Eco-Romance©. It’s a ‘thing’. I know because I thought of it just a few days ago. It’s the ultimate mix of luxury with an environmental conscience. Think of it as couple’s therapy without all the talking. It is also the most accurate way to describe the world-class beachfront Elements of Byron at Byron Bay.
First the eco bit …
Since the first moment respect for the environment has been paramount at Elements with more than 570 mature trees within the resort and foreshore retained. Native vegetation was supplemented with 65,000 indigenous plants, trees and grasses.
The resort conforms to the existing ponds and lake allowing the fauna to move within the landscape with minimal impact. Working with the environment rather than against it has ensured energy and water consumption are minimised.
Elements of Byron combines four unique ecologies: rainforest, dunal, wetland and eucalypt and is home to varied wildlife from wallabies and black cockatoos to endangered shorebirds. Stand still near the ponds and watch fish jump between the native purple water lilies. Complimentary guided walks allow guests to sample bush tucker and get up close with some of the local fauna.
And soon a world-first, solar train will connect Elements of Byron, Sunrise Beach and Byron Arts Estate with the Byron town centre. Open to the public, the converted train will help reduce the current gridlock often experienced on the Ewingsdale Rd approach to Byron Bay.
The fresh, tea tree stained water of Belongil Creek meets 2km of beachfront just near the private lounging area a minute from our Dunal Villa. The outlook is stunning sunny or grey. Here the Heart of the Bay cradles these beachside villas.
…and don’t forget the Romance
94 villas are currently dotted about the property with an exterior design reminiscent of the quintessential Aussie beach shack – simple and practical. The interior décor and colour scheme of the accommodation is dictated by the location: Dunal, Botanica or Lagoon.
Blond timber, a gas fireplace and cow hide rug merges with cool tones and driftwood as you open the electronic sliding door. Up a few stairs and a sea spray teal backlit bed head provides the sleeping space colour and tone. It’s well appointed and stylish.
The spacious ensuite with heated floor and separate toilet and bath deck/suite/room are as nearly as big as the bed and living space.
More about the separate ‘Bath Room’: a large, deep and impressive freestanding bath built for two sits splendidly with only a small wooden stool and more driftwood shelving for company. This is where TML’s fave Aussie Appelles toiletries come in. The B5 Bath Caviar dissolves for a blissful, bubble-free soak.
The minibar has a selection of luxe faves and local craft treats like Brookies Gin and Byron Bay Cookie Co. cookies. You can ‘control’ your room via the bedside tablet. There are two 42” flatscreens and desk if that’s your thing.
Cue the birdsong and soothing sounds of the ocean and faint hint of eucalypts to ensure instant relaxation. Forget the pina coladas; it’s all about long romantic walks on an endless stretch of pristine, white, powder soft sand. Then crack a bottle of bubbly and turn down the lights.
Executive Chef Simon Jones has designed menus for Graze Restaurant to complement the resort’s relaxed vibe. With so much exceptional produce close to hand the food reflects not only the region and seasons but also a commitment to sustainability.
Classically trained under Raymond Blanc, Simon later ran the kitchen of London’s acclaimed L’Escargot when it was co-owned by Marco Pierre White. He is relishing the Stage 2 development that brings a 500m2 market garden that will harvest rainwater and add an extra dimension to the food offering.
A very fine buffet breakfast with countless options is included but if you’ve been walking since before dawn the staggering Farmhouse with eggs to your liking, a little pot of Boston baked beans, sausage and much more is just the ticket. The yummy zucchini and sweet corn fritters are a gluten free/vegetarian delight served with local mixed leaf, half an avocado and if you want to blow the whole vego thing order a side of smoky bacon.
The enormous, turquoise infinity pool beckons with lots of romantic, corners in cabanas and an adults-only area with cantilevered, cushioned daybeds built for two.
At Elements of Byron your every whim has been taken care of before you even think of it. From seamless check-in to simple checkout it is all relaxed. Your only drama is trying to work out why you didn’t stay longer.
http://www.elementsofbyron.com.au/en/
* 99 two-bedroom eco homes with outdoor bathrooms and decks with fireplaces as well as a 25m adults only heated pool with swim up bar are due for completion in October, 2017.
ThisMagnificentLife were guests of Elements of Byron
