2020 has been an interesting year for travel, but a big positive is that it gave us an opportunity to explore hidden treasures in our own beautiful country. With border closures NSW residents can’t go far, so The Lux Traveller is on a mission to find all the secret hideaways on NSW coast and in the mountains that would bring you joy and satisfy a craving for some luxury, pampering and adventure.

If you prefer coastal trips The Anchorage is an excellent choice for a long weekend. It is located in Port Stephens, 2.5 hours drive north of Sydney. The area boasts pretty beaches, unique Anna Bay sand dunes, horse riding and picturesque coastal walks. The Anchorage hotel is situated in the marina, amongst pretty boats, with a nearest beach only a couple of minutes away.

On arrival all guests are offered a glass of sparkling wine, a perfect start to a relaxing stay.

Accommodation

The Anchorage has 80 rooms and suites, a nice number to create a cozy yet relaxed atmosphere. Rooms vary from standard garden view rooms to luxurious suites with spectacular views of the marina.

For families we recommend Anchorage Plus rooms as they offer a king bed and a single bed, while two-level Loft Suites have a fold-out sofa for the kids downstairs. Gorgeous two-bedroom Loft Suite boasts arguably the prettiest bedroom in the house with 180-degree views of the marina and the bay from the bed.

Two signature suites, Captain’s suite and Master Suite, offer the ultimate comfort, plush design and best views over the marina and would be our recommendation for the fussy lux travellers.

Bigger families would enjoy the stand alone two-bedroom Luxe Villa, the only one of a kind. It is fully self-contained and offers a spacious terrace with 180-degree views of the marina and the sea, indoor – outdoor dining, sun chairs and an outdoor Jacuzzi for six guests.

Dining

The Anchorage boasts two restaurants – fine dining The Wild Herring and all day dining at the Galley Kitchen. The Wild Herring has a sublime seafood degustation menu and has recently won Best Seafood Restaurant in NSW in 2019. Seared Scallops and Morton Bay Bug risotto were my favourites.

The Galley Kitchen specialises in local seafood and produce and also serves a decadent High Tea. My favourite dishes were Raw Plate (a creative plate of different sashimi) and Braised Beef Cheek that melts in the mouth.

It’s worth making a reservation ahead of time as both restaurants have limited availability and are very popular with the locals.

Breakfast is normally served buffet style, but due to COVID all hotels are serving it a la carte.  Anchorage offers a pastry basket, fresh juices, eggs, pancakes, yogurts and hot drinks as part of the Sparkling breakfast.

Spa Lucca

I booked a 90 min hot stone massage and it was a beautiful experience that I highly recommend. It also needs to be booked well in advance, as the spa gets very busy. My partner missed out on a treatment as we didn’t book ahead.

The spa is gorgeous – with four treatment rooms, Vichy shower suite, private relaxation lounge, whirlpool and steam room, it is a sanctuary of pampering and relaxation. My therapist was very professional and caring, my body felt very relaxed and skin extra soft after 90 minutes of pure bliss.

I also like the natural products they use, Sodashi, Mukti and La Gaia and recommend trying some of these at home. It’s nice to know that there are no ‘baddies’ in the eco-luxe products you apply to your face and body.

Facilities

We visited Anchorage in winter, but even then enjoyed the sunshine, walks and activities in the area.  But in summer it would be an absolute paradise with a multitude of beaches to explore.

On a warm day you can enjoy two wet edge swimming pools, one for families and another for adults only.

On a colder day you could cosy up in the hotel lounge by a fireplace with a good book or a cocktail in hand. There is a small selection of books to borrow at the hotel reception.

The Lux Traveller Loves

Hands-on management, led by Ali Hnaien, General Manager with years of international experience in the luxury hotel industry.

Warm and friendly customer service from a multicultural team.

Cosy suites with lots of space and privacy for families.

Excellent bathroom amenities by Balmain.

Highest quality bedding and linen.

Blissful spa treatments.

Excellent fine dining experience at The Wild Herring.

All In All

Excellent hotel for a weekend getaway or for a summer family holiday.