggering range of wildlife including birds, freshwater crocodiles and fish; a nature lover’s paradise, guests can spend days on the lake or riverside, exploring the bush wilderness or just enjoying the serenity and stillness of the outback in the lodge’s private manicured grounds. Keen fishermen will be hooked on giant barramundi or heli-fishing in the gulf rivers. Here in “big sky” country, the colours of dawn and dusk bookend nature’s daily theatre.

Travelling with groups of friends is one of the loveliest ways to spend time. On the other hand, trying to organise everybody can be difficult and sometimes pleasing everyone can be tough work. This is where Alquemie comes in. Our Alquemists are specialists at crafting magical holidays and ensuring that each and every traveller has the trip of a lifetime. Get in touch today.

Click here to find out more about Australian travel with Alquemie

Unique and exclusive Luxury Holidays Australia

Posted on July 12, 2016February 3, 2020 by Nicola Billens

At Alquemie the unique holidays we craft are unparalleled. Our expert team are specialists in designing itineraries for high-net-worth individuals travelling to Australia who demand discretion, precision planning and an authentic and unique experience. We create one-of-a-kind luxury holidays Australia that leave lasting memories through exclusive experiences.

To us, the true luxury is sometimes in the exclusivity of being one of only a few to experience something. For example, Arkaba, a Wild Bush Luxury property in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia is a private wildlife conservancy roughly five times the size of Sydney harbour. This is shared by only ten guests in supreme comfort, with fabulous food and wine, and one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. It is this exclusivity that creates the true luxury.

Luxury Holidays Australia at Arkaba — Arkaba is one of Australia’s most exclusive properties

In the Top End of Australia lies Bamurru Plains, another Wild Bush Luxury property where again exclusivity is the true luxury although great food and wine are a given. Guests stay in safari-style bungalows with mesh walls on three sides and expansive views out overlooking flood plains where the wildlife roam free. Activities such as airboat safaris or game drives show off the spectacular wilderness in this exotic part of Australia.

At Bamurru Plains guests can airboat over the Mary River Flood Plains

On the Great Barrier Reef you’ll find that luxury comes in many styles. On Lizard Island you can take your own private dinghy to one of 23 white sand beaches that you are likely to have all to yourself.

SUP board on Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

For those who prefer the luxury that an urban escape can bring, we call upon our network of guides and experts to show you a side of our cities you wouldn’t find yourself.

Whether it’s our cities, the outback or the coast, there is no end to what Alquemie’s specialists can conjure up. Download our Holiday Planning Guide for more inspiration then allow us to reveal the magic of Australia through a carefully constructed itinerary that will enchant, educate and surprise.

Hero image: El Questro Homestead in the Kimberley

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Luxury Australian Itinerary – Wine Flight – Margaret River, The Barossa Valley & Kangaroo Island

Posted on September 1, 2020September 23, 2020 by Nicola Billens

Wine Flight Spend 2-3 nights at each property. This itinerary works equally well in reverse. Not surprisingly wine region culture so often seeds a strong food culture and vice versa. The two simply go hand in hand. Australia’s reputation as a premium wine-producing country is undisputed. Wine lovers from around the world are drawn to […]
Family escape to Byron Bay

Posted on August 27, 2020September 23, 2020 by Nicola Billens

Take your family on a well-deserved family break to Byron Bay with this 3-night package that will keep both the kids and the grown-ups happy. You won’t need to lift a finger, staying in luxury with all meals prepared by a local chef, daily turn down service and family friendly activities planned for you and […]
3-night Byron Bay Hinterland luxury escape for a group of friends

Posted on August 27, 2020September 2, 2020 by Nicola Billens

We’ve put together an easy escape for a group of 6 friends in the gorgeous Byron Bay Hinterland. Think of it as your own private luxury hotel with all meals and activities taken care of. All you need to do is turn up. You’ll have exclusive use of your own private luxury accommodation in acres […]

Pretty Beach House

Posted on April 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Oooo so Pretty!

It is such a joy to experience properties that make you go ‘WOW!’… and Pretty Beach House is one of them.

The Alquemie team recently visited Pretty Beach House, a 90 minute drive north of Sydney that feels worlds away. This exclusive four room luxury lodge represents so much of what we love about Australia. While its name comes from the suburb that it is located in, the property is actually in the middle of Australian bushland. Immediately you feel connected to the surrounding environment: the smell, the sounds, the view are all incredibly tranquil.

Treetops Bedroom at Pretty Beach House on the Bouddi Peninsula, New South Wales

Then you eat… and oh my do you eat… with a highly regarded chef behind it all guests enjoy quality Australian produce prepared perfectly. Meals are served in the dining room of the main house, with an open kitchen allowing guests to learn about what they are eating from the chef. Want to get closer to the action? Then you are welcome to dine right at the kitchen bench… the choice is all yours!

Gorgeous Angophras tree at Pretty Beach House on the Bouddi Peninsula, New South Wales

Filled to the brim it’s time to retire to your room or the living area for a bit of relaxation – a good book, a luscious bath, or perhaps a dip in the main pool or your own private plunge pool (with the exception of one room).

