Review: Bells at Killcare, Central Coast

This boutique hotel on the Bouddi Peninsula with its own award-winning restaurant and recently added luxury lodges is the perfect retreat.

Bells at Killcare on the NSW Bouddi Peninsula is a world-class retreat with dreamy rooms, luxury lodges, a day spa, bakery, vibrant restaurant and hectares of tranquil gardens. Owned by husband-and-wife team Karina and Brian Barry, who bought the stylish retreat from Australian entrepreneur John Singleton in 2017, Bells at Killcare offers all the charm and sophistication you want from a five-star coastal break.

The addition of The Lodges at Bells at Killcare in 2023 upped the ante further with four luxurious tri-level lodges offering an elevated stay on par with nearby sister property and Luxury Lodge of Australia, Pretty Beach House.

The location

a group of friends exploring the Bouddi Coastal Walk, Central Coast — The Central Coast is home to the scenic Bouddi Coastal Walk.

The Central Coast, just an hour’s drive north of Sydney, has evolved to become an incredibly accessible and beautiful seaside destination where some seriously sophisticated retreats, luxury places to stay and vibrant dining options have sprung up over the years.

The Bouddi Peninsula is located at the southern tip of the Central Coast, across from Sydney’s northernmost suburb, Palm Beach, and is dotted with high-end holiday destinations such as Macmasters Beach, Pretty Beach, Patonga and Killcare.

Bells at Killcare — Lodges feature a heated magnesium pool, two outdoor double day beds and a dining area.

This is the spiritual heart of the Central Coast – Bouddi means heart in local Aboriginal languages – and there is evidence of rock carvings and middens found in numerous locations around the area’s idyllic national parks.

Pack walking shoes and swimmers as, all up, there are seven pristine beaches and many spectacular walking trails that wind around the coastal headland at Killcare. You can also take the scenic route and visit the sleepy, picturesque seaside villages of Pretty Beach, Hardys Bay and Killcare itself, where Bells isn’t. (It’s located up the hill at Killcare Heights.)

The accommodation

The Bells at Killcare bedroom interiors in Central Coast, NSW, Australia — Cottages and suites have an easy-breezy Hamptons aesthetic. (Image: Dom Cherry)

Bells at Killcare boutique hotel comprises a series of suites and cottages set in landscaped gardens. Kitted out with Ralph Lauren furnishings in a palette of beachy blue and white with signature striped awnings, they embody a coastal-chic Hamptons aesthetic that will have you in holiday mode from the moment you check in.

Deluxe two-storey cottages, one-bedroom cottages, lakeview villas, garden villas and king suites are designed for two people, while the two-bedroom cottages are perfect for families and groups of four.

Four tri-level, two-bedroom luxury lodges in a separate bushland setting on site are the latest addition to Bells at Killcare’s variety of accommodation options.

The Lodges

the pool deck at Bells at Killcare — Spend your days relaxing at your own private pool when you check into a lodge.

In 2023, Bells at Killcare added another feather to its cap with the addition of four luxurious, architecturally-designed lodges. The design departs from the rest of the property’s Hamptons aesthetic and tunes into the local environment instead with natural tones, textures and design details that reflect the surrounding coastal angophora canopy.

Each lodge is split over three levels.

On the ground floor, two bedrooms each with its own en suite and balcony are rendered in a calming palette of stone and foliage tones.

Bathrooms boast underfloor heating, rain shower and a free-standing tub as well as access to your lodge’s private magnesium pool, complete with day beds and barbecue area.

The second level opens up to a generous open-plan dining and living area, with fully equipped kitchen and comfortable lounge area with a fireplace for the cooler months, large-screen TV and sliding doors that lead to a wraparound terrace.

two women hanging out at the sunset deck of Bells at Killcare — Soak up the view from the sunset deck – the centrepiece of each lodge.

The pièce de résistance of each lodge is a third-level Sunset Deck that lets you drink in views over Pittwater, Palm Beach and the Hawkesbury River. Best served with pre-dinner snacks and a sundowner of your choice delivered daily to the lodge.

Thoughtful touches abound in the lodges: from the well-stocked bar and pantry full of local goodies to the fresh-baked bread and choice of newspaper left in a basket by your front door every morning.

The Lodges are fully serviced, and all-inclusive packages can include concierge service and nightly turndown, breakfast and dinner at The Wild Flower Bar & Dining (see below), two-course lunch or barbecue pack delivered to your door or an explorer’s backpack lunch for days you’re exploring Bouddi National Park, and local transfers to the beach and walking trails.

