Set on the spectacular world-heritage listed Lord Howe Island, Arajilla Retreat is ideal for those looking for a peaceful, luxurious break. Recognised by many as Australia’s ‘most beautiful’ island, Lord Howe has the world’s most southern coral reefs, a spectacular coastline, some white sandy beaches, plus lush rainforests and many endemic birds, fish and animals. This is the place for real time out. Arajilla Retreat is the perfect place to enjoy it all in style and comfort. Tucked away under a lush canopy of Kentia Palms and Banyan trees and close to Old Settlement Beach, the Retreat is owned and operated by Bill and Janne Shead, who have lived on Lord Howe Island for over 20 years.
Under the canopy
A range of spacious suites are on offer to suit all tastes, including the bright and airy Kentia Suites which feature a king-size bed, ensuite bathroom, comfy living areas and large private decks overlooking the beach. The Banyan Suites are just the thing for those looking for a little indulgence – there’s a generous king-size bed, separate living room, full bathroom and a kitchenette, plus a private north-facing deck, all close to the beach, restaurant and guest lounge. Or, if you’re catering for a crowd, the Arajilla Suites are well-suited to families or groups of friends; each has two bedrooms, with choice of king-size bed or two singles, ensuite bathrooms, a separate living room and large outdoor deck. All the suites also have a television, DVD player and library and a fully stocked mini bar with a range of local wines, beer, spirits and more; or, if you want to be social, head over to Arajilla’s guest lounge. Cosy and comfortable, it’s a great spot to meet up for cocktails, pre-dinner drinks or a night-cap – there’s also a Happy Hour every evening where guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of selected wine or choose a beverage from the well-stocked bar before dinner. A stay at Arajilla includes a full breakfast, light lunch and a lavish three-course dinner with their choice from a range of Australian and New Zealand wines, served in the Retreat’s restaurant. Decorated in a chic yet casual style, it dishes up international cuisine with an emphasis on seafood, with the evening special often kingfish caught by Bill Shead himself. Guests can also choose to enjoy a meal in their suite – whether it’s breakfast in bed, a casual lunch or even a romantic dinner for two – with room service available throughout the day.
Relax and rejuvenate
Of course, a stay at the Retreat wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its Wellness Spa. Located in a wooden yurt under towering Banyan trees, it provides a relaxing and healing experience using traditional Indian Ayurvedic techniques. The Spa offers four practical wellness programs designed for better health – De-stress, Sleep Easy, Back Management and all-encompassing Lifestyle which includes diet, exercise and thought. There is also a range of treatments to soothe, relax and rejuvenate, from its signature facials – which include face, hand and foot massage to leave you feeling refreshed from head to toe – massages and body polishes to Hahana Hot Stone Therapy. Visitors can also enjoy a wonderful array of activities, from bushwalking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, snorkelling and diving to golf, tennis, surfing and mountain biking, with staff always on hand to help with your next island adventure and bicycles, boards and kayaks available to all guests. As the world’s southernmost coral reef, there is a variety of tropical and temperate fish, sea cucumbers, stingrays, eels and turtles, with many fish species found nowhere else. Lord Howe Island offers snorkelling to view multi-coloured corals and abundant marine life in the island’s safe lagoon at spots such as Erscotts Hole and North Bay. As well, there are plenty of places to explore for both beginner and experienced divers, including Gower's Pinnacle, Rupert's Reef and the Malabar/Landslide, with full PADI instruction available. In addition, there are a number of beaches perfect for swimming and excellent reef and beach surf breaks for boarders and body surfers such as New Mexico and Middle Beach Ledge. There are lots of opportunities for keen bushwalkers too, with the biggest challenge an eight-hour hike to the top of Mt Gower and its amazing views of the island and ocean plus its unique mist forest. You can also trek at a more leisurely pace to nearby attractions such as Mt Eliza and North Beach, enjoying spectacular coastline views, beautiful rainforest and deserted beaches.
All-inclusive
All Arajilla’s suites are also equipped with beach towels, beach chairs, mountain bikes, snorkelling gear, light fishing gear and even a picnic hamper and backpack, so you’ll be ready for whatever you choose to do during your stay. All this is less than a two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane so, just like Lord Howe Island, why not discover the little piece of paradise that is Arajilla Retreat?
Arajilla Retreat
Lord Howe Island
Tel: 1800 063 928 or (02) 6563 2002
Email: reservations@lordhowe.com.au
www.arajilla.com.au
Story by Lauren Broomham