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Tag / Byron Bay

Savour the Extraordinary: Culture, Private Islands & Vineyard Escapes

Posted on by CTG Marketing

We are delighted to share with you some of the latest treasures the Alquemie team have uncovered in recent months. An unforgettable selection of immersive, cultural, and luxurious experiences across Australia. From opulent accommodations to exclusive cultural tours that promise to elevate your guest’s journey and immerse them in the very essence of Australia’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Prepare to be inspired…….

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
RUMI on Louth
Location: Louth Island

Experience unparalleled luxury at South Australia’s newest, luxury eco-resort, Rumi on Louth. Nestled off the coast of Port Lincoln on the stunning & wild Eyre Peninsula. Boasting a blend of understated elegance amidst breathtaking wilderness the resort catering to both thrill-seekers and those seeking privacy and rejuvenation.

Spend your days paddle boarding in serene blue waters, lounging in beachside cabanas, or experiencing the thrill of wind-in-your-hair excitement as you race across the remote landscape on a private buggy adventure. Boasting four suites and one apartment with decedent furnishings, open-plan living and panoramic ocean views. Guests will enjoy fresh local cuisine, world-class service, and the serenity of this barefoot luxurious coastal setting. 

TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS
Strait Experience

A truly unique and culturally immersive experience amongst the enchanting beauty of the Torres Strait. The far northern coast between Australia and Papa New Guinea. Strait Experience features bespoke touring off the tourist trap. Guests can discover the rich history of Thursday Island, spend a day at Pajinka – the tip of Australia or enjoy the stunning, untouched beauty of MASIG Island, with its pristine beaches and remote indigenous community of welcoming, talented locals.

An unforgettable opportunity to experience the magic of indigenous culture through traditional song and dance, offering a rare glimpse into a unique way of life. Enjoy captivating stories, learn from talented artists, discover local cuisine, and sample traditional dishes that unveil the hidden gems of one of Australia’s most captivating regions.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA AMPERSAND ESTATE
Ampersand Estate
Location:  Pemberton Wine Region

Ampersand Estate is Margaret River regions newest luxury retreat nestled in the heart of Pemberton. This picturesque destination is teeming with natural beauty, white sandy beaches and world-renowned wine culture.

The estate showcases three premium residences, each offering spacious, elegant living areas and private terraces with sweeping vineyard views. Guests can savour the estate’s fine wines and distillery, enjoy bespoke amenities, and fully embrace Margaret River’s many celebrated attractions. From the infamous Cape to Cape coastal walk to the majestic karri forests, waterfalls, and turquoise bays. Adventure seekers will enjoy 4WD trips to the expansive sand dunes or mountain biking the exhilarating trails through lush forests and rugged terrain. Ampersand Estate promises a truly unforgettable experience on the Western Australia coastline.

Expand your Australian Bucket list!

Reach out to our team for more information on any of the features experiences.

info@alquemie.com.ausm

Discover Alquemie’s New, Immersive Australian Experiences

Posted on by CTG Marketing

We are thrilled to bring you our latest collection of exceptional Australian product uncovered by the Alquemie team in recent months. Get ready to discover extraordinary accommodation and touring options that showcase the best of Australia’s unique and premium experiences….

NORTHERN TERRITORY
Cyaround Australia Tours
Location: Top End

TopEnd

Discover the wonders of the Top End with bespoke private tours that encompass Litchfield National Park, Kakadu National Park, and Nitmiluk National Park. Guests can explore the rugged landscapes, thundering waterfalls, ancient rock art, and diverse wildlife that characterise this iconic region. Choose between a single day tour or multi-day itineraries. This multi-award-winning dynamic duo have in-depth knowledge and exceptional attention to detail – perfect for the astute traveller. They provide a unique opportunity to delve into these National Parks away from large crowds, providing a chance to reconnect with nature and engage deeply with Australia’s vibrant Aboriginal culture. 

