Checking in: Elements of Byron Resort | Byron Bay, AUSTRALIA
Twice a year, we take my parents out for a staycation and Byron Bay seems to be a place that we tend to visit quite a lot. Mostly because the drive there only takes less than two hours and its chilled vibes always instantly relax us and let us forget about Brisbane’s hustle and bustle.
I found out about the opening of Elements of Byron way before it was actually opened and I was so excited. At the time, there weren’t that many photos on the official website, only a few sneak peaks. I checked out the retreat’s Instagram account for updates on the development progress almost religiously. As soon as the retreat was available for booking, I snatched up the opening offer and made a reservation for a 2 bedroom villa.
When you drive through the gates of this beachside retreat, it’s hard to believe that it belongs to a big hotel chain, but I guess that’s the wonderful thing about Accor’s M Gallery by Sofitel brand, as they put it, MGallery by Sofitel is a collection of boutique hotels dedicated to lovers of life, literature and culture. Each MGallery hotel stands as a gateway into another world – be it a bygone era, a hidden haven or a spectacular natural landscape. Indeed, with a strong eco-focus and set on a 22-hectare plot surrounded by native trees and plants, Elements of Byron is a sanctuary in its own world. Nestled among a Eucalypt forest and wetlands, our villa was only a short stroll away from the main building. With a sleek, earthy tone finish, two separate sleeping quarters were joined by a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious, sun-filled living space which opened onto an outdoor dining area. Both bedrooms were well appointed and with a touch of the iPad provided in the room, we could easily control power and lights. Our bathroom was my favourite part of the villa, and I enjoyed a very relaxing bath in the deep, free-standing bathtub filled with products from Appelles Apothecary & Lab.
In the morning, we had a nice continental breakfast at the Graze Restaurant (which was included in our package), before taking a pleasant walk to the Belongil Beach where the retreat’s Beach Lounge was located. Daybeds were perfectly lined on the white, sandy beach providing a wonderful view of the crystal blue ocean. Much of our time was spent at the retreat’s very impressive lagoon pool. I lazed around on a hanging lounge and watched the other travel bunnie splashing water with Minibun George in the paddling pools for kids, only occasionally dipping my toes in the water to cool down.
Since our visit, Elements of Byron have introduced the Osprey Day Spa, where you can be pampered from head to toe to your heart’s content. I’m slightly devastated that I missed out, but I guess there will always be a next time.
Bunnies’ Travel Notes
Bunnies’ Room Number: 61 – Two-bedroom Villa
Bath products: Appelles Apothecary & Lab
Perks that we loved: complimentary breakfast
Check-in/check-out times: 3pm - 11am
Time of stay: February 2016
What we paid: $639AUD for 1 night
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