Capella Lodge
World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island is a crescent-shaped sub-tropical island in the South Pacific Ocean, a two-hour flight from Sydney.
The nine suites are designed in the style of sophisticated beach houses that compliment the Lodge's contemporary style. Capella is also the best place to eat on the island, serving contemporary Pacific cuisine in a restaurant offering spectacular views of the lagoon and mountains.
Activities on offer include exploring the island by bike or on foot, snorkelling or boating trips or just relaxing in the tranquil surroundings - a maximum of just 400 visitors are allowed at any time on Lord Howe Island.
Why We Love It
Capella Lodge, overlooking idyllic Lover's Bay, is the only five star property on the island, with accommodation for no more than 20 guests.
Paperbark Camp
An authentic bush retreat in the untouched Jervis Bay, and on the edge of three National Parks, Paperbark Camp is the perfect antidote to city life.
Accommodation is comprised of 12 safari-style canvas tents, all raised off the ground. All have wrap around verandas and ensuite bathrooms that are outside as well as in, and the deluxe tents have freestanding baths with great views.
The 'Gunyah', meaning meeting place in aboriginal, houses the restaurant, which is again raised off the ground so guests can enjoy the breeze and the position in the tree tops. In the summer, dine al fresco on the terrace and watch the resident possums at play and in the winter, curl up next to the open fire.
Located in the bush, there are walking trails aplenty and the scenery is spectacular. Walk through the paperbark, gum and mangrove forests, and at night grab a torch and look out for possums and other nocturnal animals. There are also complimentary bikes and canoes, massages upon request, and the white sand beaches of Jervis Bay in Booderee National Park are close by.
Why We Love It
A great way to see the scenery is by canoe. We recommend the Paperbark challenge, which involves canoeing to Huskisson and back, with a picnic and swim stop en route.
Park Hyatt Sydney
The hotel Park Hyatt Sydney is right on the water's edge of Sydney Harbour, with spectacular views of the famous Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
The hotel is situated in the historic Rocks district, just five minutes from the central business, cultural and shopping districts of Sydney. There are 163 stylish guestrooms and suites and the harbourkitchen restaurant and bar is one of the most renowned of Sydney restaurant, serving beautiful meals against a backdrop of spectacular harbour views.
There is also a Spa Park Hyatt where guests can relax and enjoy the ultimate in pampering. The hotel is custom-designed for discriminating travellers who seek privacy, personalised service and outstanding quality during their stay. The Park Hyatt offers a spectacular view from the top floors of a high-rise, city-centre building right on one of the world's most prestigious avenues.
The hotel brilliantly combines elegance and contemporary architecture using internationally acclaimed architects, designers and artists to create the most inspirational surroundings.
Why We Love It
The Harbourkitchen and Harbourbar wine lists offer one of the best selections of excellent Aussie wines anywhere in the city.
The Byron
Set within a stunning 45-acre rainforest, the hotel is just minutes from the unspoiled Tallow Beach.
The Byron at Byron Resort consists of 92 air-conditioned one-bedroom suites, a ten minute rainforest walk from Tallow Beach.
All the suites feature luxurious bathrooms, dining areas and two enclosed balconies. The main building, designed in Balinese style, is the heart of the resort with doors opening onto wide verandahs overlooking the spectacular rainforest canopy.
The restaurant serves contemporary Aussie tucker in an al fresco dining setting, and the acclaimed spa has six treatment rooms, a relaxation area, Vichy shower (us neither), Lithos hot stone massage, body wraps, facials, hydrotherapy treatments and specialised spa therapies.
Why We Love It
The huge acreage of this hotel's site means you will have all the space and privacy you need.
Spicers Potts Point
Fusing contemporary design with Victorian architecture, Spicers Potts Point is a boutique inner city hotel with enough charm to match its hip location.
The 20 rooms are all spacious and decorated with stylish contemporary furniture. The colour schemes are neutral and the rooms are airy and cosy, while the bathrooms are sleek, bright and luxurious. For an extra special stay opt for the Victoria Terrace Suite which features a gorgeous private terrace overlooking the leafy street.
A la carte breakfasts are included in the cost of the stay and the hotel recommends a selection of great restaurants for guests to try out for dinner.
Staying in the heart of Potts Point means guests will be able to take full advantage of city centre life, while also enjoying the slower pace of this leafy area. The bustling atmosphere of Sydney harbour is just a half an hour walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens, while the various cafes, shops and restaurants in Potts Point are on your doorstep.
Why We Love It
The white wrought iron fencing on the balcony and at the front of the property is completely picture perfect.