All delivered with laid-back, friendly professionalism by staff passionate about showing off this beautiful pocket of NSW.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

The food

THE POOL BAR

Bells at Killcare has a garden bar and poolside service so that you can enjoy a cocktail and oysters al fresco as well as an honesty bar tucked into a dinky 1950s caravan where guests can pour their own drinks.

The relaxed pool area, tucked into a private corner of the property, also follows the Hamptons theme, with blue-and-white umbrellas and lounges.

ONSITE BAKERY

Freshly baked croissants available at Bells Bakery in Central Coast, NSW, Australia — Bells Bakery produces freshly baked pastries and artisan sourdough daily. (Image: Dom Cherry)

There’s also a beautiful bakery and larder onsite, which turns out freshly baked pastries and artisan sourdough and offers both guests and locals the chance to pick up picnic goodies to take away or back to their cottage or lodge.

THE WILD FLOWER BAR & DINING

The Wild Flower Bar and Dining Restaurant at Bells at Killcare in Central Coast, NSW, Australia — The Wild Flower Bar & Dining is inspired by the theme: Bouddi by the Sea. (Image: Dom Cherry)

The onsite restaurant, The Wild Flower Bar & Dining, has been shaped by culinary director Cameron Cansdell. Menus are guided by the idea of ‘food of the sun’ – from the Med to Morocco – and harness produce from the property’s own kitchen gardens, chooks and beehives as well as from local NSW suppliers and growers.

The restaurant interiors commissioned Kate Swinton wallpaper and cushions and framed etchings of native flora. The light fittings that feature so prominently in the dining room are also woven from local Killcare grasses by local artist Lee Cavendar.

The main dining room here is on the balcony, which overlooks the beautiful, manicured grounds and, thanks to floor-to-ceiling louvres, has an al fresco feel.

The wine list is also extensive with a globe-trotting mix of international – particularly Italian – and local wines.

The day spa

a woman relaxing at the Bells Day Spa — Rejuvenate both your body and mind at the Bells Day Spa. (Image: Dom Cherry)

Another drawcard at Bells at Killcare is Bells Day Spa, a stylish sanctuary that is anchored to the garden and thoughtfully designed with warmth and intimacy in mind.

The day spa is hugely popular for its botanical iKOU products, which are used in treatments such as the Mindful Wellness Ritual, which involves both a massage and a facial.

Its bespoke beauty and bathroom products are hand-made exclusively for Bells at Killcare and include a beautiful high-end signature candle (in collaboration with Lumira), Botanical Shampoo & Conditioner, hand wash and hand lotion, which are all available for purchase.

The beach is not far away, and there’s magnificent hiking around the Bouddi National Park. That’s if you can bear to tear yourself away.

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Does Bells at Killcare have access for guests with disabilities?

The Garden Suite has ramp access and a rail and seat in the shower.

Is Bells at Killcare family-friendly?

Bells at Killcare makes an ideal family break. Children over 13 can be accommodated in any room type across the property. Children under 13 are welcome in the lodges and in the two-bedroom cottages.

Details

the outdoor lounge at Bells at Killcare — Escape to this scenic hideaway on the Central Coast.

Best for: Couples, families and groups looking for a luxe coastal getaway close to Sydney with all the bells and whistles.

Address: 107 The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights

Cost: All-inclusive packages at The Lodges start from $750 per person per night for four guests and $1200 per person per night for two guests (minimum two-night stay). Children under 13 stay free of charge.

Or opt for the Bed & Breakfast Package, at $2000 per night for four people.

Guests checking into The Lodges during the cooler months can take advantage of a Winter Stay3Pay2 offer: stay three nights in June, July or August for $4000 for a family of four, including daily gourmet breakfast, delivered drinks and canapés to lodge each afternoon and VIP nightly turndown. Perfect for July school holidays.

Rates for cottages and suites start at $527 per night for two people, including gourmet breakfast.

Need more inspiration? Discover the best things to see and do on the Central Coast.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe.

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca, which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie, the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach. Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen, which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse.

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach, where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne, Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s.

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

Everything you want from a 5-star coastal break at Killcare

This boutique hotel on the Bouddi Peninsula with its own award-winning restaurant and recently added luxury lodges is the perfect retreat.

The location

The accommodation

The Lodges