WaterHole

NEW SOUTH WALES
The Brooklet
Location: Byron Bay

The Brooklet

The Brooklet, situated in the stunning Byron Bay Hinterland opened in mid-2023. Offering a mix of luxury accommodation, wellness amenities, and hospitality, showcasing local produce and beverages. An adults-only retreat featuring six luxury one and 2-bedroom villas and a beautifully renovated 3-bedroom house (with exclusive use the property can accommodate families with children).  Blending country charm with coastal luxury across its 125-acre estate. Guests can enjoy amenities including a 25-metre pool, hot tub, sauna, tennis court, and sustainable practices including farm regeneration and eco-friendly products.

Byron Bay and its surrounding hinterland is the ideal spot to soak in the Australian sun, with spectacular pristine beaches, vibrant markets, coastal walks and lush rainforest hikes, offering the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.

The Brooklet - Interior

NEW SOUTH WALES
OSBORN HOUSE
Location:  Southern Highlights

Osborne House

Osborn House, nestled between Morton National Park and Bundanoon Village in the Southern Highlands region, has recently expanded its luxury offerings with the introduction of five new Forest Lodges and a Forest Bathing Deck. These additions aim to provide guests with a secluded and lavish experience amidst nature. Each Forest Lodge is meticulously designed to offer maximum privacy and luxury, featuring bespoke lighting, bohemian-style vintage rugs, timber-panelled walls, and classic décor.

Guests can unwind with a wood fire and indulge in the breathtaking views from their free-standing outdoor baths. The highlight of the Lodges is the exclusive Forest Bathing Deck, accessible only to Forest Lodge guests. This serene retreat is equipped with an ice bath, sauna, jacuzzi, and fire pit, providing a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Osborn House also offers an array of additional amenities, including a day spa, lap pool, gym, and various dining options showcasing local produce. The hotel further enriches the guest experience with curated Southern Highlands activities such as wine tours, golf, and bush walks, ensuring a bespoke stay for every visitor.

Osborn House

Expand your Australian Bucket list!

Reach out to our team for more information on any of the features experiences.

info@alquemie.com.au

Family escape to Byron Bay

Posted on 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 your loved ones.

You’ll have exclusive use of your own secluded luxury retreat with a private pool and hinterland views.  Surrounded by national parkland, escarpment and rainforest, it’s is the perfect place to forget it all and just enjoy the peacefulness of a mountain setting.

Inclusions:

  • 3-Nights luxury accommodation (Exclusive use for your family – up to ten people)
  • All Meals ( and some beverages ) including chef prepared breakfasts & dinners, daily snacks, Three Blue Ducks Lunch, private luxe Beach Picnic
  • Daily turn down service
  • Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Tour Private Guided Tour including Brookies Farm and Distillery as well as Crystal Castle
    Byron Bay Highlights Private Guided Tour including inside the Byron Lighthouse
  • Kids Local Cooking Lesson
  • Private Brunswick River Cruise including kayaks and SUP’s as well as a beach picnic
  • Airport Transfers ex Ballina Airport

 

DAY ONE
Fly into Ballina Airport where your local host will be waiting to escort you

Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Tour 
Meet your local host at Ballina Airport before spending an afternoon exploring Byron Bay’s hinterland.
The first stop is the local Brook family’s 96-acre farm ‘Brookies’ located high on the ridgeline above Byron Bay with views to the iconic Lighthouse and along the coastline.

On arrival, meet your host and commence a journey through the story of the Brook family farm and distillery. Parents may wish to start with a Brookie’s Gin & Tonic garnished with Native Finger Lime & Aniseed Myrtle prior to venturing into the subtropical rainforest with your host. See, smell, and touch the native rainforest ingredients such as Macadamias that can be found in the famous Brookfarm Muesli.

Returning to the distillery, parents may wish to participate in a fun sensory tasting experience while the kids spot wildlife and take in the views of the rainforest from the deck. Continuing the journey, stand between two of the tallest crystals on earth and sit inside an ancient amethyst cave at Crystal Castle and Shambala Gardens. As you wander through the tranquil Shambhala Gardens and rainforest, keep an eye out for resident Koalas.

