Pretty by name, pretty by nature

Set high on the escarpment overlooking beautiful Pretty Beach and nestled in the breathtaking Boudii National Park, Pretty Beach House is the perfect place for a luxurious getaway.

Story by Lauren Broomham

This private guesthouse-style hotel is just 100km north of Sydney on the Bouddi Peninsula, but feels a world away from the bright lights of the city. Recently listed as Australia’s number one hotel in the ‘Hot Hotels of the World’ list compiled by Conde Nast USA, it has a casual, relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. A sister property to Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Pretty Beach House is run by the same team of proprietors Karina and Brian Barry, chef Stefano Manfredi and restaurateur Julie Manfredi Hughes and focuses on providing its guests with round-the-clock service in stunning surroundings.

Set on 7½ acres, the property has just three one-bedroom pavilions which are clustered around the Main House, and their names really say it all: Treetops, Bayview and Hideaway. Each offers spectacular views through the eucaplyt trees down to the dazzling Brisbane Waters, and comprises a spacious bedroom with a separate dressing room and luxurious bathroom where you can soak away any troubles in the huge tub on your arrival. The open-plan sitting area features a fully stocked bar and combustion fireplace, while the dining, lounge and bathrooms lead to a private deck with a day bed and heated plunge pool that you’ll have all to yourself.

Taking inspiration from the picturesque landscape, the chic interiors were designed by Christina Jeffrey and incorporate local sandstone and recycled timbers to reflect the beauty of the natural environment. Simple, elegant decor, with tub chairs crafted from vintage leather, and gorgeous 1930s travel trunks and handcrafted tables add to the pleasing effect. Local artists were commissioned to use fallen branches from the nearby angophoras to create sculptures that provide an eye-catching feature throughout the building. Head over to the Main House and you’ll find an atrium-style dining and lounge area, complete with cocktail bar and wine cellar. Feel free to kick back and relax with a drink in front of the open fireplace or take a dip in the infinity pool which overlooks the beach.

A highlight of a stay at Pretty Beach House is Stefano Manfredi’s delicious Italian-style cuisine, with meals available to order at any time of the day. One of Australia’s best-known chefs, Italian-born Manfredi is in charge of Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant and Bar and is passionate about working with growers and sourcing new and local produce. And as with Bells at Killcare, the food at Pretty Beach House is also designed and prepared ‘casa linga’ style with an emphasis on elegant service and fine food. Guests can dine privately in their pavilion, in the main dining area or wine cellar, or enjoy an al-fresco meal anywhere on the property.

This beautiful bushland setting was certainly designed for relaxation, but for those looking for an adventure, there are a variety of outdoor experiences available to guests. Why not take a professionally guided bushwalk along the coastline or enjoy a fishing trip on the 38-foot Pretty Beach CABO game boat? For a fabulous day trip, take the boat for a cruise to some of the secluded bays and beaches in the area with a Pretty Beach House picnic hamper along for the ride. Just 90 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Pretty Beach House can also be reached by ferry from Sydney’s beautiful Palm Beach, so there’s no reason not to make your next getaway to this luxurious location.

Pretty Beach House
Tel: +61 2 4360 1933
Tel: 1300 PRETTY
Facsimile: +61 2 4360 2253
Email: stay@prettybeachhouse.com.au

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