Tucked away on the Koonyum Range mountain the Nightcap National Park, (one of Australia’s largest subtropical rainforests), you’ll find Blackbird Byron Bay. Completely surrounded by nature, this is a place where you can ‘escape to yourself’. The tranquility, native wildlife and lush flora and fauna will allow you to completely unwind and reconnect with nature. Purposefully designed to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and even busy Byron Bay, this eco-luxe oasis nourishes the mind, body and soul. While it may feel remote, and look like something out of Morocco, it’s only a 12 minute drive from Mullumbimby.

Why come here?

Perfect for honeymooners, babymooners, anniversaries, big birthdays or simply to escape the busyness of everyday life.

A former banana farm and packing shed, creator James Hudson re-purposed many materials from the site to reflect the character of what the land previously occupied. You will find original pieces all over such as the use of rusty roof sheets and the hard wooden timbers. Their aim to combine progressive ecological design with pure luxury has come alive.

The facilities

The infinity swimming pool is not chlorinated chemicals but Magnesium Salt and Mineral. Pair this with the infrared sauna and you have the perfect combination to activate your body. It will ensure you completely unwind as you melt into the magnesium mineral waters after a hot steam. Take in the views of the Pacific ocean and Mt. Chincogan as you float in divine luxury. With a total of 5 pavilions, it is quite common to get exclusive use of the pool.

The reception pavilion is purposefully designed for you to connect with other guests and be your ‘home away from home’, without lifting a finger. Breakfast is included and made to order. There is a guest fridge including drinks, which you can help yourself to. You just keep a list of whatever you’ve taken from the duration of your stay, and you’re charged accordingly. Cocktails are made and served from 6pm. But the best bit – enjoy a degustation menu in the evening with other guests from a private chef who arrives and cooks on site. You must book this in with 7 days notice to allow for chefs to plan.

The accommodation

As there are only five pavilions on site, Blackbird offers an exclusive feel. Each detached pavilion is privately positioned to take full advantage of the view – wake up to the sun rising over the Pacific Ocean. The feast for the senses continues with King-sized beds with Egyptian cotton linen, burnished concrete floors, reclaimed timber joinery and Moroccan tiled bathrooms with rainwater showerheads.

In your Pavilion, you’ll find an array of different teas to enjoy, all made on site. Dare to try the charcoal toothpaste provided, also made on site. Organic hand wash, body wash, shampoo and conditioner are all provided and made locally. You can also organise a deluxe 90 minute in room massage when you book.

On arrival, we were greeted with a glass of bubbles and a cheese platter to enjoy while we took in our new surrounds.

Things to do

If you’re not relaxing or indulging in the Magnesium Mineral waters, there are plenty of things to do in the area. From chasing waterfalls, walking the surrounding national parks or long lunches. Read more here.