Idyllic Holiday Hideaways #2
A mid-year break is just the thing for relaxing, exploring new or favourite places and recharging your batteries.
There’s a lot more to the Central Coast than beautiful beaches, much as we love them! The lush hinterland, tranquil waterways and rugged bushland offer year-round attractions and activities, all within easy reach of Sydney. Perfect for an autumn getaway.
Bikers and hikers will find plenty of challenging trails along the coast and further inland; check out alltrails.com for grades of difficulty, directions and maps. National parks in the Central Coast region include Bouddi, Brisbane Water, Popran and Wyrrrabalong; apart from swathes of unspoilt bush, attractions in the parks include historic Aboriginal sites, spectacular waterfalls, horse riding trails, kayaking trips on the Hawkesbury, whale- watching, and lots more.
Here, we take a look at two popular spots handy for Belle Escapes holiday homes. Belle Escapes’ concierge team is ready to help you make the most of your time on the Coast and organise unforgettable luxury experiences for you. A romantic weekend away? They will arrange an in-house chef and a home visit by one of their expert massage therapists. Hosting an intimate corporate retreat? The team can cater to your needs, supplying retreat-style yoga, fitness trainers or cooking classes at one of the stunning Belle Escapes properties.
KILLCARE AND KILLCARE HEIGHTS
The charming village of Killcare is home to Putty Beach, often named as one of the most gorgeous beaches in the region. Lying between peaceful Hardys Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Killcare is on the Bouddi Peninsula and has easy access to many of the superb walking trails in Bouddi National Park. For a more leisurely day, head to Hardys Bay Boat, Bike Paddle Hire to explore peaceful Brisbane Water by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or small boat – fishing licences, bait, tackle and rod hire are available from the booking office. See bbphcc.com.au.
EXPLORE: Bouddi National Park
Grab your walking shoes and hike to Bullimah Lookout in Bouddi National Park. Bring your binoculars to spot humpback whales that make the long journey north from the Southern Ocean to the Great Barrier Reef between late-April and September to give birth, then return to their Antarctic home from September through to November.
EAT & DRINK: Hardys Bay Bistro
Live like a local and join the community buzz at this ever-popular venue located in a heritage building that overlooks Hardys Bay Reserve and the wharf. Drop in to sample the all-day breakfast, book for a leisurely lunch or join the sundowners to take in the glorious sunsets. See hardysbistro.com.au.
SHOP: Bouddi Gallery
A leisurely escape means stocking up on experiences. Bouddi Gallery is the Central Coast’s premier Aboriginal arts and crafts gallery and showcases a range of contemporary lifestyle products and homewares that will surprise and delight discerning shoppers. See bouddigallery.com.au.
BELLE ESCAPES FEATURED PROPERTY: Killcare Beach House
This is quintessential Australian coastline living at its purest and most awe inspiring. This three-level glass encased home is surreal. While away the hours in this luxury beachfront retreat, watching natures wild, beauty and ever-changing panorama. Killcare views are so close it feels you could touch them and in fact you can, with direct beach access only footsteps from the property. Located just over one hour from Sydney yet a million miles from the bustling CBD.
Contact Belle Escapes – 02 4360 1717, www.belleescapes.com.au/central-coast
