Whilst I LOVE my job (we're talking, pinch-myself in love with it), we all need a break sometimes. Often, all it takes to find your most inspired self is to step away from the daily grind and immerse yourself in nature. What better place to do that than Byron Bay? Just an hour's flight from Sydney, you can head there for a long weekend (minus the jet-lag) and leave feeling like you've been on a tropical getaway.
Set on the most eastern tip of Australia, Byron Bay is famous for its pristine beaches and healthy lifestyle. The town was made popular by hippies and surfers in the 1970’s. Byron boasts a deep sense of spirituality, world class dining and adventure experiences, along with plenty of yoga.
To get the most of my relaxing weekend, I headed to The Byron at Byron - a beautiful resort just 15 minutes from the centre of town. Here's why you need to book a trip there, pronto:
1. THE SURROUNDS
Set in 46 acres of wild rainforest, and just a short stroll from the beautiful Tallow Beach, this resort is luxurious and serene. Wake up from your deluxe king-size and meander the boardwalks through the rainforest that contains 200 species of native plants, over 90 species of birds and a range of native wildlife. In a clearing through the trees you'll find the main buildings, architecturally designed built using natural materials.
2. THE FOOD
Head to breakfast where you will enjoy a huge range of fresh fruit, chia puddings, gluten free slices and muesli by Brookfarm. If savoury is more your thing, there's eggs of every variety, gluten free bread and roasted tomatoes on offer. The seasonal menu features 75% local ingredients sourced from within the region, including high quality produce from Tenterfield lamb, Eastern Tweed King Prawns, Coopers Shoot Tomatoes, Byron Bay Pork and handmade Bangalow Cheese.
For lunch, dine on the six metre wide verandahs overlooking the rainforest canopy, for an unforgettable culinary experience. The Restaurant practises Slow Food principles, sourcing produce from within the Northern Rivers region and working with local farmers.
Thursday evenings are a must, offering a meal centred around the best of the pick at the morning farmers market in the area.
3. THE HEALTH + WELLNESS ACTIVITIES
Every Thursday morning Head Chef Gavin Hughes treats guests to a complimentary tour of the Byron Bay Farmer’s Markets, offering the ultimate producer-to-plate experience. A must for any foodie!
Check out the fabulous Spa & Wellness Centre with a signature treatment menu that captures the spirit of nature. It includes six luxurious treatment rooms, spa, steam room, relaxation area and Vichy shower to re-energise and quieten the mind. I opted for a rainforest massage - set in the middle of sub-tropical trees. Listen to the birds as your muscles are treated to pure bliss.
Set your alarm for the free 75 min yoga classes at 8am. The teachers vary daily, so you can be sure there's a style you will resonate with.
Hire a bike from within the resort and take a trip to Lennox Head for views of the amazing coastline.
Want to break into a sweat? The report has an on-site gym for that, too. Winning.
PACKAGES
Boasting a plethora of tailored packages, The Byron at Byron is perfect for year-round holidays. Guests can choose from an array of packages including the Endless Love Romance Package, Gourmet Getaway Package for food lovers, Spa and Wellness Bliss for a wellness escape or Mother Earth, the increasingly popular baby-moon package. The Resort is also a favoured wedding and honeymoon destination.
The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
Address: 77-97 Broken Head Road, Byron Bay. NSW
Phone: 1300 554 362 or +61 2 6639 2000 (international)
Website: www.thebyronatbyron.com.au