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.

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.

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.

The ultimate road trip begins and ends on NSW’s stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Whales, charming villages, fine wine and stunning natural vistas: there’s a lot to love about a road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales. Winding from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven before heading inland to the Southern Highlands, this scenic drive makes for an unforgettable road trip.

But like all great road trips, it’s not just about the drive but the stops made along the way. From incredible farm-to-plate (and grape-to-glass) dining options to unbeatable natural vistas and quaint towns with beautiful accommodation, there’s plenty to explore en route.

Where to eat

What is a road trip without incredible food? Whether you’re after fresh seafood, slow-cooked paddock-to-plate feasts or delicious wines, you’ll find something around every bend along Grand Pacific Drive.

Restaurant Santino is a local Wollongong secret we can’t keep quiet any longer. With a fresh take on Italian cuisine, servings are hearty and flavours are comforting. The chitarra with blue swimmer crab, garlic, chilli, parsley and crustacean oil is a crowd favourite.

Keep it local in Shellharbour with a menu all about fresh local produce at Relish on Addison . From South Coast oysters and blue swimmer crab linguine to crispy pork belly, surf and turf takes on an elevated meaning here.

Kiama’s neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, Little Betty’s , is just as good for a tasty share plate as it is for creative cocktails. The signature Grilled Octopus with burnt honey, garlic confit and sautéed Asian greens is worth a trip on its own.

Only the best will do in Shoalhaven, where multi-award-winning Bangalay Dining uses native Australian ingredients to bring its dishes to life. Start with the Smoked trout croquette before moving on to the sautéed potato gnocchi. Don’t forget the white chocolate mousse for dessert.

Meanwhile, the Southern Highlands are full of culinary highlights. From dining on incredibly fresh, local fare (we’re talking ingredients plucked from the team’s on-site kitchen garden or sourced through local producers) at Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima to creating gin blends at Millsheds Distillery .

bangalay dining shoalhaven — Taste native flavours at Bangalay Dining.

Exploring nature

Scenery is everything when hitting the road, and Grand Pacific Drive serves it up in spades. Drivers don’t even have to leave the car to enjoy the iconic ocean views from Seacliff Bridge (but several lookouts make it easy to stop).

Seaside Kiama boasts stunning beaches and famous blowholes. But travellers can also swap ocean for rainforest when taking the Minnamurra Rainforest walk, culminating in a picturesque waterfall. Or soar overhead at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures .

The scenic coastal drive along Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton. — Cruise along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Between May and November, 30,000 whales make their way passed the South Coast between May and November. Spot them from the coastal shores or join a whale-watching cruise from Shellharbour Marina or Jervis Bay. Dive in with Woebegone Freedive .

Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park is home to a traditional bush tucker and medicine walk with Aboriginal tour group, Gumaraa . Learn Indigenous healing practices and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and wisdom of the land’s Traditional Owners.

Wollongong is the perfect place for hikers, with the 6.5-kilometre Wodi Wodi track serving up views, settler history and a variety of landscapes in one loop. If you prefer, skip the walk and pull up at Bald Hill Lookout for expansive views south towards Wollongong (and a hang-glider or two).

For something truly unique, join the Highland Cow experience at The Swallow’s Nest in the Southern Highlands. In a brand-new offering, get a taste of farm life and help groom and feed these gorgeous creatures.

kiama coast walk people with dog — Wander the Kiama Coast Walk.

Unique experiences

No need to choose between an adrenaline rush or a culture fix, Grand Pacific Drive serves up both.

Soar into aviation history at Shellharbour’s HARS Aviation Museum . Tour the museum, then join a guided walk onto the wing of the record-breaking Qantas Boeing 747 and see the significant historic aircraft up close.

If ever there was a place to skydive, it’s in Wollongong. Dive from 15,000 feet (tandem, of course) with Sky Dive Wollongong and see the coastal beauty of this region from above.

Shoalhaven’s Bundanon Art Museum has to be one of the most unique offerings in the country. The legacy of artist Arthur Boyd and more than just a gallery, find eco-accommodation, fine dining, award-winning architecture and community here.

Kiama’s Crooked River Estate is about more than just delicious wine. Grab a picnic blanket and enjoy casual food and drinks with live music at Kick Back Fridays , every week.

Between June and August, the Southern Highlands’ Robertson attracts novice truffle hunters. Join the hunt at family-owned and operated Robertson Truffles (alternatively, you can order truffle treats online, if your sense of adventure isn’t up for it).

Freshly dug truffles at Terra Preta Truffles, Braidwood. — Discover hidden gems beneath the soil in the Southern Highlands. (Image: Destination NSW)

Where to stay

Road trips are the ultimate promotion for slow travel, encouraging visitors to take their time, enjoy the journey and stop along the way to really immerse themselves in local towns.

Find history and elegance at Berida Hotel in the Southern Highlands. Intimately set amongst gardens, but still close to the main street of Bowral, this 1920s private residence turned boutique hotel is the perfect stay.

Stay in one of Barranca’s private villas with views of rolling farmland overlooking the dramatic escarpment at Kangaroo Valley or be surrounded by native bushland (a short walk from the beach) in Jervis Bay.

Speaking of beachside escapes, Headlands Hotel Austinmer Beach delivers unrivalled access to Wollongong’s beaches. These serviced apartments enjoy coastal views from spacious balconies.

For something completely different again, check in at Cicada Luxury Camping . Stay in safari-style or large bell tents, each with a private fire pit and top-notch kitchen facilities. Outside, enjoy spectacular countryside views.

Discover more and plan your ultimate road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive and beyond at grandpacificdrive.com.au/grand.

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