Escape to a luxury bayside retreat in Port Stephens

Whether you’re seeking exploration, adventure, pampering or the perfect hideaway, it’s time to set sail to your very own utopia.

When the universe lands too much on your plate, even the normally joyful act of choosing a holiday destination can weigh you down. If only there was one place you needn’t think twice about. A year-round, protected paradise where worries are left at the door, service is intuitive and your every whim is swiftly and discreetly catered to. Well, get ready – whether you’re seeking exploration, adventure, pampering or the perfect hideaway, it’s time to set sail to your very own utopia. Secret passcode: The Anchorage Port Stephens .

The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — The Anchorage Port Stephens is a year-round, protected paradise where worries are left at the door.

The quiet approach

Turning east off the highway just two hours’ drive from Sydney, time starts to wind backwards. For the next 45 minutes, streetscapes featuring ’80s-built homes with freshly mown lawns and concrete pelicans gradually melt away into laneways lined with rustic beach shacks, palm trees and lush parkland expanses. You catch a glimpse of talc white sand and pale turquoise ripples through a veil of scrub and wonder how on earth this stunning stretch of land has existed for so long known as Port Stephens, so close to home, without your knowledge – and you do a little happy dance in your seat because developers don’t appear to have received the memo either. Slowly edging towards the seaside village of Nelson Bay, at a fingertip of jutting land you exit, stage left, passing Corlette Point Park’s brilliant patch of green that fronts an incredibly pristine beach. Your gaze comes to rest on a sign that reads ‘Resort Guests Only’. You’ve arrived at a luxury haven by the sea.

Yacht sailing in the sea, The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — You’ve arrived at a luxury haven by the sea.

Checking in to check out

A glass of sparkling wine is placed in your hand as you drift into the stunning Hamptons dressed lounge area for the check in experience, the perfect indicator of what lies ahead. Plump sofas and oversized cocoon chairs in beige, cream, caramel and indigo offer plenty of soft landings, poised to soak up the natural light which floods the hexagonal room from almost every angle. The decor, although straight from a page of a luxury home magazine, feels as comfortable as a pair of well-loved jeans and cable-knitted cashmere. Looking across the main resort pool towards the marina adjacent, a collective of yacht masts wave a gentle hello. Your host offers to book dinner for you, of course allowing ample time to settle in to your room and take a romantic stroll along the boardwalk which connects you to all points of the resort and marina. You’re guided to your awaiting chambers and before your host slips away, they present you with a small cache of handcrafted chocolates honouring your special occasion. Sweet.

Red wine being poured at The Anchorage Port Stephens, Australia — Indulge in a glass of wine as you get ready for what lies ahead.

Designer digs

You’ve lashed out on one of the split-level lofts because you truly deserve it. The entire whitewashed space, ethereal and streamlined, bears nautical hints, botanical artworks and mirrors that bring the blissful outdoors even closer. A small but inviting sitting room with a balcony connects to the upper deck via a slender light-house stairwell. First impressions evoke instant calm, but the full impact only emerges upon locating the master bedroom. A king-size bed sits central in an observatory, like a giant pearl resting in its shell. Climbing aboard, you marvel at the windswept coastline you’ll be waking to each morning. Slung across the foot of the bed, a fishing net-inspired throw hints toward you being the catch of the day, and who could argue? You spy a message with a bottle. It’s your favourite Alsatian riesling, that sensational drop you first sipped on your European honeymoon and couldn’t forget. The note reads “ Chill me. Tomorrow a surprise awaits". You dutifully follow instructions before sauntering, hand in hand, along the waterfront. The air is cooler than anticipated but a staff member appears with a knowing wink, handing you a light blanket to wrap around your shoulders.

Interiors, The Anchorage Port Stephens — The entire whitewashed space bring the blissful outdoors even closer.

Sophisticated tastes

Your table is waiting at The Wild Herring . Like most resort facilities, this restaurant is open only to guests. Although you know the resort is at capacity, you notice just a few other couples. Paying closer attention, they seem to know one another and the staff. It transpires that they are regular guests, and some have been making the pilgrimage for generations. Grown-up children who once built sandcastles on the shore now view the beautifully refurbished resort with fresh perspective, passing on the magic to new friends and lovers.

Oysters from the menu at The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — The reimagined contemporary Australian menu features rock oysters from nearby waters.