Check into your luxury accommodation. Welcome drinks and afternoon snacks will be provided on arrival.

Enjoy a local chef prepared dinner with beverages.

DAY TWO
Morning: Breakfast at leisure

Private Behind the Scenes Byron Bay Highlights 
Meet your guide at your accommodation before setting off for the day to explore Byron Bay and surrounds.
Visit Cape Byron Lighthouse and the most easterly point of the Australian mainland. Take a private tour of the lighthouse where you will climb to the top to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Byron Bay and the hinterland. Spot dolphins, turtles, and rays from the cliffs high above. Learn about the ancient aboriginal history of the Bundjalung Nation as well as the more recent history of Byron Bay and its Lighthouse keepers.

Enjoy a coffee or an ice cream at the Lighthouse café.

Lunch at Three Blue Ducks at The Farm, Byron Bay
The Farm and Three Blue Ducks restaurant is set on an 80-acre farm and Macadamia Orchard on the outskirts of Byron Bay. The chefs work closely with ethical growers and producers to deliver rustic, nourishing, delicious dishes that reflect the goodness of the local produce.

Following lunch, wander along the farm trail past the pigs in their mud bath, the 700 Bond Brown chickens, past the macadamia orchard and the fields planted with produce served in the restaurant.

Afternoon Kids Cooking Lesson
While the parents relax, kids can join the local chef to learn how to make treats such as Muesli Bars featuring Brookfarm muesli or perhaps Gingerbread cookies featuring locally grown ginger.

Optional afternoon massage for the adults can be arranged at additional cost.

Chef prepared Dinner
Enjoy a local chef prepared dinner with beverages.

DAY THREE
Morning: Breakfast at leisure

Private Brunswick River Cruise 
Departing your accommodation, travel to the village of Brunswick Heads where you will board a leisurely private cruise on the beautiful Brunswick River. As you cruise along the river you will see rainforest river scenery and have the chance to spot amazing birdlife, wildlife, and marine life. Pull into a sheltered estuary with a white sand beach to take a short kayak tour or even try your hand at Stand-Up Paddle Boarding with your guide.

Beach Picnic lunch
Picture yourselves feasting on the best local products sourced by renowned chefs in an unforgettable beach setting. Luxury Turkish towels, picnic rugs, cushions and funky Moroccan style beach umbrellas will provide comfort while you enjoy an afternoon by the sea. Beach games will also keep the kids entertained.

Afternoon: Explore Brunswick Heads
While in the area, take a stroll around the delightful, unspoilt village of Brunswick Heads. ‘Bruns’ as it is known to locals has retained its traditional seaside village atmosphere.

You may wish to stroll around the village and explore the eclectic boutiques and retro-vintage treasures or perhaps follow the fairy trail to find over 20 unique, hand-made fairy houses.

Chef prepared Dinner
Enjoy a local chef prepared dinner with beverages.

DAY FOUR
Morning: Morning & Breakfast at leisure
Your local host will transfer you to Ballina Airport

Block-out: 15 December 2020 – 10 January 2021

Contact the team at Alquemie at info@alquemie.com.au.

3-night Byron Bay Hinterland luxury escape for a group of friends

Posted on 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 of green rain forest, with spectacular views Eastwards to Cape Byron and the Pacific Ocean. Located in the Byron Hinterland, this boutique bed and breakfast has been impeccably designed to be close to nature and close to the hearts of the founders and hosts.  The interior palette includes Moroccan tiled bathrooms with naked copper fittings; super-lux King size beds with Egyptian cotton linen on burnished concrete floors; unique reclaimed timber cabinetry, and warm birch ply panelled walls. Wake up to the ultimate framed view, where the mountains meet the sea. The 10 metre mineral magnesium pool is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a drink overlooking Cape Byron.

