In the lush expanse of the Northern Rivers, where verdant forests meet pristine beaches, lies a treasure trove of unconventional accommodations waiting to be explored. From lakes houses, glass houses, coastal glamour and mountainside perches, here are our picks for one-of-a-kind experiences that promises to delight the senses and dial up the cool factor.
Mesa Bus: Oasis in a Rainforest Wonderland
Can’t get any more cool or quirky than taking an escape in a literal bus – the Mesa Bus to be exact. A unique deluxe eco accommodation in the magical Byron hinterland village of Rosebank. Set amidst the rolling hills of Widjabul/Wyabal country, Mesa Bus offers an unforgettable stay with a difference. Designed to capture the breathtaking scenery of the ancient Bundjalung caldera, by day you can lose yourself in the subtropical wonderland of rainforest walks, freshwater swimming holes, magical waterfalls, and the vibrant village markets nearby, before returning to gather around the firepit by night, under an endless sky full of stars. The bus itself is kitted out with all the modern comforts, including a plush king-sized bed (plus four singles), freestanding bath with the most divine views, and an all-important coffee machine. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape or a family reconnection, Mesa Bus provides the perfect retreat.
Rosebank | mesabus.au
Halcyon House: Eclectic Glamour
There’s a delicious slice of Palm Springs on the Tweed Coast that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped onto a movie set - Halcyon House - the award-winning boutique hotel that took the coast by storm with its spectacular revamp, from beachside motel to coveted ‘it’ place to stay, in 2015. With its breathtaking beachfront location, Halcyon House offers a luxurious haven of relaxation - where you can spend your days poolside, sipping cocktails and dining at the Hatted restaurant Paper Daisy – that will leave you feeling superstar glamourous. But the real magic? Each guest room and suite is a stand-alone, all individually created by interior designer Anna Spiro, reflecting her masterful signature style. The whole hotel in fact, is a visual delight - from the eclectic mix of artwork and the recurring themes of blue and brass fittings (note, even the books are in shades of blue) – but it’s the rooms where Spiro went to town in an exuberant clash of patterns of the vibrant wallpapers, padded headboards and vintage furnishings. Spiro had a vision of creating an aesthetic of ‘uncomplicated luxury’, which she pulled off by upholstering all 21 guest rooms in ornate fabrics - all of which, including the upholsterers, came from England (Spiro imported a team of specialists to work on the rooms). None of it should work but it all does, and with a flair that has marked Halcyon House as one of Australia’s standout boutique stays.
Cabarita Beach | halcyonhouse.com.au
Avion Retreat: Serene Glasshouse Views
How about a glasshouse stay for something different? Set on 150 magnificent acres in beautiful Northern NSW, is architecturally designed Avion Retreat. Consisting of two, five star, fully off grid, sustainable glasshouses offering picturesque mountain vistas in an exclusive setting. Each private glasshouse is uniquely designed to capture 360-degree views of the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding area, and features a king size bed, luxury bathroom with rain shower and outdoor stone bath. There’s also a fireplace for keeping things cosy, a large outdoor deck, equipped with Queen size daybed and outdoor dining table, as well as the exclusive use of a golf cart for exploring the lush landscape. Guests can also enjoy local farm-to-table produce from the surrounding area, as well as a complimentary breakfast basket, carefully selected to make your stay memorable.
Pumpenbil | avionretreat.com.au
Blackbird: Sustainable Luxury Spectacular Views
Perched on the side of Mount Koonyum, just behind the town of Mullumbimby, sits an expansive hinterland retreat known as Blackbird. Consisting of three architecturally designed and awarded pavilions (featured in Tatler magazines 2020 travel guide as one of the ‘Top 101 Hotels in the World’) purpose-built to capture the breathtaking views of Cape Byron and the Pacific Ocean. Designed with innovation and sustainability in mind, each self-contained pavilion blends seamlessly into the landscape, offering an escape from urban living without compromising on comfort. Locally owned and operated, Blackbird offers a tailored experience to each guest – from a massage with an experienced therapist in the privacy of your own pavilion, to chef curated meals. Start your day with a delicious breakfast of fresh local produce, then unwind in the magnesium mineral pool or infrared sauna. As evening falls, sip on a drink by the crackling fire and marvel at the panoramic views under the night sky. With its premium-grade accommodations and luxurious eco-friendly amenities, Blackbird promises a quiet, private, and unique retreat like no other.
Mullumbimby Creek | blackbirdbyron.com.au
Frog Hollow Lake House B&B: Private Lakehouse Retreat
Boutique accommodation over a private lake? Yes please. Named for the diverse variety of frogs in and around the lake, Frog Hollow Lake House B&B offers a rejuvenating and unforgettable escape like no other. Built on the lake’s edge (the deck sits over the water) with local materials and sustainability in mind, the lake house sits seamlessly into the natural environment, taking advantage of the stunning views across the water and through to the mountains. Reflecting a love of nature and a passion for providing the ultimate relaxation experience, guests will wake up to the sound of birdsong and be greeted by resident wallabies. With lush amenities – from the wood panelled surrounds of the king bedroom (with toasty fireplace for crisp winter nights) and fully functional outdoor kitchen, to the hot jacuzzi overlooking the lake – and exclusive access to the lake and gorgeous boatshed, it’s not difficult to unwind whilst being fully immersed in the natural beauty of the surroundings. For dialling up the relaxation, there’s also the option of booking a private massage or yoga session on the deck. The serenity starts, now.
Lilian Rock | froghollowlakehouse.com.au
Swell Hotel Byron: Coastal Charm Meets the Free-Spirited 70s
Step into the heart of Byron Bay and experience the bohemian pleasures of Swell Hotel, a boutique escape where every detail reflects the vibrant art scene and pristine beaches of the area. Set amidst tropical gardens, Swell Hotel offers a luxurious, grounding and free-spirited adventure that blends coastal charm with 70s-inspired aesthetics. Think rich materials, intricate patterns and bold accents to create dreamy spaces that invite relaxation and exploration. As well as luxe amenities, like five-star king beds and plush seating areas, guests are welcomed to enjoy complimentary access to the cedar sauna and ice bath, nestled in a private space behind the pool. Whether you're recharging inside or lapping up the elements outside, Swell Hotel promises a unique coastal experience that captivates the senses.
Byron Bay | swellhotel.com
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