We Visited The Award-Winning Elements Of Byron For A Luxurious Eco-Friendly Getaway
A green escape
By Tracy Sinclair | 9th October 2023Byron Bay is always a good idea. Elements of Byron? Even better. Style Media’s Head of Agency Tracy Sinclair shares why her recent stay at this award-winning luxurious beachfront resort ticked all the short-break boxes:
Champagne? Check!
We arrive at Elements of Byron on a Friday afternoon, a little early for check in. But it’s okay: according to my watch it’s ‘pop o’clock’, so we take a seat overlooking the stunning resort pool and order a glass of bubbles. Ah, an instant sense of calm comes over me. And anticipation! The resort promises an unparalleled blend of sustainable luxury and breathtaking natural surroundings, and we’re itching to get amongst it.
Eco-explorers (well, kind of)
Our deluxe 2-bedroom villa is perfectly positioned backing onto rainforest, providing a gorgeous connection to it from the private bathhouse, indoor and outdoor living areas. And although each villa has its own carpark, we really won’t need the car much at all. In true luxury resort style, you can simply call for a buggy to take you anywhere within the property. We opt for sneakers and set out to explore this breathtaking property set over 50 acres of natural wonderland (and just a short stroll to my fave, Belongil Beach).
Sippin’ by the fire pit
As the sun goes down, we can’t resist the pull of the resort fire pit. Isn’t there something so mesmerising about sitting around a fire? Friday nights feature live music and tonight we’re treated to a local guitarist. It’s a magic way to unwind after a day on the beach or exploring the Byron Bay region. The vibe is friendly and relaxed – guests mix and mingle or simply sit back and enjoy the laid-back ambience with an expertly crafted margarita in hand (okay, that was me!).
Creative culinary journey
The perfect night unfolds with an incredible four-course tasting menu with wine pairing at Azure Bar and Grill that showcases the region’s finest produce. Each signature dish is a work of art, celebrating Chef Ebony Baker’s creative flair and imagination. The octopus carpaccio – slow cooked for five hours, and accompanied by a native Australian togarashi powder – has surprisingly delicate flavours and the Bangalow sweet pork served with an apple vanilla bean puree and bitter slaw salad is absolutely worth returning for alone. But it’s the theatrics of The Sugarcane Burn dessert (inspired by the harvesting of sugarcane at this time of year) that ultimately steal the show. We asked for one to share, though I wish we’d asked for one each!
Lazy Saturday
We plan to spend the day around the pool, but alas, I’ve left my togs at home (wink wink), so it’s off to the Byron Bay shops for a new cozzie. On the way back we pop into the North Byron Hotel and are delighted to discover this hidden treasure. Out the back, the Gardens outdoor area is geared for groups and families (it’s super kid-friendly), with fine water mist everywhere to cool diners down on a hot day. It’s here you can also book a guided pony ride along the beach. We tuck into a ‘really good’ burger, listen to the live music, then walk the short distance back to Elements. I made a mental note to bring my grandson back there next time.
Adults-only pool
The central lagoon pool at Elements of Byron is impressive, but we love the option of kid-free poolside lounging, especially during school holidays! The swim up bar is a popular spot to perch and chat with bar staff, however, if you’re really in ‘flop and drop’ mode, simply order a meal or drinks from your cabana or lounges and it will miraculously appear!
Is it really a luxe break without a spa visit?
Our last morning arrives but the pampering hasn’t finished yet. Hubby heads back to the pool and I head to the Osprey Day Spa, where relaxation takes on a whole new meaning. The spa is a haven of tranquillity. The open design allows me to soak in the natural beauty of Elements, with established trees and the sound of birds. My 90-minute treatment is simply one of the best I’ve experienced. It’s so comprehensive using LaGaia Australian-made products including the pH Cleanse, Azul Oil Cleanser, Vitamin Complex Cleanser, Vitamin C, Diamond Eye Gel, Renew Serum, Liquid Lift, Beauty Balm, Rose Quartz Nourish and Pearl Mask. I floated out of the spa, so blissed out that I walked past hubby sitting in the waiting area.
Sadly, it’s time to check out, however even just two nights away has rejuvenated us. Just to slow down (and primarily) stay put and enjoy all that Elements offers was wonderful. In a world where luxury and environmental consciousness often collide, Elements of Byron seamlessly marries the two, creating an unforgettable eco-luxe experience that sets a new standard for sustainable travel.
Love the look of Elements of Byron? Book your stay here.
