Accommodation Archives - Page 4 of 4

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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Lizard Island

Posted on September 9, 2015July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Lizard Island is back!

We are very excited to have Lizard Island, one of our favourite tropical islands on the Great Barrier Reef is back after a full refurbishment. We absolutely love this resort as it boasts some of the most impressive coastal scenery, located right on the reef, and paired with quintessentially laid back Australian luxury – a truly magical destination!

Anchor Bay suite at Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island is located off the coast of North Queensland, accessible by charter or scheduled flights from Cairns. The resort has been closed for some time while it has undergone a full refurbishment – including all suites and public areas. We have had our first few clients stay and the feedback is as wonderful as ever. The chic new rooms are fitting with the surrounding environment, and the common areas retain their relaxed atmosphere.

Flying over to Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

As lovely as the rooms are, the focus is most definitely on the reef. Lizard is quite unique in that the island has an impressive reef in a protected lagoon just around from the resort. Guests have access to reserve a motorised dinghie for the day where they can roam as they please. Swim amongst turtles, giant clams, and abundant marine life before picking a secluded private beach to settle down with a gourmet picnic lunch. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Water-based activities at Lizard Island Beach Club on the Great Barrier Reef

For guests that are interested in diving there are various outer reef sites within easy reach of the resort, and arguably some of the best in North Queensland. Those wanting to stay put needn’t worry – the spa, fabulous food and wine selection, and stunning accommodation will ensure guests can relax in style! Welcome back Lizard – we are excited…

A blissful sandy cove at Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

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