Activities, hotels, lodges and restaurants on romantic Lord Howe Island, Australia.
Why visit Lord Howe Island?
Lord Howe is Australia’s best kept secret. Just under two hours north-east of Sydney by plane, it sits on its own in the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by a shimmering lagoon.
Part of the charm is the limit on the amount of people that can be there at any one time. Only 350 people live there, while there’s a maximum of 400 tourists that can visit at once.
This keeps it ultra-peaceful – people get around on bikes and in golf buggies – and thoroughly relaxed. There’s also no mobile phone coverage, so it’s possible to completely get away from it all.
Activities on Lord Howe Island, Australia
Most visitors are content to go swimming in the lagoon, but those wanting some properly strenuous activity outside of the bedroom can do some serious walking. At the end of the island, Mt Gower sticks out like a big green nose, and the climb up to the top of it and back takes the best part of a day. It’s hard work, but seriously rewarding: the views of the island from the top are out of this world. Guides can be booked with Lord Howe Island Environmental Tours.
Nature and wildlife on Lord Howe Island
Part of Lord Howe’s romantic attraction is its wildlife. The range of unique species that can be found there has led to the island being called Australia’s Galapagos. To find out about the island’s geology and nature, take a trip with Marine Adventures. The cruise involves snorkelling, watching turtles and rays through a glass bottomed boat, and getting up close to the thousands of birds that nest near the beach.
Where to stay on Lord Howe Island
The true romance happens in the hotel room, of course, and for that, Capella Lodge is without equal. It’s an establishment that manages to be upmarket without the attitude – the staff are ultra-friendly and helpful.
The rooms are perfect for cuddling up in too – they’re on a split level with a lounge downstairs and bed upstairs with a balcony overlooking Mt Gower and the lagoon. Perfect for snuggling up in and watching the palm trees blow in the wind… or something else.
Where to eat on Lord Howe Island
Most accommodation on the island works on a package basis, and the meals at Capella are truly world class. There’s an Asian influence, but it’s something different and expertly done every night, matched with top wines from Australia and New Zealand.
Copyright David Whitley
