Lord Howe Island,New South Wales, Australia
Hailed as one of the most beautiful subtropical islands in the Pacific, the tiny crescent of Lord Howe Island boasts 90 species of coral on surrounding reefs—the world’s southernmost—500 species of fish,and more than 130 recorded bird species, including the endemic wooden hen. Several of these had a close brush with extinction before a successful recovery program boosted their numbers. The island is home to approximately 350 human residents as well—also protected, although by just one policeman.
The tallest stack of volcano pinnacles in the world was formed here, millions of years ago, by massive eruptions. One of them, Ball’s Pyramid, juts 1,800 feet out of the ocean 14 miles south of Lord Howe. It is one of countless spots nearby that lure divers with their access to a kaleidoscopic underwater world. Snorkelers can rent goggles and snorkels on the beach and simply walk into the surf from various points on the island to find themselves on the reef.
Given Lord Howe’s size (it’s 7 miles long and just 1.2 miles across at its widest), biking and walking are the preferred modes of transportation, and the networks of trails for both range from easy to rigorous. Most of the handful of accommodations on the island are owned by welcoming locals, including the beautifully sited all-inclusive Pinetrees Resort, which hosts jazz concerts from June through August. Luxurious Capella Lodge is perched above romantic Lover’s Bay, with spectacular views of the ocean and mountains. Have your hotel prepare a picnic lunch for you to enjoy on the white sand of Ned’s Beach; you’ll discover that its crystal-clear waters are a favorite of tropical fish that will eat right out of your hand. No matter where you go, crowds on the island will never be an issue: Visitors are limited to 400 at a time.
Where:
445 miles/717 km east of
Sydney.
Visitor info: www.lordhoweisland
.info.
Pinetrees Resort:
Tel 61/2-9262-6585; www.pinetrees.com.au.
Cost:
5-night
all-inclusive package from $1,065 per person
(off-peak), from $1,760 (peak).
Capella Lodge:
Tel 61/2-9918-4355; www.capella
lodge.com.au.
Cost:
from $650 per person, allinclusive
(off-peak), from $700 (peak). Best
time: Dec–Mar for summer weather.
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