Easily two of Australia’s most well-known and beloved residents, Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky are true Byron Bay royalty (seriously, can’t we just make them both the mayor already?). Daydreaming of discovering this blissfully laid-back locale in glamorous style? Do Byron as we imagine the Hemsworths do and check out these spots for a loved-up weekend away or short break…
Where to… sleep in
The Villas of Byron
If you’re dreaming of an exotic retreat, The Villas of Byron is paradise found. Like something you’d see on Beyoncé’s Insta page, the property’s exclusive, gorgeous villas are perfect for couples seeking seclusion and utter luxury.
Where to… have breakfast
Three Blue Ducks
The acclaimed Three Blue Ducks is a trendy hangout with a breakfast menu you’ll definitely want to check out. Think rustic favourites, quality forest-friendly coffee and the best chai this side of India.
Where to… get your morning coffee
The Roadhouse
Open for breakfast through to late-night drinks, The Roadhouse is perfect for a morning coffee and a healthy treat. Serving up goodies like organic, raw chocolate, raspberry and pistachio layer cake, and chai with cold-pressed ginger and turmeric, this little gem is one for the must-visit list.
Related: Top Things To Do in Byron Bay
Where to… have a long lunch
Harvest
Chris’s gorgeous Spanish wife, Elsa, is apparently particularly fond of this award-winning spot in the historic town of Newrybar. Visit for a lazy lunch and be sure to pick up a loaf of freshly baked organic sourdough, straight from the century-year-old wooden oven on site.
Where to… have sundowners
Balcony Bar & Oyster Co.
As the name suggests, Balcony sits one floor up, overlooking buzzy Byron and just metres from Main Beach. Pull up a stool by the water and order yourself a Chilli Coconut Cocktail – chilli-infused dark rum and coconut rum served in a whole coconut.
Where to… have a romantic dinner
Rae’s on Wategos
Located right on famous Wategos Beach, Rae’s is an exclusive boutique retreat with a seriously good restaurant. Don’t miss the seafood degustation experience, with Moreton Bay bug ravioli, and seared scallops with braised pork belly.
Where to… have a treatment for two
Gaia Retreat and Spa
When it comes to feeling like an A-lister, you really can’t beat a treatment inspired by one of history’s most glamorous queens. Introducing the Hinterland Adventure package for two at Olivia Newton-John’s award- winning Gaia Retreat and Spa. It features a hydrating cocoa butter full-body massage, regenerating scalp massage, full-body Indonesian-inspired exfoliation and a Cleopatra milk bath – an OTT indulgence worthy of any celeb.
Where to… work out
Dolphin Kayak Tour
Get your heart racing – and get up-close and personal with dolphins and even whales (usually between May and October) – on an exciting Dolphin Kayak Tour with Byron Bay Adventure Tours.
Don’t miss…
Stone & Wood Tasting Tour and Bangalow Market
Taking over the Australian craft beer world, Stone & Wood calls Byron Bay home, and often throws open its doors for brewery tours and tasting-room experiences. Before you go, make like Chris and Elsa and visit the Bangalow Market for some souvenirs… and maybe some cheeky celeb-spotting (if you’re not signing autographs yourself).
Instagram it…
Mt Warning Summit
Of course the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse is an obvious selfie spot with its spectacular vistas, but climbing up to the Mt Warning Summit for a beautiful sunrise shot is something you won’t regret. #unforgettable. Helpful links:
Stay:The Villas of Byron
Play: Gaia Retreat and Spa // Byron Bay Adventure Tours // Stone & Wood Brewing Company // Bangalow Market
Eat:Three Blue Ducks // The Roadhouse // Harvest // Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. // Rae’s on Wategos
Thinking of a romantic short break in NSW? Find the perfect place to stay here…
Image credits: Destination NSW, Kirra Pendergast and www.visitnsw.com/
