Capella Lodge

We were met by a representative of Capella Lodge at the airport who told us our luggage was already being taken to the hotel even though we didn’t know it had been taken off the plane. So, it was clear we were in for a very carefree getaway. The boutique style place didn’t have that many rooms so it gave a very nice feeling of exclusivity. Our room was a nice size with very comfortable bed, nice linens and pillows. The bathroom was nice , water pressure and temperature were very good. The room had a large balcony/deck with panoramic view of the large mountain edging into the ocean. All of our meals were delicious and nicely presented. Wine pairings were offered with dinner. The hotel isn’t really walking distance to town but guests have access to bikes, e-bikes, golf cart and/or a team member can take you where you want to go. Even though the hotel/lodge is small, the team/staff are very discreet, unobtrusive and respectful of everyone’s space. All the team/staff regardless of job function were very professional and friendly. The setting, Lord Howe Island, was an idyllic almost like a surreal movie set. Cappella Lodge was a perfect accommodation taking in the environment. We highly recommend Cappella Lodge.

While you cannot fault the location of Capella Lodge as the only accommodation south of the airport, with impressive views of Mt Gower from the dining areas and some room decks, it was the service and the food that was stand out. We were met at the airport and had a quick mini-bus tour on the 5 minute trip to Capella Lodge where we were installed on the outdoor lounge with a glass of bubbly. From that point, every staff member came to know our names and engaged us at every opportunity. We did get the sense of being watched as our complimentary mini-bar was restocked with beer, wine, snacks and cheeses seemingly every time we left the room. Cars are scarce on Lord Howe but I did notice that other guests had hired a car which was a complete waste of money. Bikes are provided to all guests and e-bikes for a fee. There is an electric golf buggy which seats 6 that you can hire; although they gave it to us for a day. Otherwise, they will ferry you around the island on request. 2 level studio room was comfortable but I would not say luxurious but even though the weather was terrible for most of our stay (roaring 60km winds and rain) we did not spend much time in the room - except to luxuriate in hot tub while wind and rain did their thing. Food and wine is fine dining every night (and breakfast is pretty good too) and food would rate with best restaurants we have attended. If you are (very) adventurous, book your Mt Gower 8hr adventure well before you arrive. Snorkeling from glass bottom boats seems to have better availability (most seem to close on Saturday) but weather put-paid to those for us. Fantastic place, fantastic lodge. Thanks to Anna, Anna, Anna, Shanna, Hanna, Hanna and Annabelle for the service!

Thank you to the entire Capella Lodge team for a truly outstanding stay. Our time at the lodge was perfect from beginning to end, with nature and the backdrop of Mount Gower taking center stage. The service was flawless at every touchpoint, and the team were friendly and helpful without being overbearing. The lodge embraces ‘barefoot luxury’ in a premium and authentic way, which made everyone feel totally at home and relaxed. We also loved being on the quieter side of the island, as the remote swim spots offered peacefulness and beaches all to ourselves. The food was also a highlight - especially the degustation with paired wines on our second night, which was exceptional. I will be recommending it to all of my family and friends as the ideal place for a celebration or spontaneous trip. Thank you again for such a memorable and flawless stay.

A spectacular location for our holiday stay with two teen. The location, dining, and hospitality team at the Capella represent the best Australia has to offer. Lord Howe itself was like stepping back in time to a place with the only decisions needing to be made are what peaceful, beautiful thing to do that day. We hiked the crest of the island, saw more coral and fish than I've seen anywhere else, and cruised the island on electric bikes by breweries, beaches, and the historic little town that seems to hold many stories. Wish I had gone to their museum the first day to get the lay of the land and understand the history more, but other than that I can't think of a thing we would change. It would be an equally magical spot for a couple alone. With this much space and beauty there's a spot for everyone. One of our best family trips ever.

An outstanding few days . Lord Howe is such a delight to visit and capella just adds to the experience . Situated just out of town But it’s easily accessible either by a Capella drive or a bike and yes e bikes are there ! It’s a beautiful spot and the rooms are very comfortable with a great hot tub The food is outstanding but the real plus was the sensational service from every staff member they really are a great team

Don’t go here unless you have time and money to waste. Day one of holiday – flight couldn’t land because of weather, flew around for a while, then went to Port Macquarie to refuel. After 2 hours in the airport we were then flown back to Sydney – 10 hours going nowhere! We were fortunate that we could fly again the next day – we were told it can take 3 or 4 days to get there. I spent the whole weekend worried about whether we would get on the plane to go back to work, which was not very relaxing. My fears turned into reality when we turned up to the airport for the return flight and we were told as there was no wind that not all the passengers may be able to fly home as it was a weight restricted flight. We were then weighed with our bags and then told there was good news and bad the news – the good news is that everyone could get on the plane, but we would not be taking our luggage with us. Our luggage was delivered over 2 days later (and someone had to be at home to accept it, which was very inconvenient). We are still arguing with the insurance company weeks later about getting the money back for the unused night of accommodation. Yes the island is beautiful and accommodation and food were excellent but the wine was very average. So, in summary if you are looking for a relaxing long weekend just go somewhere else, such as Qualia or Wolgan Valley – it will better at half the price, without all the hassles of travel.