Verandas with cushioned swinging cane chairs, a custom built bocce court of sand and a camp chair-lined fire pit in the yard. There’s an air stream camper you can hire by the wood-lined lap pool. The white walls, stylish minimal furnishings and green spaces make it a genuine place of rest. It is quiet. Oh, and it’s right in the heart of Byron Bay, a mere minute’s walk from the beach. I think this is my favourite hotel in Australia.

The Albatross rooms had recently opened at The Atlantic when I first caught an online glimpse of the hotel. With a tropical aquatic seafaring-style theme complete with Moroccan tiled private courtyards and outdoor shower, my heart was aflutter which I think had an immediate reaction down to my keyboard finger because I booked right away.

While lazing on our private courtyard in a swing chair (or was it on the daybed?!), reading the perfectly curated little leaflet guide to their recommended places in the area (such as Folk Byron Bay), I knew I had arrived somewhere that had set a new standard for trips to Byron.

The beds were comfy, the staff were friendly and laid back, the grounds had a surfer shack vibe and the design touches were on point – think charcoal paint, cacti and cane, oars and surfboard racks, all nicely spread out for a feeling of space and relaxation.

Make sure you book enough time to account for the fact that you will want to both explore Byron and laze in the hotel grounds, or in your swing chair – did I mention those?

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