Description
Lord Howe Island is a remote volcanic treasure, a tiny breathtaking beauty just two hours by air from Sydney. Its diverse collection of scarce flora, fauna and prolific marine life make this is a nature lover’s paradise and with its unspoilt beaches and lack of development or pollution, this really is a rare gem of a destination with 75% of the island being reserved as marine park and subtropical rainforest. Visitor numbers are strictly limited so take your time to explore the many nature trails and the rugged and beautiful coastline in this uncrowded setting.
The lodge itself rests above Lord Howe's secret beach at Lover's Bay at the foot of the twin peaks of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird. A stunning turquoise lagoon stretches out in front of the lodge's indoor and outdoor lounging areas and the clever architectural design means that the floor to ceiling windows, open plan bar, lounge and restaurant really let the outside in - this is somewhere to truly escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The nine spacious, sophisticated suites are superbly appointed with timber floors, washed woods, organic cottons and contemporary furnishings. Add this to the Bose music systems, TV/DVDs and wireless internet and you feel like you are in your own chic beach house.
The daily changing menu is Pacific-themed using the finest freshest seasonal ingredients. Meals are served in the light and airy restaurant with dramatic views over the spectacular mountains and lagoon. A stay at Capella Lodge includes breakfast, sunset drinks and canapes at the bar and a three course dinner with selected wines and soft drinks. Lunch can be eaten in the restaurant or as a picnic or barbeque whilst out exploring.
It is not all about the many adventurous activities on offer - indoor and outdoor treatments can be enjoyed at the Capella Spa with signature treatments indulging tired and weary feet and legs. For the ultimate indulgence try the 3 hour 'dreaming' treatment which incorporates every pampering treatment imaginable and will leave you feeling totally renewed.
Accommodation
There are nine contemporary suites accommodating a maximum of 20 guests and offering views of the ocean, the lagoon and the mountains. These are designed with timber floors, custom furniture piece and striking bathrooms. All suites feature: king beds, Bose music system, TV and DVD player, phone, wifi, safe, mini bar, and en-suite bathrooms with basalt stone bathroom, rain shower, and Capella Spa amenities. Also included is complimentary use of mountain bikes, lagoon kayaks, snorkelling equipment, DVD, book and game library.
| Capella Suite | Single level suite with timber floors, beach house inspired interior and outdoor decking. |
| Catalina Suite | Single level suite with extensive decking and daybed. |
| Lagoon Loft | Mezzanine suite with king bedroom upstairs, private deck with views of the lagoon and the mountains and a spacious downstairs living area. |
| Makambo Loft | Mezzanine suite with stunning mountain views from private verandah leading out of bedroom and decking with plunge spa. |
| Lidgbird Pavilion | Most spacious suite set over two levels. The upper level has the bedroom and wrap around decking providing space to enjoy different views. Ground level features minibar and lounge area and large outdoor decking area with private plunge pool. |
Childcare
Capella Lodge wholly welcomes children over the age of 6 years and has a dedicated family suite and several other suites well suited to children. The activities available here and the spectacular surrounding environment make this a wonderful place for children to visit. There are no formal facilities here but as the lodge is so small the service is very personal and they will do their best with any specific requirements including babysitting which is available on request.
Facilities
The restaurant at Capella Lodge serve delicious fresh food including home baked breads and lodge churned ice creams - the food here is exceptional. The bar has a great wine and cocktail list and Gowers Terrace is THE place to enjoy a drink and canapés while watching the sunset. The Capella Spa is compact but has a wonderful list of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate in either an indoor or outdoor treatment area.
Activities
At Capella Lodge complimentary activities include snorkelling, surfing, canoeing and nature walks. Additional activities include tennis, golf, scuba diving, glass bottom boat excursions and deep sea fishing.
When to travel
In the southern half of Australia the seasons are the opposite of those in the northern hemisphere: spring comes in September, summer is from December to February, autumn runs from March to May, and winter begins in June.
Lord Howe Island is great to visit year round but if you want warm sun and dry weather it is best to try between November and April. Their winter months of May - October usually have mild weather so you can still enjoy all the sights.
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Location and directions
Lord Howe Island, Australia
Rising from the Tasman Sea, in the South Pacific Ocean just 700km northeast of Sydney, Lord Howe Island is just 11km long and 2.8km at widest. Encircled by the world's southern-most coral reef and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1982. Long recognised for its pristine natural heritage, around 75% of the island is permanently preserved as marine park and subtropical rainforest.
How to get there
Qantaslink is the exclusive carrier to Lord Howe Island, flying from Sydney. The flight time is an easy 1-hour 50-minute.
