Byron Bay Plantation review, New South Wales: Weekend away

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This was published 9 years ago

Byron Bay Plantation review, New South Wales: Weekend away

Byron Bay's environs and food markets coupled with a restful, elegant retreat from the crowd offer a holiday that's sure to recharge your batteries, writes Justine Costigan.

By Justine Costigan
Picture perfect: For a break with family and friends, the stunning location and facilities at the Plantation are hard to beat.

Picture perfect: For a break with family and friends, the stunning location and facilities at the Plantation are hard to beat.Credit: Byron Bay Plantation

Justine Costigan enjoys the ocean views at Byron Bay Plantation.

THE SETTING

The lush rolling hills of the Byron Bay hinterland is the setting for Byron Bay Plantation, and its views stretch across 100 acres of grazing land all the way to the ocean. Built in classic Queenslander style in 2006, the main house takes full advantage of the stunning views with a wide wrap-around verandah that lets you to take in the scenery from every angle. There's no better place to sip a tall gin and tonic as the sun sets.

Spread out: The expansive living areas at the Plantation make the most of the fabulous views.

Spread out: The expansive living areas at the Plantation make the most of the fabulous views.Credit: Byron Bay Plantation

THE SPACE

The house has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, all located at the rear so that the huge living area, which stretches the width of the house, can take advantage of the view. French doors offer access to the verandah, which has outdoor seating, a barbecue and dining area and lots of private spots to read and relax. Underneath the elevated house is parking for four cars and a laundry. The swimming pool is a short walk from the house and is a resort-sized 17 metres,with lounge chairs and shelter from the sun. A working farm, the Plantation grazes 35 cattle, has some horses, some very happy chooks and a huge vegetable garden. A creek runs through the property and there are also areas of regenerated rainforest, so there's plenty to explore. The farmhands will happily take you to meet and feed the horses.

COMFORT

The swimming pool is a short walk from the house and is a resort-sized 17 metres, with lounge chairs and shelter from the sun.

Super-comfortable beds, high-quality pillows and quilts, 1000 thread-count bed linen, plush towels, large sofas to sink into, ceiling fans in every bedroom, a pot-bellied stove,a well-stocked kitchen and that elegant pool mean every possible comfort is taken care of.

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THE KIT

The architecture may be classic but the interior is all contemporary. There's no country kitsch here, instead find artworks, antiques, polished floorboards and high-quality furniture. It's stylish without being precious, so families with children will be just as at home as couples. Each bedroom can be configured with two single beds or one king-sized bed.

Design classic: The exterior of the Plantation is in the Queensland style, with sweeping verandahs.

Design classic: The exterior of the Plantation is in the Queensland style, with sweeping verandahs.Credit: Byron Bay Plantation

The kitchen has all the basics for cooking including appliances, serving dishes and a pantry stocked with everything you'll need, from olive oil to rice, flour and pasta. Free Wi-Fi, a Bose bluetooth sound system and digital TV mean you can be as connected to the outside world as you wish.

THE FOOD

As well as pantry staples, you'll find fresh milk, locally-made organic bread, local jams, coffee for the espresso machine and a bottle of champagne on arrival. The house is all set up for cooking, but it's hard to resist a trip to nearby villages Newrybar and Bangalow. A trip to Newrybar's Harvest Cafe with its onsite bakery and produce store is a must.

In Bangalow, the dining room of The Bangalow Hotel is a great place for dinner or drop into acclaimed chef Katrina Kanetani's Town Restaurant and Cafe for a coffee – also open for dinner from Thursday to Saturday. The Bangalow Farmer's Market is held every Saturday in the car park of the pub and is the place to buy seasonal organic fruit and vegetables, local meat and cheese, and to meet the locals. Also keep an eye out for local macadamias, mangoes and avocados sold by farmers direct from roadside stalls.

WORTH STEPPING OUT FOR

Broken Head beach is the closest beach to the Plantation and is a picturesque, winding, 10-minute drive through farmland and forest. Another five minutes along the coast will take you into Byron Bay where you can explore more glorious beaches, take the lighthouse walk (spectacular at dawn) or wander through town.

THE VERDICT

Just heaven. The sheer natural beauty of Byron Bay Plantation's location combined with really stylish and comfortable accommodation makes this an ideal place for a rejuvenating break with friends or family.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are regular flights from major cities to Coolangatta or Ballina with bus, hire car or taxi options at both airports. Byron Bay Plantation is at 76 Phillips Road, Newrybar, 15 kilometres from Byron Bay. Phillips Road runs off Broken Head Road.

ESSENTIALS

Prices start at $650 a night for the whole house (maximum eight guests) with a three-night minimum stay. It is popular for wedding parties and the owners can help with recommendations for local suppliers. Phone 0402 930 467; see byronplantation.com.au.

The writer was a guest of Byron Bay Plantation.

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