When we travel, we look for home in far away places, constantly searching for our own version of paradise. The World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island is where many people end their search.
The Island sits in the Pacific Ocean, around two hours flight from Sydney Brisbane and offers the world’s southern-most coral reef. Its climate is described as “perpetual spring”.
Capella Lodge, on the Southern tip of Lord Howe, is a luxury nine-suite resort overlooking picturesque Lover’s Bay. Owned and managed by Baillie Lodges the destination last year received a $1.5 million refurbishment, including new suites designed by architect Justin Long.
In 2004 husband and wife team Hayley and James Baillie purchased the property – then called Capella South – on a romantic getaway of their own.
“We were struck by its remote beauty, the ‘lose-yourself’, laidback feel, the ever-changing horizons of reef and ocean,” James explains.
“We redesigned the lodge as Capella Lodge, the first in a collection of intimate lodges in unique destinations.”
The Lodge includes a full restaurant with fresh, simple food delivered by Executive Chef Phil Woolaston, with a view to match from the dining room, overlooking the Pacific and Lord Howe’s lush rugged mountains.
Justin Long has delivered two new premium suites – the Lidgbird Pavillion and Makambo Loft – both providing rich connections with the landscape with the highest quality finishes and interior design – echoing the relaxed island life.
Guests have the choice of a range of activities across the Island as well as the Capella Spa. As far as Island escapes go, it doesn’t come more relaxed than Lord Howe Island.
“The idea was to create a luxury Lodge from which a small number of guests would enjoy this island paradise,” James says. “’Barefoot luxury’, we like to call it.”
Capella Lodge
lordhowe.com