GUIDE FOR LORD HOWE ISLAND

Lord Howe Island (Pineterst)

You won't see power lines or tall buildings on Lord Howe Island, which stretches 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) and a maximum width of 2.8 kilometers (1.7 miles). The sound of birds filling the fresh air and lush mountain plains emerge all around you. With only 400 visitors allowed at a time, and 300 permanent residents, the island's rhythm is slow. Bikes are a mode of transportation and shoes don't feel obligatory when you jump in the boat. You can rent a bike (with a child seat and cart if you need one) at Wilson's Bike Hire.

do not miss

-Hike via one of the many walking trails.

-Take a tour of the lagoon in a glass-bottomed boat.

-Hand-feed wild fish at Neds Beach

-How to reach this place

Qantaslink flies several times a week from Sydney, and from Brisbane on weekends, all year round. There is also a seasonal direct service from Port Macquarie every week from February to June and September to December. You can sail to Lord Howe and anchor in the lagoon, but you must contact the Lord Howe Island Board prior to your arrival and apply for public berthing.

Satisfied with culinary tourism

Due to its remoteness from mainland Australia, Lord Howe Island residents must use their natural resources to supplement the materials delivered every two weeks. You'll see vegetable plantations, and kingfish and other wild seafood abound here. Since 1848, six generations of the Rourke family have run Pinetrees Lodge, known for its fine dining, including the legendary weekly Fish Fry night, and sunset watching platforms. Capella Lodge is a five-star luxury venue with an equally great seasonal menu – enjoy a drink to enjoy the sunset and a couch with a view of Mount Gower. Arajilla Retreat combines delectable dishes, including produce from its kitchen garden and fish caught, as well as Ayurvedic spa treatments in a tent made of tree trunks.

Admire the scenery on foot

Get to know the island by walking the trails. From easy walks on the beach to day nature walks available for all levels. The hefty challenges are Kims Lookout and Malabar Hill. Starting at Settlement Beach, you'll hike to Kims Lookout, taking in the mesmerizing views, then crossing Malabar Hill, where you'll see the Balls Pyramid. This is a natural obelisk, rising 551 meters (1807 ft) from the ocean. End the hike at Neds Beach with a swim and barbecue. Some hotels will even organize a picnic for you. If you want something else, head to Blinky Beach, known for its great surfing.

Exploring Mount Gower

If you're fit and adventurous, you should add to the list: a walk to the top of Mount Gower. This 14-kilometre (8.7-mile) up-and-down hike takes about 8.5 hours and must be done with a registered guide, of whom there are only two. Jack Shick is an experienced guide on Lord Howe Island, having reached the summit more than 1800 times. Plus, there's Dean Hiscox, Lord Howe Island's forest ranger for 16 years and now sharing his extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna while on tour. Follow Transit Hill for panoramic views of the island.