Lord Howe is a sub-tropical ‘treasure island’ lost in time, a natural sanctuary of rugged volcanic peaksand basalt outcrops, hidden valleys awash with rare plants in shades of emerald, cloud forests,opalescent sands and serene turquoise lagoons. The island is encircled by the world’s southern-most coral reef, which provides home to a kaleidoscopeof abundant coral and fish. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1982 as a placeof rare and unique beauty, rich in natural heritage. A limited few enjoy this island paradise; only four hundred guests at a time are permitted on the islandwith the aim to preserve this precious natural treasure.
Celebrated as the pinnacle of luxury on Lord Howe, Capella Lodge rests atop romantic Lovers Bay, andat the foot of the imperious mountain twins rising dramatically above, Mts Gower and Lidgbird.Spectacular views of the ocean, reef and mountains are welcomed into the Lodge. Contemporaryarchitectural design presents generous indoor-outdoor lounging areas and floor to ceiling glass thatopens beneath a dramatic skillion roof reaching to the peaks beyond.
A feeling of relaxed sophistication flows throughout the Lodge as recycled wooden floors, beach-house chic furnishings and Lord Howe style custom fabrics complement the convivial ambience of Capella’s bar, lounges and restaurant. Luxurious surrounds, exceptional island-inspired dining and unforgettable ‘first-name’ service combine to create an outstanding lodging experience. Capella Lodge sets world-class standards of exclusive luxury on Lord Howe.
Rising from the Tasman Sea just 700km northeast of Sydney, the tiny, breathtakingly beautiful Lord Howe Island is just 11km long and 2.8km at widest. Around 300 people are lucky enough to call the Island home and visitor numbers are restricted to 400 at any one time to preserve Lord Howe’s precious natural environment.
Qantaslink is the exclusive carrier to Lord Howe Island, flying 32-seat Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft most days from Sydney. Weekend flights depart from Brisbane, and a seasonal service operates from Port Macquarie. Flights are an easy 1hr 50 min, and provide a spectacular aerial welcome to the island.
Capella has an intimate nine contemporary island-style suites designed to complement Lord Howe’s pristine natural environment and provide a luxurious, serene refuge. Inspired by the carefree spirit of the authentic Australian beach house, this is barefoot luxury at its best.
Stay in the open, single level Capella Suite, the dual level Lagoon and Makambo Lofts with show-stopping views from the upper level, or in the ultimate Lidgbird Pavilion with wrap-around Lord Howe views and private plunge pool.
Spacious, light-filled interiors feature lavishly appointed king beds, bespoke furnishings and commissioned artworks that create a sense of relaxed, understated luxury. Refresh in chic basalt stone ensuite bathrooms. Generous private decks take in views of ocean and mountains under the sway of Lord Howe’s endemic Kentia palms and welcome the outside in.
Capella Lodge holds a far-reaching reputation as Lord Howe’s knock-out dining destination. A regional approach to cuisine ensures the finest and freshest produce from Lord Howe Island and New South Wales is showcased in every inspired menu. Capella’s contemporary Pacific-themed menu features superb quality ingredients; the menu changes daily with the seasons, providing a constant source of delight to guests.
The light and airy, beach-house styled Restaurant and Bar command spectacular views of the lagoon and mountains, providing a dramatic backdrop for all dining. The Restaurant has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere; it’s a perfect place to chat with each other, with Lodge staff and other guests, to plan the day ahead or relive a day spent exploring or relaxing on Lord Howe.
Rates at Capella include gourmet breakfast, sunset drinks and canapes, three course dinner with selected wines and all non-alcoholic beverages. Lunch is available in the Restaurant or as a picnic or BBQ to enjoy on a walk or paddle on the lagoon. The Capella team of chefs are happy to accommodate specific dietary requirements; as a remote destination it’s important to advise these before arriving to stay. Any favourite items are best brought along.
Spa
Swimming Pool
Lounge – includes a book, magazine and DVD library, games and luxe lounge chairs with views to the mountains and the ocean
An abundance of rare birds, plants and marine life combine to make Lord Howe Island a remarkable destination. With Capella as a luxe base camp, take to rainforest walking tracks and explore remote rocky coves alive with magnificent birdlife or valleys brimming with ancient plants. Climb to the summit of Mt Gower, rated as one of the world’s best day walks or comb for shells on pristine white-sanded beaches.
The clear, warm Lord Howe waters are ablaze with colour. Soft and hard corals, sea turtles and a riot of fish inhabit intriguing submarine cities sheltered within the reef. Kingfish, tuna and marlin cruise beyond. Take nothing but fins and snorkel or glass-bottomed boat, or dive deeper to explore the underwater world.
