Spicers Sangoma Retreat

Located at the top of the ancient Grand Canyon, Chalets at Blackheath comprises four freestanding chalets discreetly spread out through the expansive resort grounds.

Immerse yourself in luxury surrounded by lush rainforest at this resort and spa, just a short distance from Byron town.

Each of the 91 suites is beautifully styled, luxurious and comfortable. Wake in the morning to the sounds of the forest canopy, hear the birds calling to each other, and smell the fresh ocean air.

At the restaurant, you can explore the seasonal menus which are based on a farm-to-plate philosophy, and pair your meals with a wide selection of local and international wines. All of this while gazing out at the verdant forest.

Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment or two at the multi-award winning day spa, join in a yoga class or take a guided walk through the rainforest with the resort’s ranger and learn about the area’s history and unique ecosystem. Or simply unwind at the pool with one of the resort’s signature cocktails.

It’s not surprising that the idea for this luxury tented bush camp was first dreamt up over sundowners on safari in Africa a few decades ago. Close to the clear waters and bright sand of Jervis Bay’s beaches, the camp offers guests the best in canvas accommodation surrounded by a nature-lover’s paradise.

The 12 canvas tents are positioned carefully above ground, between the eucalypts and paperbarks. Each one offers not only privacy, but also wrap-around decking, full insect screening, solar lighting and luxurious linen. Private open-air bathrooms mean you can watch the birds and spot kangaroos while in the shower.

Enjoy your meals in the treetops in the fresh sea air at The Gunyah. The name is aboriginal for “meeting place” and it’s where you’ll find your fellow guests relaxing and regaling one another with tales of their day’s exploring. In the warmer weather, dine out on the verandah and watch the possums, sugar gliders and birds in the surrounding bush. And when it gets colder snuggle up in front of a fire with an evening drink.

Ideally located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, surrounded by vineyards and an 18-hole championship golf course is the Crowne Plaza hotel.

There are 414 spacious rooms and suites including a handful of self-contained two- and three-bedroom villas, ideal for families and small groups. Rooms are bright and contemporay, some featuring their own private balcony or courtyard and most coming with views over the golf course or vineyards.

The Hunter Valley is famous for its food and wine and guests won’t be disappointed with the gourmet offerings here. Redsalt Restaurant is famous for its grills and an open kitchen means you can see the chefs at work, using fresh, local produce to create mouthwatering contemporary dishes. The laidback Lovedale Restaurant and Bar has its own brewery next door and guests can sample several craft beers, brewed on-site. You can also choose to dine in the comfort of your own room.

UBIKA Spa takes its name from the Sanskrit word ‘to grow’ and offers a range or relaxing and rejuventating treatments.