Inclusions:

  • 3-nights Luxury Accommodation (Exclusive use for your group of 6)
  • All meals (and some beverages ) including chef prepared dinners and breakfasts, Brunch at Beach Byron Bay, Private beach picnic
  • Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Private Guided Tour including Brookies Farm & Gin distillery
  • Bubbles on arrival at accommodation, cheese board and chocolates served to pavilions
  • Minyon Falls Rainforest Walk, Private Guided walk and lunch
  • ‘Forest to Beach’ Sunset Private Horse Ride
  • Cape Byron Sea Kayak Shared Tour
  • Airport Transfers ex Ballina Airport

 

 

ITINERARY

DAY ONE
Fly into Ballina Airport where your local host will be waiting to escort you.

Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Tour 
Meet your local host at Ballina Airport before spending an afternoon exploring Byron Bay’s hinterland. The first stop is the local Brook family’s 96-acre farm ‘Brookies’ located high on the ridgeline above Byron Bay with views to the iconic Lighthouse and along the coastline.

On arrival, meet your host and commence a journey through the story of the Brook family farm and distillery. Begin with a Brookie’s Gin & Tonic garnished with Native Finger Lime & Aniseed Myrtle. Join your host on a stroll through the subtropical rainforest – see, smell, and touch the native rainforest botanicals that are used in the award-winning Brookie’s Byron Dry Gin. Return to the distillery where you will be guided through a fun sensory tasting experience by the distillery team.

Check into your luxury accommodation late afternoon and enjoy bubbles served on arrival. An afternoon massage can be arranged at additional cost.

Dinner will be prepared this evening by the 2018 winners of My Kitchen Rules, Alex and Emily. Enjoy a casual flavour driven menu accompanied by views that stretch across the Byron coastline and Pacific Ocean.

DAY TWO
Breakfast at leisure

Minyon Falls Rainforest Walk 
This morning you will join an environmental scientist on a private 2-hour / 4-kilometre rainforest walk. Explore this amazing rainforest ecosystem, see wildlife, and experience the wonder of Minyon Falls located 100-metres above the valley floor within the World Heritage listed Nightcap National Park. Enjoy a swim at the waterfall and picnic lunch before returning to your accommodation.

‘Forest to Beach’ sunset horseback ride 
Join the Zephyr Horses team for a sunset ‘Forest to Beach’ trail ride. On arrival you will be introduced to one of their twenty horses. Spend some time getting to know your horse before riding through native Tea Tree forest trails and along Byron’s iconic Belongil Beach. Suitable for beginner riders, Zephyr offers a holistic approach where the you will not only get to ride, but also learn about equipment, grooming, technique, horse behaviour and movement, and horsemanship.

Picture yourselves feasting on the best local products sourced by renowned chefs in an unforgettable setting on Belongil Beach.
Luxury Turkish towels, picnic rugs, cushions and funky Moroccan style beach umbrellas will provide comfort while you enjoy a Champagne picnic as the sun sets.

DAY THREE
Morning Cape Byron Sea Kayak Tour 
Meet your local host then transfer to Byron where you will join a Sea Kayak tour through the surf.
Get up close to playful bottlenose dolphins and keep an eye out for sea turtles and season dependant, you may be lucky enough to come across a pod of migrating whales.

On conclusion of the tour, a short transfer will have you at the ever-popular ‘Beach Byron Bay’ for brunch overlooking Main Beach.

Following brunch, you may wish to explore Byron Bay township or perhaps walk the coastal track to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse located at the most easterly point of the Australian mainland.

Poolside Dinner with Chef Dai Shibata
With an impressive resume in fine dining restaurants, Chef Dai will create a bespoke degustation style dinner featuring in season local produce.

DAY FOUR
Breakfast at leisure.
Transfer to Ballina Airport

Travel Dates: Now until 31 March 2021. ( Subject to availability and excluding peak period 18 December 2020 – 15 January 2021. Surcharges will apply to 10 – 14 December & 21 – 31 January 2021 )

To enquire please contact the team at info@alquemie.com.au.

