In issue 3 of ele Magazine we explored 50 incredible Must-Visit Australian destinations. One of these destinations is the magnificent Lord Howe Island, 3,600 acres of unspoilt, natural and remote beauty in the Tasman Sea a two-hour flight (780km) northeast of Sydney.
The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it isn’t difficult to see why. Dominating the island’s landscape is the majestic Mount Gower, which overlooks the beaches, inlets, lush green hills and coral reefs of the island.
The island only caters for 400 guests at any one time so you never feel like you are at a busy holiday destination. There are very few cars on the island and the speed limit is only 25km an hour, so there is a sense that no one is ever in a real rush. You can walk everywhere and are never too far from a beautiful beach or restaurant. It really is a true ‘get-away-from-it-all’ escape.
What To Do
You can do as little or as much as you like on Lord Howe, from days spent snorkelling, soaking up the sun or simply reading a good book, to being more adventurous and exploring the island or hiking up Mount Gower, there are plenty of activities to fill your days with. You can hand feed fish or snorkel and dive with them while you explore the stunning coral reefs.
If you feel like being active you can golf, hike, paddle board, kayak and play lawn bowls on the island. If you are feeling a little more relaxed try a public or private yoga session or a relaxing massage.
Where To Stay
Accommodation is varied – from upscale luxury resorts to more modest guest houses, however as accommodation is limited our advice is to make sure you book your flights and accommodation at the same time so you don’t miss out on finding a place to stay – this isn’t the sort of place you just turn up to looking for a room.
If you want a true island barefoot luxury experience try Capella Lodge or Arajilla Retreat, for more affordable options try the Blue lagoon Lodge or Lorhiti. For a full range of accommodation options visit here and for a full range of dining options on the island, visit here.
Image: Destination NSW
Things To Note
The island is too far from the mainland for mobile phone reception which is a real treat for those seeking to truly get away from it all. There is limited wi-fi available, but barring emergencies, you should head to Lord Howe with a view toget off the grid for a bit and truly relax away from the distractions of the tech world.
There are shops to provide all of the necessities you may need during your stay including a post office, newsagency, supermarket and souvenir shop. You may find the prices are a little higher than the Australian mainland owing to the fact that everything has to be freighted in to the island.
The currency used is the Australian dollar and you should bring cash and cards as not all places accept credit card.
There is a limit if 15kg checked luggage on flights to Lord Howe, so packing light and sensibly is the best option. You will need casual clothes for day and smart casual for the evening. Weather can be cool during winter so come prepared and no matter what time of the year you visit you should be prepared with a raincoat.
Unlike the mainland there are no stingers or snakes on the island which means that kids and adults can roam and swim freely without worry.
Lord Howe Island is an escape that should be on your list to visit at least once in your lifetime.
Want more? Click here for Tasmania’s Huon Valley and here for Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia.
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