For those more active you could opt for one of the various bush walks, and you can easily head down to some of the nearby beaches or local towns. Being such a small property the choice is all yours, and the team go out of their way personalising your stay. In saying that with a property this stunning no one could blame you for staying put and making the most of it!

Bayview Suite at Pretty Beach House on the Bouddi Peninsula, New South Wales

Rooms are generously sized, and each has its own character. The design is luxurious without being over the top, and the collection of artwork by some of the Australia’s most famous artists is really impressive. All very much in keeping with the surrounds.
Just when you think things can’t get much better you are called for a traditional Aboriginal welcome ceremony. This intimate and interactive experience is extremely interesting, and you walk away with a well rounded perspective on Australia’s indigenous culture. A very touching and personal story.

It is not simply the individual elements that stand out here, but rather Pretty Beach House is the whole package!

An Elder - part of an Aboriginal cultural experience near Pretty Beach House, Bouddi Peninsula — An Elder – part of an Aboriginal Welcome to Country Ceremony near Pretty Beach House, Bouddi Peninsula

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COMO The Treasury Perth

Posted on April 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

COMO comes to Perth

We seem to be having a run of exciting hotel updates recently, one of which is the announcement of COMO Hotels and Resorts opening their first property in Australia. COMO The Treasury Perth is set to transform the hotel landscape in Western Australia. The COMO brand is well known in destinations around the world for its refined style, outstanding service, and signature COMO Shambhala spa.

Located in the the heart of Perth’s urban landscape the landmark Treasury Building has been transformed into the city’s most luxurious hotel. Designed by renowned Kerry Hill Architects the hotel will have just 48 rooms and suites across three connected historic buildings. The paired back design is extremely chic, and incorporates various elements of the original buildings.

We are very excited to discover the new restaurants and bars that are also opening on this site – with some big names rumoured to be making an appearance. Perth is a wonderful gateway for guests looking to explore the Margaret River wine region, or transiting on their way to other parts of the country such as the remote Kimberley region in the north west, or the stunning Ningaloo Reef.
Opening mid October 2016 we can’t wait to welcome COMO to Perth!

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Cape Lodge – Margaret River

Posted on January 10, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Cape Lodge – Reviewed

As we turned into Cape Lodge, my travelling friend and I both felt a sense of calm, of tranquillity. There are rows of grape vines in the distance, some grand old trees in the gardens and a scattering of elegant buildings that sit comfortably in the lovely, relaxed grounds – nothing jars! Our two night stay was about discovering more of the Margaret River region but I was excited to be staying in the recently refurbished Lake View Suites and dining in the refurbished restaurant – such a treat!

The Cape Lodge team are always welcoming and we were shown to our rooms after a cup of tea in the lounge and a chance to pick Veronique’s brain about where we should have lunch the next day. With beautiful views across the lake, the spacious suites are fabulous. The décor is warm with touches of vibrant grape-green, the bathrooms are open plan and yet provide for modesty if required. The beds are huge and comfortable, a sofa is positioned to enjoy the view and the carpet is the type that makes you wiggle your toes. Plush, rich, relaxed, serene … these are the words that spring to mind.

We wandered over to the restaurant for dinner and gone are the dark plums of its past! The restaurant and bar have new life, again a new colour palate, this time cool & fresh colours that allow the focus to be where it should be – on the stunning cuisine that is thoughtfully and artfully plated up. We opted for the 5 course tasting menu and loved the delicious flavours, sensible portion sizes and impeccable wine pairing. On our second night we enjoyed a shared platter in the bar – after a full day of wine touring and eating this was more than enough and is a really smart offering.

We can report that we would happily go back there again every weekend – Cape Lodge offers a regional experience that has just the right amount of relaxed friendly style, sophisticated cuisine and beautiful surrounds. Well done on the refurb, Cape Lodge you’re looking great!

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Bennelong at Sydney Opera House

Posted on September 11, 2015July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Bennelong Reborn

As one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia, the Sydney Opera House is hard to miss. Housed in one of the heritage sails is Bennelong restaurant that opened a few months ago with much fanfare. Peter Gilmore is the man behind it all, with a loyal following and several restaurants (Quay is right across the water), he is considered one of Australia’s best chefs.

Gilmore’s goal was to create dining spaces that are a little more casual than the Bennelong restaurant that occupied the same space previously under a different chef. The result is rather impressive with the cathedral like space renovated to allow various dining areas. On the top level there is a private dining space along with a more casual eating section. The middle level is home to the ‘cured and cultured’ bar serving a variety of raw and cold produce (picture a glass of bubbly with a few oysters). The flagship restaurant is on the main floor serving refined Australian cuisine on a three course a la carte menu.

Bennelong restaurant at Sydney Opera House

The food is stunning and showcases fine Australian produce prepared perfectly to highlight its quality. Everything is of the highest standard from the super fresh oysters, to the tender beef, to the perfectly prepared single carrot that sits on your plate like an artwork. The wine list boats a great selection of Australia producers, and again re-inforces Gilmore’s desire to create a dining experience that is utterly Australian.

With panoramic views of the city this is a dining experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Get in touch with us to book your next exquisite dinning experience in Sydney.

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