Pulling up to Bells at Killcare, I can’t decide whether I’ve landed on the set of Grease or Mamma Mia. I can truly “hear the bells” thanks to a chorus of singing cicadas, while the scene before me feels like a slice of paradise you’d find in a Greek island movie – just reimagined with a splash of Hamptons sophistication.
Bells at Killcare is sure to, well, ring a bell for Aussies who appreciate the finer things in life. Nestled on the Bouddi Peninsula just outside Sydney, this coastal-luxe boutique hotel is a zippy 20-minute ferry trip from Palm Beach or 90 minutes by car. Since opening in 2007, Bells at Killcare has become synonymous with relaxed sophistication, best known for its 25 Hamptons-style seaside cottages, a farm-to-table restaurant boasting an award-winning wine list, and a luxurious day spa.
In February 2024, the resort unveiled four nature-inspired luxe lodges, tucked away in a private eco-bush sanctuary at the front of the property. I was fortunate enough to spend a long weekend in one of the three-storey standalone residences, and it surpassed all of my wildest dreams.
Unlike the Hamptons vibe of the white-and-blue main property, the eco-certified lodges blend into the surrounding native greenery with their earthy olive hues. Our lovely host, Anna, takes us on a detailed walk-through of the property, which is much-needed to appreciate all the special touches and inclusions.
Each lodge comfortably sleeps four people, with two identical king bedrooms that can be split into singles if needed. My feet sink into the soft, fluffy carpet, and I resist the urge to flop back onto the pure linen bedspread with a green throw that nods to the surrounding greenery. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors open to a private veranda, where low-slung chairs invite you to unwind and take in views of the native bushland. Inside, another door opens to an oversized en suite that’s possibly the most beautiful bathroom I’ve ever seen. Glossy Spanish emerald tiles pop against the limestone floors, while the brass rain shower and deep concrete bath invite total relaxation – trust me, the concrete tub is much more comfortable than it sounds.
Both en suites lead to a tiny nook with an open-air shower, which you can also access from your private garden. This outdoor paradise features an al fresco dining space, poolside barbecue, matching day beds and private magnesium pool that stays at a swell 24 degrees year-round (powered by solar panels, no less). You’ll want to stay for at least three nights – if not a whole week – to lap up all the luxuries.
Upstairs, I was amazed by the bright and spacious open-plan living and dining area, complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, a sleek bar, plush lounges, a huge Chromecast television and a cosy fireplace for the cooler months. But the real gem was stumbling upon the secret staircase from the terrace that took us to the rooftop ‘Sunset Deck’, where we were treated to stunning views of Broken Bay, Palm Beach and Bouddi National Park.
You honestly won’t want to leave Bells during your stay. I sure didn’t. Breakfast is included every morning and is well worth waking up for. From oven-fresh pastries to soft-boiled eggs from Bells' own hens, served with housemade sourdough – this is five-star breakfast at its finest. As a bonus, freshly baked bread and newspapers can be delivered to your door each morning upon request.
All lodge guests are also treated to a lavish lunch – you can opt for a seasonal two-course meal delivered to your door, a gourmet barbecue pack to grill by the pool, or a packed lunch to take hiking. For dinner, I headed to the onsite restaurant, Wild Flower Bar and Dining, where I could choose between a three-course à la carte or five-course chef's tasting dinner. The menu is a celebration of locally harvested seafood, also featuring Bells’ farm egg pasta, premium steaks and seasonal sides prepared with fresh ingredients harvested daily from the 500-square-metre kitchen gardens.
There are other seasonal experiences you can book in for during your stay – rejuvenating day spa treatments, spring garden tours, whale-watching adventures, lawn picnics, wine tastings with the in-house sommeliers, private yoga and coastal hikes. Local transfers to Bouddi National Park are also available. I walked 15 minutes down the road to the start of the Maitland Bay track, which is one of the Central Coast’s most popular bushwalks. After descending the steep trail, I was greeted by soft white sand and had the whole beach all to myself. The next day, I tackled a segment of the stunning Bouddi Coastal Walk, which stretches from Putty Beach (just a five-minute drive from Bells) to MacMasters Beach.
Bells really is the epitome of coastal luxury – I could have happily spent a full week here, sipping locally sourced tea in the oversized tub, basking in the sun on the day beds and admiring the stunning coastal vistas from the rooftop. My weekend on the Central Coast was one of the most magical of the year, and I’m certain anyone who’s stayed here has fallen under Bells’ enchanting spell too. It’s the ultimate wand-erlust escape!