A family farm, dating back to the late 19th Century, it was always the dream of owner Claire Gemes to turn this land into an exclusive retreat for guests. In October this year, together with her husband Rob, Gemes turned her dream into a reality. Their beautiful property, worked by her family for more than 100 years spanning seven generations, opened as the Lon Retreat & Spa.

With only seven luxury suites plus a mineral spa, the feeling here is one of warmth and modern luxury. Featuring pared-back interiors with an earthy palette – think concrete floors and lots of natural wood – local artists and designers are showcased in the carefully curated selection of commissioned artwork and furniture on display. At Lon, it is all about detail and design. A corridor that runs off the main lobby area doubles as a gallery space, showcasing the works of rotating local artists. First up, Gemes’ brother-in-law, and his beautiful landscape photography that was shot around the local area. It is here in the lobby that guests can also help themselves to an “honour bar”, with a delightful selection of local wines and other treats from the region to choose from. You just make a note of what you have had, and then fix them up at the end of your stay.

Environmental sustainability is another cornerstone of the Lon Retreat, with natural materials, such as sandstone and local timbers, being used wherever possible. Consideration has also been given to sustainable farming practices, bush-fire management, collection and conservation of rainwater, energy efficient cooling and heating practices and the long-term maintenance of the site and natural eco-system that it occupies.

All of the seven suites at Lon offer their own kind of personal sanctuary, and are named after a type of cloud – think Alto, Cumulus, Cirrus, Stratus, Pileus, Nimbus, and Arcus – you won’t be disappointed in any of them. Lush linen bed furnishings and interiors all inspired by the natural surrounds of the ocean and farmland, offering a cosy and luxurious sleeping experience. If budget is no option, splurge a little on the Alto room (for its incredible panoramic ocean views and exclusive access via a private staircase, and own private balcony and fireplace), or Cumulus (for its own private mineral bath, and amazing sunrise and sunset views over the ocean).

In terms of what to do at Lon, the best part is that you can choose to do as little or as much as you like. The Lon Spa is always a good idea, as is a dip in their mineral pool – featuring Mineral Water sourced from the farm. And if its a sunny day, there are plenty of beautiful beach walks or trails around the property to explore. 

Rooms start from $360 per night, and include access to the Mineral Pool plus an Artisan Breakfast. A 2-night min stay applies.

Equally beautiful in design as the rest of the retreat, the Lon Spa offers a dozen or so treatments out of its three treatment rooms featuring mineral water fed soaking tubs, steam rooms, and  showcasing Ayurvedic principles and Subtle Energies spa products.

Our “Blissful Marma Massage” was a heavenly mix of long, firm flowing movements with therapeutic pressure points, with the marma therapy and chakra balance aligning vital energy centres. It was 90 minutes of pure bliss and we came out floating. In addition to the wonder that already exists at Lon, there are also plans to add a culinary experience as well. A paddock to plate kind of ethos, we are certain a Lon dining experience will be just as impressive as the accommodation and spa. It is very, very beautiful here.