Australia’s Best Guides – Rusty Miller | Champion surfer

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Rusty Miller

Rusty Miller is a former USA Surfing Champion and Hawaiian big wave rider. Today, he is one of our favourite Australian guides, showing guests the joys of surfing at Byron Bay.

 

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I am a native Californian who came to Byron Bay in 1970 and have lived and surfed here ever since with a few stints away in other places. My surf sessions are combined with my publishing/writing. In 1973 I started the first alternative newspaper in Byron Shire and and in 1984 began publishing the annual Rusty’s Byron Guide. Because I appreciate where I live I have advocated for the social, physical and cutlural environment in Byron since arriving.

What got you started with surfing and what do you find most interesting about it?

I started surfing when I was ten years old in Southern California. I grew up next to the ocean where I didn’t have to lift my head off my pillow to see the surf. In those days there was no career in it. I surf (and still do) for the love of it. In the 1960s I began to compete and in 1965 was the United States surfing champion. I began teaching surfing informally in the ‘70s in Byron Bay and have taught here ever since. I don’t like the word “school” and “teaching” as they imply something that surfing isn’t about. I say that I offer surf sessions to people. I only teach personalised surfing, not big groups of people who don’t know each other. To me surfing is an art form, not a sport. We dance on the waves. This is what I try to explain to people.

How do you bring surfing to life on your tours?

As I have lived and surfed in Byron Bay/shire since 1970 I bring a 46 year history of the place to my surf sessions and Byron town/hinterland tour. I’ve been here through it’s major changes of being a working-class, primary industry community to a one based on tourism, with surfing being a big part of that. I approach my surfing sessions/cultural tuning on a most personal level relative to how I read what my clients might be inclined towards. First of all for the surfing I endeavour to find out what kind of relationship they have previously had with the ocean, if any, and what their physical activity experiences have been. Relative to our community we often talk of history, politics and travel. My Rusty’s Byron Guide byline is People, Politics and Culture. I say that you get more than a surf session with me. The first thing we do is I take you up to the Byron Bay lighthouse and explain the geography and culture of the place. This gives you the context of where you are.

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about surfing?

Surfing is such a joy. It is infinite and allows you to be completely in the moment. I endeavour to demonstrate that the standard perceptions we obtain from media, advertising and promotional material about surfing do not always represent it’s actual essence. Surfing waves can appear to be relatively simple with the appropriate equipment when conducted in the right place at the right time. However, there is a lifetime of learning the ocean and its ways. And, of course, I want people to understand Byron and its unique place in Australia.

If people wanted to find out more about surfing are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?

In Australia there are dozens of books about people who surf and some good ‘how to’ books. Along with my wife, Tricia, we have published two books of my surfing life through my photographs taken between 1968-1973 both here in Byron Bay/Bells Beach and in Hawaii, where I lived for three years from 1967-1970. Our website has a little video filmed by local filmmakers showing how I explain the art of surfing. These same filmakers have made a documentary called Byron, The Meeting Place, which is available as a full length film or a shortened version on-line. It is well worth a look before you get here.

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

Dolphins because they are the best wave riders in the world.

What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?

A secret is a secret.

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

Discover a beach with a good wave I have never surfed before.

Is there anything else you’d like to add that hasn’t been covered by the questions already posed?

The two best learning beaches in the world, The Pass and Wategos Beach, are in the Cape Byron National Park. rustymillersurf has exclusive rights to teach at the main section of these two beaches. On any given day you’ll be surfing with dolphins in clean, blue water. Mornings and sunsets are the best time to be out there as Cape Byron is the most easterly point of the Australian mainland. Uniquely in Australia, The Pass Beach faces west so that not only do we enjoy the sunrises but sunsets as well, about the only place in Australia that this happens.

Finally, how can people follow you on social media?

Instagram: RustyMillerSurf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rusty.miller.surf/

 

Click here to find out more about Australian travel with Alquemie