Signature cocktails are sipped as a stream of sail boats return to their moorings. Hours pass without once looking at your phone, swept away with destination dining at its finest. The reimagined contemporary Australian menu features rock oysters from nearby waters, sublime scallops, line-caught local fish and expertly matched wines. You’ve finally found time to reconnect and now only have eyes for each other. Your waiter suggests a nightcap in the stylish Moby’s Bar , and you go because you’re not quite ready for this night to end. The sumptuous whiskey den is swathed in richly hued textures: moss green and eggshell blue velvet, tanned and chocolate leather, and tartan rugs which soften the expanse of dark wood parquetry flooring. Cut crystal-style light fittings mimic whiskey decanters, adding a warm glow to the room, and are enhanced by flickering lantern lights dancing a merry jig. The atmosphere hugs you tight and you order another dram.

Signature Cocktails at The Anchorage Port Stephens — Sip on one of their signature cocktails.

Barefoot discoveries

Through enormous bay windows filtered with sea mist you spy a moody grey winter’s sky from your bed, and take it as a sign for a lie in. Your breathing syncs with the music of waves, lapping and shushing against the break wall. This is the peace you were seeking. Leisurely grazing on crisp pastries with a much-appreciated coffee fix, you’re presented with a hint of the day’s activities and are reminded to grab that special bottle. A pre-planned sailing adventure to mark your anniversary has you stepping onto a yacht deck just as the sun starts to peek through the clouds. You spend the day mesmerised by the drifting sea spray, seagulls gliding overhead and pods of frolicking dolphins so close you reach out in hope of an introduction. In the distance a whale breaches and life feels somehow more complete.

Segulls at The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — Spend your day mesmerised by the seagulls.

After pulling into a quiet cove, you saunter along the seemingly untouched beach barefoot, investigating rock pools and dusting off shells, looking for the perfect keepsake. While you snorkel in the crystal-clear bay a blanket is set on the sand, weighted down with a picnic basket of crisp crudites, a selection of charcuterie and your favourite cheese, and a crusty baguette. It’s time to dry off. The riesling’s uncorked and you toast each other’s cleverness in discovering this special haven.

Post-lunch, a languid nature hike brings the day almost to a close, and you return to The Anchorage as the sun sets and the temperature drops dramatically. A crackling fire beckons you to the lounge. A ‘welcome home’ glass of mulled wine arrives, its spicy aroma transporting you to anniversaries past, and you share a smile. Back in your room you snuggle up with a movie and order in a burger. The chef’s accompanying house-made pickled vegetables are so damn good you ask for the recipe. Simple things.

Walking barefoot at The Anchorage Port Stephens — Saunter along the seemingly untouched beach barefoot.

Ebb and flow

It’s your final full day and you find yourself humming Hotel California, refusing to believe you’ll ever leave. An early decision is made to explore further afield, so you rent two bikes from a nearby business and cycle along the coastal road, rewarding yourself with a wholesome breakfast at one of Nelson Bay’s laid-back cafes. After perusing a few elegant boutiques and homewares stores you top up with a mid-morning coffee to buoy your downhill ride. The breeze whips your hair away from your face and, squealing with delight, you remember the beach holidays of your childhood and less complicated, freer times. You land by the heated adults-only infinity pool, surrounded by immaculately groomed shrubbery for ultimate privacy, and read two pages of that book you’ve been yearning to dive into before falling asleep in the warmth of the sun. You awaken, shaded by an umbrella canopy you’re certain wasn’t there when you arrived. Complimentary seasonal fruit appears, followed by a range of bespoke popsicles. You could stay all afternoon but it’s time for a pampering salt scrub, full body massage and facial at in-house Spa Lucca. You float out some hours later to the strumming of live guitars timed for twilight cocktails on the deck. A small group enjoys a private mixology class and you make a mental note for next time, already knowing which friends you’ll have in tow. Tonight, you’re already committed; a specially themed chef’s table dinner has been arranged. Later in your room, a bath has been drawn, sprinkled with essential oils and freshly plucked petals. You linger, resisting sleep, but it’s futile – you’re already en route to the isle of dreams.

Spa treatments at Spa Lucca, the in-house spa at The Anchorage Port Stephens, Australia — It’s time for a pampering at the in-house Spa Lucca.

Same time next year

You wake to an expanse of blue and the scent of bacon wafting from The Galley Kitchen , a sprawling atrium-like space adjacent to the resort’s main pool. You relax a little longer, farewell new friends and stretch out the morning as long as you can. Navigation begins for a longer stay next winter, and perhaps a brief summer sojourn in between? You’re swayed to take one final meander around the area, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Scrambling to a high point for a few more snapshots, you recall yesterday’s encounter with a deeply creviced fisherman. With a wry grin and a twinkle in his eye he maintained focus on the horizon as he carefully explained the technique of ‘catch and release’. Wise words for travellers. Abandon the helm and let The Anchorage steer your next escape.

Plan your visit at anchorageportstephens.com.au

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .