WAYFARER ISSUE THREE WINTER 2021

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO EXECUTIVE TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE ISSUE 3 MID-WINTER 2021 AUD $14.95

Business rules

Airlines up the ante with new cabins and onboard menus

Alpine

wanderlust

Luxury hotels, high country resorts, ski fields and wineries to discover this year

PLUS MELBOURNE DINING, LUXE IN AUCKLAND, ASTON MARTIN & THE WORLD’S BEST GIN

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ISSUE THREE CONTENTS

In this issue.

22

INFLIGHT DELIGHTS Virgin Australia’s delicious, new onboard menus

24

BONJOUR, QANTAS Hotel chain Accor and the Flying Kangaroo team-up again

32

NATIONAL AMBITIONS

How Doma Group is shaking up the Australian hotel scene

36

FEATURES

42

52

76

Crystalbook Collection makes a stunning debut in Newcastle

How Mt. Uncle has become top of the gin world

Where to eat, drink and ski in Thredbo, New South Wales

KINGSLEY’S ARRIVAL

46

BOTANICAL CHAMPION

56

LATIN FLAIR

ALPINE WANDERLUST

50

68

The Barossa Valley’s Pepperjack has great global X-factor

Wayfarer’s essential guide to Queenstown, New Zealand

Meet the talent behind Melbourne’s new hot spot, Lona Misa

ARGENTINIAN STYLE

Inside some of the leading alpine hotels in Australia and New Zealand

REMARKABLE PLAYGROUND

LEGEND OF KOSCIUSZKO

92

POWER & PASSION Behind the wheel of Aston Martin’s stunning DBX

96

FRENCH ELEGANCE

Peugeot has upgraded its popular 5008 GT SUV

HARBOUR MASTER Checking-in to New Zealand’s latest luxury hotel, Park Hyatt Auckland

A taste of Aston Martin’s first ever SUV, the DBX (p92)

WAYFARER 5

CONTENTS ISSUE THREE

In this issue.

REGULARS

08

EDITOR’S LETTER

55

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

Welcome to the edition by James Wilkinson

Hot destinations from across the world and essential accessories

THE HOT LIST

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

12

82

What’s on our travel radar across the world right now

Must-have accessories for the global high-flyer

TAKE OFF

TECH CORNER

16

84

Essential airline news and reviews from across the world

Hot technology for home, the office and on the road

ROOM KEY

HOME STYLE

26

The latest hotel news, reviews and interviews

44

APPETITTE

We check out some of the best bars, restaurants and hot brands

86

A collection of Wayfarer’s favourites for the house and holiday home

88

INSIDE LINE

The latest motoring news and accessories from premium brands

98

NEXT TIME

Coming up in the next edition of Wayfarer

Newcastle is home to Crystalbrook’s latest hotel (p42)

6 WAYFARER

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EDITOR'S LETTER

That amazing feeling of wanderlust

I

t has been a challenging time for travel, with borders opening and closing around the world and lockdowns here across Australia.

But for many of us with a keen desire of wandering, that great feeling of wanderlust, we are in planning mode for where we want to go next, be it a business trip or family holiday.

With so many restrictions on travel at present, there is no doubt that the next time we can travel freely for business, we’ll be staying on for leisure whenever we can. It is going to fuel ‘bleisure’ travel on another level because craving other destinations and cultures is a part of life, as is visiting clients in person.

There are only so many Zoom calls we can take, or 360-degree views of ski fields we can look at and I think for many of us, we have seemingly had a lifetime’s worth of them.

In every issue of Wayfarer, we want to inspire travel and uncover the world’s most amazing destinations.

In this, our third edition, we turn our attention to a couple of our favourite alpine playgrounds in the Southern

Hemisphere, Queenstown, New Zealand and Thredbo, New South Wales.

Across 24 pages in this issue, we look at some of the top hotels and resorts to stay in, plus uncover the best restaurants, wineries, bars, boutiques and activities on offer in Queenstown and Thredbo.

We also look at an alpine escape to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania for a brilliant wilderness break away from skiing and boarding.

In this 100-page issue, our equal largest ever, we also take the new Aston Martin DBX for a spin, checkin to Park Hyatt Auckland, find out new premium offerings from Qantas and Virgin Australia, sit down for a meal at Melbourne’s Lona Misa, learn about the world’s best gin in Far North Queensland and much more.

I hope you enjoy the issue, tell your friends and colleagues about Wayfarer and let me know any feedback you have.

Safe travels,

James Wilkinson Editor-In-Chief

TONS OF BONUS VIDEO CONTENT!

The digital issue of Wayfarer magazine is loaded-up with over 20 videos.

Look for the TV icon throughout the digital magazine and a video will pop-up. For more videos and destination guides to cities across the world, visit wayfarer.travel

Editor-In-Chief

JAMES WILKINSON james@wayfarer.travel

Creative Director

ADRIAN TIPPER atipper@intermedia.com.au

Managing Director SIMON GROVER

Production Manager JACQUI COOPER jacqui@intermedia.com.au

Sales Enquiries

Tel: +61 (0)2 8586 6204

Published by

james@wayfarer.travel

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DISCLAIMER This publication is published by FAB Media Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials.

The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication. Copyright © 2021 - Travel Business Media Pty Ltd.

8 WAYFARER

We are proud and honoured to be Certified with the highest level 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating.

One of just six airlines worldwide to currently receive this top recognition.

FIJIAIRWAYS.COM

DEPARTURES. The executive travel hot list, plus the latest airline and hotel news and reviews from across the globe.

12

26

What needs to be on your radar this season

The latest hotel news, reviews and interviews from around the world

The Hot List

16

Take Off

Essential airline news, reviews and features from the across the sky

Room Key

44

Appetite

Hot tables, bars and wineries, plus food and drink news

Qantas and Accor are continuing their partnership at Lounges across the world (p24)

WAYFARER 11

TAG TAG

The Hot List What’s on our travel and lifestyle radar across the world right now.

01

A BY ADINA’S EPIC SYDNEY OPENING

TFE Hotels’ brand-new premium property, A by Adina Sydney, has opened its doors, becoming one of the Harbour City’s hottest new CBD offerings. The hotel’s approach to detailed simplicity in design extends beyond the arrival of Sydney’s first ever sky lobby – setting the city’s world-famous skyline aglow, 100 metres up, wrapped in a four-storey, glass-encased ‘golden crown’. In a first for TFE Hotels, the property champions an integrated control system that seamlessly readies any one of its 194 apartments (82 studio, 104 one-bedroom, eight two-bedroom apartments) the moment guests commence check in. Alongside the hotel’s lobby, rooms and epic pool, it’s the food and beverage offerings that are exceptional. Find Dean & Nancy on 22 – a sophisticated cocktail bar and dining experience from the globally-awarded Maybe Sammy team – as well as Italian eatery by acclaimed Sydney restaurateur, Maurice Terzini, of Icebergs and CicciaBella fame. abyadina.com 12 WAYFARER

THE HOT LIST DEPARTURES

02

EPOS’ ADAPT 360 BUSINESS HEADPHONES

EPOS, the new global premium Danish audio brand designed for business professionals, recently launched into the Australasian market with a brilliant range of headphones that are making voice and video calls clearer than ever before. Our pick of the range is the Adapt 360, which help reduce background noise, provide stunning voice clarity thanks to two builtin microphones, have ergonomic ear pads for extra comfort, offer 46 hours of battery life and instantly connect to Microsoft Teams. Ideal for business calls or relaxing inflight, they are priced from AU$399. eposaudio.com

03

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA’S GROWTH PLANS

Virgin Australia Group CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, has committed to rapidly growing the carrier’s network, by announcing five new routes (Sydney-Darwin, Sydney-Townsville, AdelaideCairns, Melbourne-Townsville and Perth-Cairns), and increased frequencies, adding more than 700 extra weekly flights across the airline’s domestic network by October.

“Growing confidence in the community, thanks to the vaccination rollout and domestic borders staying largely open, means the time is right for us to bring back jobs and put more aircraft in the skies,” she said. virginaustralia.com

04

ASTON MARTIN’S FIRST SUV TAKES OFF

It’s fair to say Aston Martin Lagonda’s first SUV, the DBX, was worth the wait to be launched in late 2020 – after all, it only took one of the world’s finest automakers 107 years to get into the SUV market. But it most definitely has been worth the wait because here is a stylish, practical, elegant and comfortable SUV that produces a remarkable 542bhp and can propel you to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds. Is the Aston Martin DBX the greatest SUV to ever take to the streets? Check out our review from page 92 to find out. astonmartin.com

WAYFARER 13

DEPARTURES THE HOT LIST

05

AIR NEW ZEALAND’S QUEENSLAND COMMITMENT

Air New Zealand’s new seasonal Queensland flights are moving to a year-round operation in a boost to business and leisure travel. The airline’s Chief Customer and Sales Officer, Leanne Geraghty, says the new Auckland-Cairns, AucklandSunshine Coast and Christchurch-Gold Coast routes will move to year-round thanks to an agreement with the Queensland Government. The move will see existing April through October seasonal services change to year-round flights through to May 2022. airnz.com.au

06

SOFITEL ADELAIDE READIES FOR SEPTEMBER OPENING

Leading global chain Accor has offered a sneak peek inside its hottest new Australian hotel, Sofitel Adelaide, which is set to debut in September. Accor Pacific CEO, Simon McGrath, said the highly anticipated opening of Sofitel Adelaide will mark the luxury brand’s debut in South Australia and will be the first internationally recognised five-star hotel to be built in the city in 30 years.

all.accor.com

07

HENDRICK’S NEW, MYSTERIOUS LUNAR GIN

Hendrick’s has debuted a stunning, limited release ‘Lunar’ gin, the second small-batch, limited-edition drop from Master Distiller Lesley Gracie’s ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’ collection. Gracie is known for a spot of midnight gardening and regularly tends to her blossoming collection of botanicals under the influence of the moonlight, and she says it was here one moonlit evening, whilst tending to the botanicals in her beloved hothouse, she was inspired to create this “refreshingly rich, warm, alluring gin”. hendricksgin.com

14 WAYFARER

time to indulge Taste your way around the bounty of Tasmania with Indulgence by Mövenpick, an all-inclusive escape full of local flavour.

Soak up panoramic vistas of Hobart before indulging in breakfast and dinner at Tesoro modern Italian – one of Hobart’s hottest new restaurant openings.

Savour the moment today at movenpickhotelhobart.com.au *Conditions apply. Package is subject to availability, blackout dates apply. Includes accommodation in room type of your choice (rates vary), daily breakfast & dinner (3-course menu, excluding beverages).

movenpick.com

DEPARTURES TAKE OFF

Take Off. Essential airline news, reviews and features from the across the sky.

United goes Supersonic with Boom jet order United Airlines has become the first US carrier to place an order for new Supersonic aircraft from Boom, which will dramatically cut travel times around the world.

Capable of flying at speeds of Mach 1.7 – twice the speed of today’s fastest airliners – Overture can connect more than 500 destinations in nearly half the time.

Under the terms of the agreement, United will purchase 15 of Boom’s ‘Overture’ aircraft, once Overture meets United’s demanding safety, operating and sustainability requirements, with an option for an additional 35 jets.

United CEO, Scott Kirby, said among the many potential routes for United are Newark to London in just three and a half hours, Newark to Frankfurt in four hours, San Francisco to Tokyo in six hours and Los Angeles to Sydney in less than seven hours.

He said Overture will also be designed with features such as in-seat entertainment screens, ample personal space, and contactless technology.

Kirby said working with Boom is another component of United’s strategy to invest in technologies that will build a more sustainable future of air travel.

“United continues on its trajectory to build a more innovative, sustainable airline and today’s advancements in technology are making it more viable for that to include supersonic planes,” he said.

Once operational, Overture is expected to be the first large commercial aircraft to be net-zero carbon from day one, optimized to run on 100% sustainable aviation fuel.

Overture is slated to roll out in 2025, fly in 2026 and expected to carry passengers by 2029. united.com

16 WAYFARER

United will be able to fly from Los Angeles to Sydney in under seven hours once Overture takes to the skies

TAKE OFF DEPARTURES

British Airways adds new Belfast services British Airways is launching four new domestic routes from Belfast this Northern Summer, which the carrier says is about supporting important business and tourism links between Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom.

Over the next few months, the airline will start to operate 18 flights a week with Embraer 190 jets between George Best Belfast City Airport and Exeter, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford and Newquay airports.

British Airways’ subsidiary CityFlyer will operate the routes, which will run alongside existing British Airways services between Belfast and

London City and London Heathrow airports.

CityFlyer Managing Director, Tom Stoddart, said: “We’re delighted to announce these new services from Belfast, which will enhance our regional network and maintain vital connections between Northern Ireland and other key UK destinations.

“We’re sure these routes will be popular with customers getting away for a UK holiday this summer, as well as those visiting friends and relatives, and we’ll continue to listen to their feedback about where they want to travel.” ba.com

British Airways will operate Embraer E190s on new Belfast services

Air New Zealand back to Norfolk Island until mid-2023 Air New Zealand has extended its agreement with the Australian Government to operate flights between Norfolk Island and Australia until at least the end of August 2023.

Under the agreement, Air New Zealand will, from August 30, 2021, use its A320 aircraft to operate up to three flights per week from Brisbane and three flights from Sydney.

During the pandemic, Qantas had been operating flights to Norfolk Island when Air New Zealand was unable to due to border restrictions.

Air New Zealand Chief Operating Officer, Carrie Hurihanganui, said the airline would establish a temporary pilot and cabin crew base in Brisbane until November 30 to ensure potential disruptions to the travel bubble will not affect continuity of services to Norfolk Island.

“Air New Zealand has been operating between Australia and Norfolk Island since 2012, and was the only airline operating scheduled services between Norfolk and mainland Australia during 2020,” she said.

“We know our customers value these services, and we’re thrilled to be able to resume the route from late August.” airnz.com.au

Air New Zealand is returning to Norfolk Island

WAYFARER 17

DEPARTURES TAKE OFF

Jetstar is flying to Canberra for the first time

Jetstar to launch Brisbane-Canberra flights Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has welcomed the announcement of five times weekly Jetstar flights between Brisbane and Canberra commencing September 2, 2021.

Jetstar will operate the flights with an Airbus A320, providing nearly 100,000 seats between the two cities per annum, and it will mark the first time the low-cost carrier has flown services into Australia’s Capital.

BAC CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaf, said the announcement is great news for Queensland and Brisbane, with travellers given more options than ever before to take off and enjoy Australia’s Capital.

“It is also perfect timing for Canberrans to come up north and experience sunny Brisbane and Queensland,” he said.

Jetstar Group CEO, Gareth Evans, said this is the sixth new route that Jetstar has announced in the past 12 months, with demand for low fares domestic travel continuing to grow.

“Our flights will take off in time for Floriade, helping to bring thousands of Queenslanders to one of the major festivals on Canberra’s calendar,” he said. jetstar.com

Qantas adds more Embraer 190s in expanded Alliance deal Qantas is expanding its Embraer E190 deal with Alliance Airlines that will see the Flying Kangaroo have up to 18 of the regional jets operating on its network across Australia.

Qantas Group CEO, Alan Joyce, said the expanded agreement will see the airline increase its options under this deal from 14 Embraer E190 aircraft to a total of 18.

Of this, he said, three are already flying with another five to enter service by October. The E190s will also be painted in QantasLink livery and are part of Qantas growing its domestic capacity to at least 107 per cent of pre-COVID levels in FY22.

The first of the 94-seat E190 jets started flying on the QantasLink network in May and the jet’s five-hour range makes it well suited to linking regional centres with smaller capital cities, according to Joyce.

“Its size, range and economics have already let us start seven new routes that wouldn’t have worked with our existing fleet,” he said.

The introduction of E190s, Joyce said, also frees up Qantas’ Boeing 737 aircraft to be redeployed across the domestic network, enabling the airline to launch a number of new routes and add frequencies on existing ones. qantas.com

Qantas is adding more Embraer jets 18 WAYFARER

Jetblue’s new, game-changing ‘Mint Studio’ suite

TAKE OFF DEPARTURES

JetBlue’s stunning new Mint Suites JetBlue is readying for London flights and upping the ante on trans-continental US travel with the launch of a new suite product that’s firmly a game changer.

The launch sees the creation of a Mint Suite, complete with sliding doors, and a Mint Studio product that will offer room for both working and relaxing.

It’s the latest evolution of JetBlue’s Mint product that debuted onboard the airline’s Airbus A320 and A321 fleet in 2014 and one of the hottest products the US market has ever seen.

JetBlue’s A320 and A321s will be kitted out with up to 24 private suites for trans-Continental and services to London, which debut this Northern Summer.

Alongside a sliding door for every Mint customer, the 24 suites will feature a custom-designed seat cushion by Tuft and Needle and “countless design touches that help every customer feel at home in the air”, according to the airline.

JetBlue says the 24-suite layout will be used for London flights and a 16-suite layout will debut on a “limited number of flights between New York and Los Angeles in 2021”.

Features include a tilting 17-inch Thales Avant seatback screen, wireless charging capabilities, an integrated phone ledge for multitasking, and easy-to-reach in-seat power, as well as laptop, shoes and handbag stowage.

When it comes to the pinnacle onboard, the new Mint Studio will be a game-changer for JetBlue.

The airline says each aircraft will have two Mint Studios in the first row, providing room for working or relaxing, and featuring a 22-inch tilting Thales Avant seatback screen, an extra side table for added productivity, and a guest seat that can accommodate an additional Mint customer during flight at cruising altitude. jetblue.com

Virgin Australia’s free flights for jabs Virgin Australia and Velocity Frequent Flyer are incentivising Australians to get vaccinated against COVID-19 though a national competition called 'VA-X and Win'.

Adult residents of Australia are eligible to enter the competition and can win millions of Velocity Frequent Flyer Points and dozens of free Business Class flights for simply getting the jab.

A Virgin Australia Group spokesperson said many more exciting prizes will be announced when the competition opens, which the airline anticipates will be later this year.

“For simply rolling-up your sleeve and getting a COVID-19 vaccination, you could walk away with a share in tens of thousands of dollars of Virgin Australia and Velocity Frequent Flyer prizes or be the lucky one to become a Velocity Points millionaire,” they said.

“The sooner all Australians are vaccinated, the sooner our most vulnerable members of society will be protected.” virginaustralia.com

By getting a vaccine, you could win free Virgin Australia flights

WAYFARER 19

DEPARTURES TAKE OFF

Qatar Airways’ suite debut Qatar Airways has debuted an all-new Business Class Suite aboard the first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in the fleet and once again it ups the ante for the Doha-based carrier.

K

nown for pushing the boundaries when it comes to luxury onboard offerings, Qatar Airways has again raised the bar in Business Class, with the launch of an all-new suite product on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

The 787-9 made its debut for Qatar Airways on June 25, 2021, on a flight from Doha to Milan, which was rather appropriate given the new jet was kitted out with the new luxurious and stylish cabin.

Qatar Airways’ new Business Class cabin has seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configurated herringbone pattern, giving each passenger all-aisle access, while also extra privacy thanks to sliding doors for each suite.

The new Adient Ascent Business Class seats transform into a 79-inch fully-flat bed, ideal for the myriad of mediumand long-range flights the 787-9 will operate, while also offering space aplenty for working and relaxing.

They are also loaded-up with a ton of brilliant features, including a dedicated phone holder, equipped with wireless charging technology that is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android devices.

As expected with all Qatar Airways flights, the new cabin will be highlighted by a wide selection of international cuisine, food and beverages, as well as healthy vegan meal options that are a part of Qatar Airways’ à la carte dine-on-demand menu.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Akbar Al-Baker, said: “In-line with our commitment to offering our passengers an unparalleled travel experience, we are 20 WAYFARER

pleased to introduce this much-anticipated Business Class Suite on Qatar Airways’ newest wide-body aircraft, the Boeing 787-9 which will debut onto a number of key routes within our network.

“The new Business Class Suite sets yet another industry standard with a uniquely private experience for premium passengers travelling with us, which is becoming increasingly valuable during this pandemic, while showcasing Qatar Airways’ 5-star standards of excellence and Qatari hospitality that are quintessential on all of our flights.”

Initial routes for the new 311-seat Boeing 787-9 include services from Doha to Athens, Barcelona, Dammam, Karachi, Kuala Lumpur, Madrid and Milan. qatarairways.com

Qatar Airways’ new Business Cabin and Suite (above)

A little hotel, a lot of awards.

2021 Top 25 Trip Advisor Hottest New Hotels in the World 2021 Award for Commercial Architecture – Architecture NSW Awards 2021 Best New Build Property Hotel Design – Paul Davis Hotel Design Awards

Little National Sydney rises above Wynyard Walk, moments from everything that defines the city. Connected to Sydney’s iconic attractions via undercover pathways, enjoy easy access to Barangaroo, Martin Place, and the CBD. Book direct from $209 per night* 26 Clarence Street Sydney 2000 NSW littlenationalhotel.com.au

*Per room. Subject to availability — a DOMA Hotel

Virgin Australia is raising the bar in Business Class

TAKE OFF DEPARTURES

Virgin’s new inflight delights There are a range of sumptuous new meals in the Business and Economy Class cabins onboard Virgin Australia, thanks to a full refresh of the inflight menus.

James Wilkinson finds out more.

V

irgin Australia has rolledout new onboard menus for both Business and Economy Class cabins, which CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, said is about giving customers more choice and better value.

The menus include a new fresh Business Class menu and a buy onboard offering for Economy Class featuring snacks and drinks.

Hrdlicka said that many months had been spent developing the new onboard experience following extensive customer research.

“We’re continuing to write a new chapter at Virgin Australia and we’re incredibly focused on creating great experiences for our guests,” she said.

“We’ve delivered an exceptional Business Class product and more choice and value for Economy guests that we know they’re going to love,” Hrdlicka said.

She said Business Class dishes include a range of hot meals, healthy salads and Australian classics, served on tableware, including crockery, glassware and cutlery, providing a quality in-flight experience and further reducing singleuse packaging as part of the airline’s continued commitment to sustainability.

“Our new Business Class menu and service design is high quality, relaxed, uncomplicated and exactly what our guests and team members have told us they want. I’m really proud of what we’ve delivered,” Hrdlicka said.

“The launch of our new Business Class food experience, and a commitment to reduce airfares even further by the middle of this year, is a really great example of just how irresistible it is to fly with Virgin Australia.”

On the Economy Class front, she said the menu features the carrier's most popular snack and beverage items, including cheese and crackers and Australian wine, before a greater range of menu items are introduced later in the year when travel demand is expected to resume to near preCOVID levels.

“Today’s customers are more conscious about what they consume than ever before,” Hrdlicka said. “We like to choose what we eat and what we drink throughout the day – we are simply extending that choice onboard as well.

“By removing snacks that aren’t valued by our guests we’re able to structurally reduce airfares making it even cheaper to fly.

“We’ll continue to offer complimentary tea, coffee and water on all flights and the opportunity for guests to purchase their favourite menu items at a reasonable price,” she said.

Virgin Australia General Manager Product and Customer, Sarah Adam, said the new Business Class menu had been designed with altitude in mind.

“It’s well known that when you’re high above the clouds you lose some sense of taste and smell so this was a really important factor in designing the new menu so our food not only looks great but tastes great in the air,” she said.

“We’ve really dialled-up the flavours in the food with the right seasoning and textures to provide a very competitive Business Class experience for domestic travel in Australia.

“Supporting Australian farmers and producers was another important factor in designing the menu so we’ll have seasonal Australian produce from local producers in dishes throughout the year,” Adam said.

The roll-out of the new menus followed the reopening of all seven Virgin Australia domestic Lounges, including a new-look Lounge of the future in Adelaide and a flexible booking policy until January 31, 2022. virginaustralia.com

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DEPARTURES TAKE OFF

Qantas' international lounges in Brisbane and London (right)

Bonjour, Qantas Qantas and French hotel giant Accor have signed a new seven-year agreement for the global hospitality group to continue management of the airline's world-class lounges in Australia and across the globe.

24 WAYFARER

TAKE OFF DEPARTURES

T

he Flying Kangaroo has signed an extension of its 14-year partnership with Accor, with their team of hospitality professionals providing Qantas customers with world-class service across the airline’s network of domestic and international lounges.

Qantas Group CEO, Alan Joyce, said the renewed agreement highlights the airline’s commitment to maintaining a premium travel experience for its customers across every part of their journey.

“As our customers step back into our lounges for the first time in over a year, they will continue to receive the exceptional service they have been accustomed to from the Qantas and Accor teams,” he said.

“Many of our frequent flyers who travel through the lounges regularly are like family to the Qantas and Accor team members who take great pride in knowing their coffee or wine preferences, family members names, birthdays and anniversaries.”

Accor Pacific CEO, Simon McGrath, said the continued partnership between Accor and Qantas would bring significant benefits for customers.

“Customers will continue to enjoy an unrivalled standard of service from our two much-loved brands,” he said.

“In Qantas we have an innovative tourism leader at our side; together we share a commitment to creating exceptional and memorable travel experiences on land and in the air.”

Accor began managing the Qantas lounges in 2007 when the airline opened its flagship International First lounges in Australia, followed by the Domestic Business lounges, Chairman’s Lounges and Qantas Clubs in 2013.

The announcement coincided with Qantas’ reopening of its award-winning First lounges in Australia in line with the launch of the two-way trans-Tasman travel bubble in mid-April.

While normally reserved for Platinum Frequent Flyers, Qantas has extended an invitation to customers travelling in Business, Gold Frequent Flyers and Qantas Club members to visit the First Lounge until the neighbouring Business lounges reopen.

With Qantas’ lounges in New Zealand currently closed, Qantas will also offer Platinum and Gold Frequent Flyers and Qantas Club members access to Air New Zealand lounges in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.

First Lounge customers will be offered an a la carte dining experience designed by Neil Perry featuring some of the most popular menu items such as salt and pepper squid with green chilli dipping sauce, healthy bircher muesli for breakfast and the signature pavlova, as well as menu highlights from other Qantas lounges.

Joyce said reopening three of its flagship international lounges was a key milestone in the national carrier’s recovery.

“If you’re making a comeback, you should do it in style.

That’s why we’ve decided to open our First lounges ahead of our other lounges and give more of our customers the opportunity to experience them,” he said.

“Our lounges are a second home for many frequent flyers when they’re on the road and we know their re-opening will be well received.”

Qantas has reopened nearly all of its 35 Qantas Club and Business lounges across Australia as well as its Chairman’s lounges.

Joyce said the company will open the remainder of its international lounges in Australia and overseas in line with the broader reopening of international borders and recommencement of the rest of Qantas’ international network. qantas.com

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce and Accor Pacific CEO Simon McGrath

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Room Key. The latest hotel news, reviews and interviews from across the world.

Kingsford The Barossa’s spectacular debut Luxury retreat Kingsford The Barossa has made a stunning debut in South Australia’s most iconic wine region.

Over the past three years, the luxury property, centred around a Homestead that dates back to 1856, underwent an incredible transformation by passionate owners Stefan and Leanne Ahrens.

There are 16 luxurious rooms and suites to choose from as well as three bars and a restaurant, and Stefan said there are plans for the impressive cellar, that is already well-stocked, to become home to the best Shiraz collection in the Barossa “and more widely, the world”. kingsfordbarossa.com.au

ROOM KEY DEPARTURES

Mövenpick hotels set to call Melbourne home Set to be popular: Quest Takapuna

Quest adds seven more hotels in New Zealand Leading accommodation operator Quest Apartment Hotels has confirmed it will open seven new properties in New Zealand between now and July 2022.

Located across the North and South Island in metropolitan, regional, and suburban locations, the new sites will take the existing New Zealand portfolio to 42, and Quest’s global footprint to 177.

“Our expansion in New Zealand reflects a long-running commitment to growth in areas where the corporate traveller needs to be, and in this instance, demand has only increased due to the current landscape,” said Quest Apartment Hotels Managing Director, David Mansfield.

Quest Takapuna, a 51-room hotel on the North Shore of Auckland, will lead the busy program, opening its doors in mid-2021, followed by the opening of Quest Mt Eden in September, Quest Queenstown in October, and Quest on Cambridge in Christchurch in November.

In 2022, Quest 256 Lambton in Wellington will open in February, Quest Hastings in June and Quest Mt Maunganui in July.

Quest first expanded onto the New Zealand market in 1998 and is now the largest single hotel brand in the country. questapartments.com.au

Accor is readying to open Australia’s second Mövenpick hotel in the heart of Melbourne’s central business district.

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne (above) on Spencer will be located at the meeting point of the city’s bustling Spencer and Bourke Streets and the 172-room premium hotel promises to indulge and delight guests with its contemporary design and boutique interiors.

There will be a dedicated cafe serving the brand’s signature ice cream, an exotic blend of modern South East Asian cuisine at Miss Mi restaurant and bar, a daily Chocolate Hour, 25-metre swimming pool, sauna, wellequipped gym and a boardroom.

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer will form the six-level podium of the striking 78-storey Premier Tower development.

“We’re delighted to be bringing the Mövenpick hotel brand to Melbourne,” said Accor Pacific CEO, Simon McGrath.

“This investment will benefit the local community by providing a choice of even greater accommodation options for visitors to the city and for Accor loyalty guests.

“The city of Melbourne is the perfect location for a Mövenpick hotel, enriching Melbourne’s incredible culinary scene with an outstanding restaurant and bar, and masterfully blending the brand’s Swiss heritage with a top-quality hospitality experience,” he said.

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer is the second Mövenpick hotel in Australia and follows the success of Mövenpick Hotel Hobart, which opened in January 2021. all.accor.com WAYFARER 27

DEPARTURES ROOM KEY

Now open: Parkroyal Monash Melbourne

Melbourne’s Monash gets a Parkroyal hotel Pan Pacific Hotels Group has added a new Parkroyal property in the south east Melbourne suburb of Monash, with the establishment officially opening its doors recently.

The 250-room hotel is based within the vibrant M-City complex in Clayton and Parkroyal Monash Melbourne’s location makes it the perfect base for leisure travellers visiting from regional Victoria, Melbourne locals looking for a staycation, as well as business travellers seeking 24-hour high-quality service after a busy workday.

Parkroyal Monash Melbourne General Manager, Darryl Healey, said the opening is an exciting development for the South East suburbs of Melbourne.

“Parkroyal Monash Melbourne will provide something exciting and different for the destination, serving up a full-service upscale hotel experience differentiated by its signature warm approachable service, combined with all the conveniences of a multi-use complex,” he said. panpacific.com

Kimpton to make stylish Australian debut in Sydney After years of anticipation, Kimpton Hotels will finally arrive in Australia in 2021, with IHG Hotels and Resorts and Pro-invest Group planning to convert and reposition Sydney’s Primus Hotel as Kimpton Sydney.

The existing Primus Hotel is a heritage-listed 1930s Art Deco revival of inter-war period architecture, with history as the former Sydney Water Board Offices.

The current hotel will close in August to undergo an inspiring renovation, drawing out the true beauty of its bold design, iconic red columns and boutique luxury personality.

When Kimpton Sydney opens in October, Pro-invest CEO Jan Smits said it will feature 172 unique design- led rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, conference and event spaces conveniently nestled close to the city’s best entertainment, culture and retail.

“While we are still working through the details, I can say that we will have an array of grand yet welcoming spaces for all occasions,” he told Wayfarer.

“A vibrant mix of energies, drawing from the nightlife of neighboring Chinatown and Darlinghurst, blended with the independent spirit of nearby Surry Hills. We will be creating a social epicenter for guests and locals alike." ihg.com 28 WAYFARER

Kimpton Sydney is coming soon

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We fly to bring hope. We fly to bring comfort. We fly because people need to get home and life-saving equipment needs to get to the lives that need saving. We fly for the same reason we always have and always will...you.

American Airlines and the Flight Symbol logo are marks of American Airlines, Inc. oneworld is a mark of the oneworld Alliance, LLC. © 2021 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.

DEPARTURES ROOM KEY

The Standard Hotel brand is heading to Melbourne

Global lifestyle brand The Standard to open in Melbourne’s Fitzroy Private Melbourne developer, DealCorp, has announced its latest partnership which will see global lifestyle powerhouse brand The Standard Hotel open its first Australian location in Rose Street, Fitzroy.

The Standard, Fitzroy, will feature 127 rooms over seven levels including an intimate rooftop experience.

The Standard’s unique style of hospitality, defined by compelling design, and engaging culinary and cultural experiences will complement Fitzroy’s bustling creative community, surrounded by hip bars, cafes, restaurants, art galleries and shops.

“We couldn’t be happier to be bringing this iconic brand to Australian shores, With the country’s focus turning to a postCOVID era, this feels like a pivotal moment for hotel and travel,” said DealCorp Executive Chairman, David Kobritz.

Standard International CEO, Amar Lalvani, said: “The Fitzroy neighborhood in Melbourne represents exciting new territory for The Standard but at the same time feels totally familiar.”

The hotel’s design will take cues from Fitzroy’s industrial heritage, whilst also being respectful of its residential surrounds. standardhotels.com

Sydney’s Parramatta to get an InterContinental hotel The world’s largest luxury hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, is set to arrive in Greater Western Sydney with the opening of InterContinental Parramatta.

Scheduled to open in 2025, the impressive, new-build InterContinental Parramatta will be part of a vibrant mixeduse development that also includes offices and a ground floor retail precinct.

The building itself will be one of the most exciting high-rises to grace the city’s skyline, with the owners in the process of running an architectural competition to find a winning design.

The state-of-the-art hotel will deliver on the brand’s signature 'InterContinental Life' concept – where glamour and the exhilaration of fascinating places is mixed with international know-how and local cultural wisdom.

It will feature 200 guestrooms, a restaurant and rooftop bar, Club Lounge, pool, gym, wellness centre and more than 900sqm of meeting space. With IHG’s responsible business approach at its heart, it will be built to the highest green-rating standard.

Hot on the heels of IHG’s recent announcement that InterContinental Sorrento will open later this year on the Mornington Peninsula, InterContinental Parramatta will be the 11th InterContinental Hotel in Australasia and will join awardwinning InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, along with InterContinental hotels in Sydney CBD and Double Bay, Perth, Sanctuary Cove, Melbourne, Adelaide, Wellington and Fiji. ihg.com 30 WAYFARER

InterContinental is set to open in Parramatta

Remember Why There’s a place where you can reconnect with what matters to you most. A place where you’ll find the time and space to remember your why.

Visit hamiltonisland.com.au

DEPARTURES ROOM KEY

National AMBITIONS

Little National Sydney made a stunning arrival

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From humble beginnings in the nation’s capital to developing new properties in Newcastle, Sydney and soon, across the country, Jure Domazet’s Doma Group has been a rising star in the Australian hotel industry. James Wilkinson caught-up with the Chief Executive and passionate hotelier to find out more.

Doma Group Founder and CEO, Jure Domazet

T

he Little National Hotel brand has had quite meteoric rise in Australia in recent years. Owned

by Doma Group, the brand has grown from one property in Canberra to a second in Sydney, soon a third in Newcastle and if CEO and Founder, Jure Domazet, has his way, there will be Little Nationals right across the nation.

Jure, it’s an exciting time for Doma Group at present isn’t it, with Little National Sydney now open and Newcastle coming next?

Last year posed some serious challenges in the hotel industry, but a great highlight for us was the opening of Little National Hotel in Sydney. A lot of time, consideration and capital went into this project and we are super happy with the outcome. Often from the time of purchase through to the completion of construction a lot of changes occur and sometimes an opportunity may have been missed.

I remember walking through it three weeks before it was finished and was actually blown away by how well it presented. Bates Smart and Hutchies did a fantastic job in delivering our vision and there really is not a thing we >> WAYFARER 33

DEPARTURES ROOM KEY

Little National Sydney (and below, right) is located above Wynyard Station

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would change, which is pleasing. The hotel has been well received by the staff and our guests and we look forward to a bright future in this prime Sydney CBD location as business returns. We have made our way into the top five hotels in Sydney on TripAdvisor, which is testament to the customercentric focus of this hotel brand.

Doma has a had a presence in Newcastle for over eight years with developments across a number of residential, commercial and soon to be hotel projects. We had originally started work on the hotel, which was to feature 60 serviced apartments, but felt that we had the design wrong and the DNA of the hotel was not represented in the plan. We now have a mix of office and hotel and are really pleased with the way that they will interact. We plan to commence construction in 2021 with the office in Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and the hotel as a modular build. It makes it pretty complex, but we are using this opportunity to gain intelligence for easier deployment of the hotel brand in other locations. The wait will be worth it as the new hotel will be an excellent addition to the Newcastle hotel scene.

After the Newcastle project opens, what’s next in the future hotel pipeline for you?

Leaving office and residential development aside, we continue to assess opportunities for other cities. The Little National Hotel brand is very focused on location and with the work we have done over the years, we know exactly where we need our new hotels to be – in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide. We expect to convert some site acquisitions this year.

We are continuing our work on keeping sustainability and technology at the forefront of our developments and refurbishments as these are so important now for our customers. We have also been upgrading and repositioning our restaurants and bars in Canberra and this will be complete by the end of the year. We think that the success of this has led the strong recovery that we have experienced in Canberra.

You’re bullish on coastal towns in New South Wales for good reason, given the lack of supply and significant demand for decent properties. Tell us about that.

It has taken me quite extensive overseas travel to actually accept that we have a pretty great coastline that is extremely accessible, particularly in NSW. However, we don’t have the iconic ‘must-do’ drive that domestic and international tourists want to do, with only isolated properties attracting any kind of attention. However, each town has at least one or two great dining or drinking experiences, hikes, surf breaks, rides or climbs that can fill a short trip.

I would love to think that we, with others, can stitch together a great road trip from Eden to Byron Bay and have people really experience this coastline, and the hinterland along the way. With two hours of driving and charging stations at each destination, with the right promotion it can become a must-do for all travellers. COVID-19 has forced Australians to experience some of these and, while Australia is traditionally expensive, I still think we can put together a compelling drive holiday for all budgets by bringing these things together.

We have a foothold in Jervis Bay with the Huskisson Hotel, but construction will start in the next 12 months on a beautiful boutique hotel just up the road from there with an amazing F&B offering that also has function space. We are currently working on two more sites north of Sydney to continue this vision and hope we can announce these in the coming months.

Where do you see the business in 10 years? How many properties could you see being owned and/or operated

by Doma Group?

Although we are excited by the regional opportunities, the Little National Hotel roll out remains our main focus with respect to hotels. Over the next decade, we will have hotels in each major city (with multiple sites in some cities). There is also an appetite to take this brand internationally and we consider the Sydney hotel to be the launching point for this.

It is a large vision and we have been already approached by potential investors and at some point, we may take these along with us on our journey. domahotels.com.au WAYFARER 35

Thanks to epic local produce, stunning Māori artworks and some of the largest hotel rooms in New Zealand, Park Hyatt Auckland’s debut is one of the best the brand has ever seen, anywhere in the world.

James Wilkinson checks-in.

ROOM KEY DEPARTURES

A

uckland certainly captured the world’s attention earlier this year when the City of Sails played host to the 36th America’s Cup. The event won by Emirates Team New Zealand was watched by an estimated global audience of over 940 million people and it showcased just how spectacular the largest city in Aotearoa can be.

A lot of the attention was based around the Viaduct Basin, home to the Emirates Team New Zealand base and some of the best hotels in the nation, including the brand new, NZ$350 million Park Hyatt, which made a stunning debut last September.

The 195-room waterfront hotel features some of the largest rooms and suites in New Zealand, as well as being home to four restaurants and bars, a day spa and fitness centre and several versatile event spaces.

It has been a brilliant return to New Zealand for the Hyatt chain and a spectacular debut for the luxurious Park Hyatt brand in the country – one that’s perhaps better than many people expected.

Here, the photos quite simply do not do this hotel justice. From the largest and most spacious lobby of any hotel in the country to the brilliant food at Onemata, the rum cocktails at Captain’s Bar, the amazing Māori artworks and sculptures in the hotel and the luxurious furnishings in the rooms, there is an incredible wow factor at this property.

“Discerning domestic travellers as well as the local community can expect a host of exciting gastronomic delights and rare culinary moments, delivered with intuitive personalised service,” says Park Hyatt Auckland’s General Manager, Brett Sweetman, who has been with the property for almost three years now, well before the doors swung open last September.

“We have introduced the exceptional service that the Park Hyatt brand is renowned for in this dynamic city as the domestic tourism industry in New Zealand evolves in this new era of travel,” he says.

One of the most exciting aspects of the property is Māori influence in the design and art, which Sweetman says was >>

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Park Hyatt Auckland features brilliant bars and restaurants and stunning Māori artworks

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to reflect being in a Māori wharenui (house), a place of gathering that brings families and communities together.

“A wharenui is fundamental to Māori life and stands as the beating heart of Māori culture,” he says.

“The exterior of the hotel centres on the notion of a Māori cloak around the building, creating a double skin offering warmth, privacy and beauty.”

He says the hotel’s interior designers, UK-based Conran and Partners, worked closely with local Iwi to feature traditional Māori artworks, while native Totara Pouwhenua (carvings) line the entrances to welcome guests into the hotel.

“Park Hyatt Auckland incorporates much from New Zealand’s Māori culture including artworks and design features to create an intimate environment that is both beautifully stylish and welcoming,” he says.

Right across the property, you’ll find space aplenty in all of the rooms and suites on offer. They range in size from the 47 square metre rooms – “almost double the size of comparable rooms in the city,” Sweetman says – to the 245 square metre Presidential Suite and all feature Māori accents, custom-designed tukutuku panels and rugs, made from New Zealand wool.

He says the 23 suites, some of the most impressive in New Zealand, offer commanding views with the Presidential Suite positioned on the rooftop, featuring an internal garden and a large 125 square metre terrace to entertain and soak up the spectacular panoramic views across to the city.

Each of the rooms have spacious living areas, floor-toceiling windows – the majority of which have views of Lighter Quay or the harbour – alongside marble bathrooms with a separate walk-in shower and deep-soaking bath, walk-in wardrobe, and some with an outdoor terrace.

In the bathrooms, also find luxurious, plant-based and cruelty-free products by cult New York perfumer Le Labo.

Off the lobby, the Park Hyatt Auckland offers several exciting food and beverage experiences, in the form of signature restaurant Onemata, the nautical-themed Captain’s Bar, all day dining venue the Living Room and grab-and-go offering the Pantry. >>

MEET THE CHEF Onemata’s Brent Martin Brent Martin is originally a New Zealander who has returned home after an illustrious career spanning six countries over 20 years, managing restaurants in some of the world’s top hotels.

A particular momentous occasion was when Chef Martin received the James Beard Award nomination for ‘Best Chef of the Southeast and Caribbean’ when working as Chef de Cuisine at Hyatt Regency Grand Cayman.

While serving on some of Hyatt’s most prestigious hotels Martin has had the opportunity to cook for some very influential people, including Royals and prestigious politicians.

In the United States, Martin also worked closely alongside New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, becoming an ambassador for popular kiwi brands such as Antipodes Water, Ora King Salmon and Kapiti Cheese. onematarestaurant.co.nz

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Expect stylish rooms, suites and restaurants at Park Hyatt Auckland

Leading the way, Onemata, which means rich fertile soil, reflects Park Hyatt Auckland’s commitment to thoughtfully sourcing ingredients and showcasing local suppliers and culinary artisans, according to Executive Chef Brent Martin.

“Kaitiakitanga, the preservation and guardianship of New Zealand’s environment, sits at the heart of making decisions for Onemata and the food we serve,” he says.

“We are proud to showcase what New Zealand has to offer and support these local producers.

“Small scale, natural production of these products allows complete focus on perfecting these ingredients, which make up the simple, sustainable foods served in Onemata,” Martin says.

Expect a menu that features a number of brilliant dishes, from the Tuna Tataki, Ōra King Salmon Fillet and Salmon Poké to the sumptuous Hawkes Bay Lamb Ribs, Paua Risotto and amazing cheeses from Clevedon Buffalo Dairy.

“Hand selecting only the freshest and most premium ingredients puts our local suppliers at the cornerstone of every dish,” he says.

“At Onemata, we welcome you into our kitchen to connect with our wider family and experience the level of care and consideration that goes into every meal.

“Stories from our farmers, fisherman and butchers that Onemata shares with you right at your table.

“Our team have travelled the country, to find the creamiest buffalo cheese right here in neighbouring Clevedon, all the way down to Stewart Island to source the country’s finest freshly caught salmon,” Martin says.

Before or after an experience at Onemata, cocktails and sipping rums are the order of the day at Captain’s Bar, which 40 WAYFARER

offers a stylish and comfortable interior outdoor deck chairs adjacent to the harbour’s multi-million-dollar yachts.

Here you’ll find one of the largest rum selections in New Zealand with 55 on offer – including our favourites the Diplomático Mantuano from Venezuela, El Dorado 12-yearold from Guyana and Plantation Pineapple from Barbados – alongside a classic and modern cocktail list, craft beers, wines by the glass and a selection of bar snacks, including an impressive tropical prawn ceviche.

“We have created something truly special, (particularly) our food and beverage offerings in our waterfront surroundings alongside the standout views,” Sweetman says.

Rounding out the experience, Park Hyatt Auckland is also home to a day spa and 1200 square metres of versatile event spaces, including a rooftop venue, Waka. hyatt.com

GETTING TO AUCKLAND Qantas flies to Auckland, New Zealand from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne and Sydney, with many capital city flights operated by widebody Airbus A330 aircraft that feature the airline’s signature suite-style Business Class seats that can be reclined for take-off and landing, fantastic meals, premium Australian wines and one of the best in-flight entertainment systems in the sky. Head to Qantas’ impressive lounges before departure from Australia for world-class dining, a glass of Champagne, a flat white or a signature Negroni. qantas.com

TAG TAG

“We have introduced the exceptional service that the Park Hyatt brand is renowned for.”

Park Hyatt Auckland General Manager, Brett Sweetman

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Kingsley’s arrival Crystalbrook Collection has opened the doors to the chain’s most exciting addition to date, Crystalbrook Kingsley in the New South Wales regional city of Newcastle.

Crystalbrook Kingsley has made a stylish arrival in Newcastle, New South Wales (and right) 42 WAYFARER

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S

ituated in the heart of Newcastle, opposite Civic Park, Crystalbrook Kingsley transforms the city’s former Council Administration Centre, locally known as the Roundhouse, into an elegant and sophisticated 130 room five-star hotel, according to Crystalbrook Collection CEO, Geoff York.

“It’s been an extremely fulfilling two and a half years, collaborating with architects, interior designers and sustainability specialists to get us to today,” he told Wayfarer.

“When it comes to personality, we had a natural fit. We’ve been able to embrace everything exceptional about the history of the building, the history of Newcastle – and the Newcastle of today and tomorrow to create a ‘Culturally Connected’ personality, rich in detail,” he said.

York said being able to breathe life into an iconic Newcastle building has given the hotel tons of character while also being sustainable as much as possible.

“We love that from an environmental stance, we were able to give a new lease of life to this iconic building,” he said.

“With our ongoing commitment to sustainability, we are continually seeking ways to avoid single-use of anything.

“Here we have world-class Modernist, Brutalist architecture that we could embrace and add longevity to… it is a wonderful win for sustainability,” York said.

The multimillion-dollar redevelopment preserves the original façade of the Roundhouse building and adds a plush interior inspired by Newcastle’s coal mining past, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and ground level café.

Destinations in themselves, the rooftop bar and restaurant, named Romberg’s and Roundhouse respectively, in tribute to the building’s architectural history, boast breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.

Full-grown olive trees at Roundhouse restaurant create a natural canopy of stippled shade over tables throughout the day affording guests the experience of dining in a curated orchard. On top of that, 80% of produce served is grown within a three-hour radius of the hotel.

In an Australian first, Crystalbrook Kingsley will have 100% waste-free bathrooms, with all bathroom amenities biodegradable or recyclable. Other sustainable initiatives include the use of upcycled and recycled material in construction, a single-use plastic-free environment, keyless room access, and paperless check-in and check-out.

York said Crystalbrook Collection was also able to recycle the vast majority of internal materials that needed to be removed in the transformation.

The property also has a major focus on featuring the latest in-room technology.

“Implementing best in class technology was of vital importance,” he told Wayfarer. “All rooms and suites come equipped with tablet control centres, Staycast by Google for video streaming, and access to hundreds of recent release complimentary movies.”

Crystalbrook Kingsley is led by General Manager, Carl Taranto, who said the property “is truly a transformative moment for the city of Newcastle”.

“The opening coincides with an explosion of interest in the Hunter Region just two-hours north of Sydney,” he said.

“We look forward to showing visitors to Crystalbrook Kingsley – in the design and personality of the hotel, as well as the restaurant, bar and café offering – what Newcastle is all about: vibrant energy and nostalgia in one moment.” crystalbrookcollection.com

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DEPARTURES APPETITE

Appetite.

Hot tables, bars and drinks brands from across the world.

Kitchens on Kent is back The Langham, Sydney’s luxe buffet Kitchens on Kent is now open again seven days a week.

The hotel’s F&B Manager, Eric Lo, says it’s the same buffet that everyone knows and loves but with the re-opening, the experience has been truly elevated.

“Whilst we’re a buffet restaurant, we want our guests to have the chance to sit together in a civilised setting and enjoy each other’s company,” he says. “This can be challenging when you’re up and down and back-wards and forwards to the openkitchens… that’s why we’ve incorporated culinary options that are brought straight to the table.”

Kitchens on Kent serves dinner every day (5.30pm – 10pm) for AU$130pp on weekdays and AU$148pp on weekends. Lunch is open from Friday to Sunday (12pm – 2pm) for AU$130pp and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks are included. kitchensonkent.com

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Cocktail list

01

02

The Balvenie

One of Wayfarer‘s top single malts is The Balvenie and while it is always best enjoyed neat, it also forms the base of some delicious cocktails, including these three.

01. COLD FASHIONED

Glass: Double rocks Ingredients: 30ml The Balvenie Double Wood 12 Year Old 30ml Mr Black or coffee liqueur equivalent Method: Stir down over ice in a double rocks glass Garnish: A generous slice of orange zest

02. BALVENIE ROB ROY

Glass: Cocktail Ingredients: 50ml The Balvenie Double Wood 12YO 25ml Sweet vermouth Dash of bitters Method: Stir over ice and strain into a cocktail glass Garnish: Maraschino cherry

03. BALVENIE BALLERMAKER

(A twist on the classic boilermaker) Glass: Tumbler & Champagne flute Ingredients: 30ml The Balvenie 12 year old Sweet Toast of American Oak Flute of ice cold Ruinart Champagne Method: Pour straight up

03

Wolf Blass’ latest Luxury Collection wines

Wolf Blass' winemaking team

Leading Australian brand Wolf Blass has released its new, exceptional Luxury Collection wines for 2021.

Consisting of six wines across three tiers, Wolf Blass Chief Winemaker, Chris Hatcher, believes this year’s outstanding portfolio of wines represents Australian winemaking at its very best.

“The 2021 Luxury Release offers a collection of wines that demonstrate the ongoing passion, skill, creativity and dedication of our viticulture and winemaking teams,” he says.

“Evident in every bottle, the wines honour the values of quality, character and consistency first established by Wolfgang in 1966.”

The wines that form part of the 2021 Collection are: Grey Label Adelaide Hills Chardonnay 2019 ($30); Grey Label McLaren Vale Shiraz 2019 ($45); Grey Label Langhorne Creek Cabernet Shiraz 2019 ($45); Black Label Barossa, Langhorne Creek, McLaren Vale Cabernet Shiraz 2018 ($130); Platinum Label Medlands Vineyard, Barossa Valley Shiraz 2018 ($200); and Platinum Label Medlands Vineyard, Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 ($200) wolfblass.com

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DEPARTURES APPETITE

There’s a hot new eatery in Melbourne’s South Yarra and it carries the eclectic flair and vibe of the brilliant new Ovolo hotel it’s located in. What can you expect at Lona Misa? James Wilkinson finds out.

W

hen Ovolo South Yarra officially opened in Melbourne’s fashionable suburb in April, all eyes were on two things – the designer rooms and the brilliant food and beverage on offer.

Here, the headline act is firmly Lona Misa Bar and Kitchen, South Yarra’s only true plant-based restaurant and bar, which has been brought to life thanks to a collaboration between Creative Culinary Partners and Melbourne hospitality legends Shannon Martinez (Smith and Daughters) and Ian Curley (French Saloon and Kirk’s Wine Bar), and Ovolo Hotels.

In this 90-seat eatery, expect a lively Latin dining experience that boasts a heavily vegan menu with vegetarian options, in a setting designed by the awardwinning Rachel Luchetti that features renaissance inspired art and quintessential chequered diner flooring.

Martinez says there’s a strong focus on local produce and the freshest ingredients and the menus have been created to showcase a zero waste and sustainable approach where possible.

She says it leverages Curley’s farm-to-table experience whilst paying homage to her Latin roots through vegan and vegetarian dishes.

“Lona Misa is bougie vegan dining,” Martinez says. “Whilst the menu might be vegan and vegetarian, the dishes are still delicious as ever, replicating meat-based flavour profiles through texture and taste.

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“I was based south-side over eight years ago when I worked at Sweetwater and since I’ve left, there hasn’t been any vegan places, so we wanted to bring a strong offering for all to enjoy,” she says.

Lona Misa’s menus change depending on the time of day – it swings from daytime café to restaurant and wine bar – and the all-day menu is made up of snacks, small plates, big plates and sides.

“There’s an entire section dedicated to The Josper, an innovative Spanish oven that grills over charcoal at a very high heat,” Martinez says, adding Lona Misa is the only plant-based restaurant to be using such a technique.

Things kick off here with one of Melbourne’s most exciting breakfast menus, a delight for guests staying in-house.

Look out for The Full Spanish (wedge of tortilla, sofrito braised with beans, eggs your way, greens, marinated goats curd and served with pan con tomate); Huevos Rancheros (crispy corn tortillas, refried beans, fried eggs salsa roja, queso fresca) and the Breakfast Burrito.

On the all-day menu, snacks include chargrilled whole baby corn with ancho chilli and coffee mayonnaise; oyster mushroom ceviche; plátanos (fried plantains); and queso con chorizo.

Big plates include Chille Relleno En Nogada (sweet roasted bullhorn pepper stuffed with spiced ground meat and topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds); as well as Moqueca, a Brazilian seafood stew cooked in a spicy coconut, tomato and lime broth, served on rice). >>

Lona Misa’s Creative Culinary Partners, Shannon Martinez and Ian Curley WAYFARER 47

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From The Josper, Martinez says try the cauliflower roasted over fire and basted in peri peri sauce; or the mushroom pinchos morunos (spiced mushrooms grilled over fire and served with spicy mojo picon); as well as a whole roasted sweet potato served on mole negro, topped with spiced mince.

Alongside the impressive kitchen offering, Lona Misa also stands-out for its cocktails and wines on offer.

From kombucha on tap to Latin inspired cocktails, the drinks program celebrates the liveliness of La Bamba, pouring liberating libations from day to night, from garden to glass.

On offer is a selection of seasonal cocktails, native G&Ts, forgotten Latin classics, cold pressed juices and bespoke sodas. Meticulously mixed and creatively crafted using the freshest locally and sustainable sourced ingredients, inspired by the green gardens and vibrant botanicals.

On the local area inspired seasonal South Yarra Cocktail List, expect The Pedro with Pineapple Tio Pepe Sherry, Pedro Ximenez Sherry, Fresh OJ, Fresh Pineapple, sugar, fresh mint and seasonal berries. The classics, however, serve a more paired back slice of paradise with options including the bartender’s classic, the Hemingway Daiquiri, with Pampero Blanco, Luxardo Maraschino, Fresh Lime and Pink Grapefruit; along with Martinez, a simple and impactful mix of Tanqueray Gin, Cinzano 1757 Rosso Vermouth and Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur served with a lemon twist.

Adding to the impressive mix is an approachable wine list that features a full spectrum of classics as well as lesser-known regions and varieties that Martinez says has been carefully tailored to compliment the chefs’ root to stem philosophy.

Stylish: Lona Misa’s interiors are courtesy of brilliant designer Rachel Luchetti

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“Whilst the menu might be vegan and vegetarian, the dishes are still delicious as ever, replicating meat-based flavour profiles through texture and taste.”

Shannon Martinez, Creative Culinary Partner, Lona Misa

She says it highlights small growers who protect their land with minimal impact, whether through minimal intervention, organic or biodynamic practices. Another passion for Martinez is Lona Misa’s zero waste and sustainable commitment, which goes beyond the farm and table all the way to the back of house, and the venue utilises ORCA technology which mimics the natural digestion process.

Martinez says it works using the same principles that our body and other living organisms are governed by, creating the perfect thermophilic biological environment for the microorganisms to digest food waste into a liquid.

A commitment to healthy, plant-based, vegan and sustainable food has been a passion for Ovolo Group founder, Girish Jhunjhnuwala, who ensured an incredible dining experience was front and centre at the company’s newest hotel.

“Ovolo South Yarra delivers an extraordinary hotel experience embodying Ovolo’s philosophy of connecting with its guests emotionally,” he says. “It truly compliments the local cultural scene through art, design and a unique restaurant concept.”

Alongside the brilliant Lona Misa, Ovolo South Yarra features 123 rooms that infuse retro-plush, with accents of chrome and colour.

Ranging from micro-hotel rooms to Rockstar suites – each with a musical moniker, aptly named in honour of the era’s most iconic lyrical lovers, ‘John’, ‘Yoko’, ‘Sonny’ and ‘Cher’ – the accommodation on offer oozes a vibe here that is eclectic, electric and in typical Ovolo fashion, are anything but dull. ovolohotels.com

GETTING TO MELBOURNE Virgin Australia operates flights to Melbourne from across Australia on a daily basis. The author recommends booking a seat in the revamped Business Class cabin, which includes an all-new onboard menu that features a range of hot meals, healthy salads and Australian classics, matched with premium local wines. Stop by one of the Virgin Australia Lounges across the nation before you fly for a coffee, healthy meal or a wine in a stylish setting. virginaustralia.com

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Pepperjack Winemaker, Richard Mattner, in the vines

Pepperjack’s Argentinian style The Barossa Valley’s Pepperjack wines have a new global X-factor and winemaker, Richard Mattner, says it could be the start of big things to come.

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ast year, Pepperjack, one of Australia’s leading wine brands, added three new varietals to its portfolio – a Malbec, Sangiovese and a Chardonnay – and they have quickly proven to be a winners.

With a deep heritage stamped in the Barossa, Pepperjack wines have always been rich and divine, showing the brilliant region’s outstanding qualities.

However, with a desire to be more dynamic and innovative, the winemaking team have expanded beyond Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon to produce three new outstanding wines to meet the ever-changing needs of consumers and occasions.

Sourcing grapes internationally was a very first for Pepperjack, which makes the Pepperjack Malbec a true standout.

Pepperjack Winemaker, Richard Mattner, travelled to Mendoza, Argentina to source the grapes – ensuring the Pepperjack style and quality was not going to be compromised.

“Argentinian Malbec is different to Australian Malbec in that it has a depth of rich dark fruit, but still displays fresh aromatics of spice and violets and a bold tannin profile,” he said.

“The Pepperjack philosophy is to create wines that are synonymous with the regions that they are from.

“Therefore, as we expand beyond Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, there was a need to expand our sourcing from beyond the Barossa,” Mattner said.

He said following in the ‘emerging varietal’ footsteps of the Malbec is the Sangiovese.

“Quite fruit-driven in style, it has the rustic notes you would expect from a Sangiovese but with a soft round tannin profile, which remains true to the Pepperjack style – modern and approachable. With a small splash of Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is guaranteed to be a true crowd pleaser,” he said.

“With thanks to Adelaide Hills’ dry crispness and Padthaway’s full roundness and flavour, the Chardonnay is fresh, vibrant and fruit-driven with a mouth-watering acidity, but still maintains a nice phenolic presence.

“With Chardonnay seeing a real revival recently, we felt it was a good

time to once again try our hand at making some white wines, beginning with a Chardonnay.

“This is a really exciting time for Pepperjack as we evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of consumers and occasions – especially the demand for lighter-bodied, more refreshing varietals as we head into the warmer months,” he said.

It’s just the start of things to come for Pepperjack too, according to the leading winemaker.

“There is a desire to expand the white wine portfolio, so watch this space,” Mattner said.

Pepperjack’s latest release wines are now available across Australia. pepperjack.com.au

TOP PEPPERJACK DROPS Pepperjack Winemaker, Richard Mattner, looks at the three new varietals.

1. 2018 Pepperjack Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) This deep dense black colour Malbec with a red huec has aromas of violets, spice, ripe blueberries and boysenberry, with hints of mocha oak. The palate shows fresh fruits of red cherry, fresh cranberries with savoury chalky tannins which give length and finesse.

2. 2019 Pepperjack Sangiovese (Barossa/Padthaway, South Australia) The 2019 Sangiovese has aromas of dried herbs, forest floor, aniseed, ripe plum, brambles and subtle oak characters. The palate shows fresh fruits of red cherry, fresh cranberries with savoury chalky tannins which give length and finesse.

3. 2019 Pepperjack Chardonnay (Adelaide Hills/Padthaway, South Australia) Aromas of white stone fruits, grapefruit, hints of spice, nutmeg and some nutty cashew oak. The palate shows sweet crème brûlée, yellow stone fruit, tropical notes, papaya mangosteen and slatey acidity.

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DEPARTURES APPETITE

Mt. Uncle Founder and Head Distiller, Mark Watkins

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Queensland’s botanical champion Up in Far North Queensland, a small distillery can lay claim to be the producer of the world’s best gin and it’s part of a success story that’s showing no signs of slowing down for the team at Mt. Uncle.

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ropical North Queensland’s Mt. Uncle Distillery has received the highest honour at the London Spirits Competition for 2021, taking home ‘Gin of The Year’ and ‘Best in Show by Country’ for their Botanic Australis Navy Strength Gin. Mt. Uncle Founder and Head Distiller, Mark Watkins, said this is “another notch in the Queensland distillery’s belt as the company continues to reach new heights in the international marketplace”.

The gin wins also came just weeks after Mt. Uncle was honoured at the 2021 World Rum Awards with medals for the World’s Best Pot Still and Style Winner for the FNQ. Rum Co. Iridium.

“We have built our unrivalled reputation on producing awardwinning premium spirits and liqueurs, with a huge emphasis on using as many local and national Australian ingredients as possible,” he said.

“Nestled in the foothills of the mountain, our distillery transforms a variety of fresh tropical fruit and Australian native botanicals into unique liqueurs and spirits, while Queensland sugarcane and barley is used for rum and whisky production.

“Winning Gin of the Year and Best in Show for Australia, as well as the other Gold and Silver medals, at the fourth London Spirits Competition is the ultimate endorsement in the global spirits industry.

“We are proud to have scored highly in the three judging aspects of quality, value and packaging.

“The London Spirits Competition stands apart from other spirits competitions by awarding spirits for their drinkability.

“Where other competitions focus solely on technical competence and distilling prowess, the London Spirits Competitions goes further to evaluate a spirit for its all-around excellence – in the way it tastes, looks and the value it provides.

“They believe that this golden triangle makes spirit drinkers more likely to buy and drink the spirit either from a retail store, or a bar or restaurant and want to laud this.”

Alongside Gin of The Year and Best in Show by Country, the Mt. Uncle Distillery also won gold medals (for the Botanic Australis Navy Strength Gin, FNQ. Rum Co. Iridium Rum, and Botanic Australis Northern Gem Gin) and silver medals (for the FNQ Rum Co. Platinum, Botanic Australis Bushfire Smoked Gin, FNQ. Rum Co. Iridium Rum, Botanic Australis Christmas Gin, Watkins Whisky Co. Single Malt, Anjea Vodka, and Botanic Australis Gin).

“The world-renowned judges at the London Spirits Competition offer spirit companies the chance to compete with thousands of excellent spirits from around the world,” Watkins said.

“We are pleased that Mt. Uncle Distillery performed so well at the

competition. These medals demonstrate that the spirits we are making are the kind that bar managers and mixologists want to stock and spirits drinkers enjoy drinking.

“I founded Mt. Uncle Distillery in 2001, and 20 years later we continue to distil a multitude of liqueurs on our menu, sourcing ingredients and fruits from Mt. Uncle farm itself and other local farmlands on the Atherton Tablelands.

“My passion for the craft shaped Mt. Uncle Distillery’s core practices of caring for the land where we source most of their ingredients and refining generations of recipes and distilling processes so that our customers can taste nature’s finest in every drop.

“Over the last two decades, we have built an unmatched reputation for Mt. Uncle Distillery in producing award-winning premium spirits and liqueurs. This recognition from the London Spirits Competition is an incredible complement to our entire team at Mt. Uncle.

“We work tirelessly to produce the best spirits in Australia – which we have known for a long time – but the international acclaim is phenomenal.”

Mt. Uncle Distillery is set in landscaped gardens within a banana plantation an hour west of Cairns. mtuncle.com WAYFARER 53

A WORLD-CLASS VIEW The finest of Swiss hospitality awaits at Swissôtel The Stamford, one of Southeast Asia’s tallest hotels.

Central Location | Connectivity Located right in the heart of the Central Business District, directly above City Hall train station, world-class shopping, entertainment are right at the doorstep.

Seated within an integrated complex with a wealth of dining and entertainment options, Swissôtel The Stamford is an urban sanctuary in Singapore’s thriving metropolis.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. LIVE IT WELL.

@SWISSOTELTHESTAMFORD SWISSOTEL-SINGAPORE-STAMFORD.COM AMERICAS | ASIA PACIFIC | EUROPE | MIDDLE EAST

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE. Guides to some of the world’s hottest destinations, hotels, cars, accessories and much more.

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Six of Wayfarer’s favourite alpine hotels in Australia and New Zealand

The latest motoring news and accessories from premium brands

Alpine Wanderlust

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Adventure Playgrounds

Essential guides on and off the slopes at Queenstown and Thredbo

Inside Line

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Luxury drives

Behind the wheel of the Aston Martin DBX and the Peugeot 5008GT

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Travel Essentials

Top travel gear and technology for the home, office and on the road

Check-in to Sofitel Queenstown (p60) WAYFARER 55

The Australian and New Zealand high country is home to some fantastic hotels and resorts, each with their own unique flair and alpine style.

James Wilkinson checks-in to some of the top properties that need to be on your radar this both this season and next.

Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa had a brilliant location to ski and board both Thredbo and Perisher

ALPINE ESCAPES TRAVEL

LAKE CRACKENBACK RESORT & SPA Snowy Mountains, New South Wales Located 15 minutes from both Jindabyne and Thredbo and adjacent to the Skitube, which can whisk skiers and boarders to Perisher in just 10 minutes, Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa has a fantastic location for those wishing to explore the two leading alpine playgrounds in New South Wales.

Here, you can expect a range of stylish accommodations, from Lakeview Apartments to Mountain Chalets, as well as excellent dining options – make sure you book a table at Cuisine – and a range of activities onsite, including a day spa, mountain biking, guided walks, fly-fishing tours, canoe hire and much more.

Our pick of the accommodation options is the two-bedroom Lakeview Apartments, which feature spacious bedrooms including one with an ensuite, balconies, a fireplace, large

living and dining areas accentuated with a plethora of natural light reflecting off the water, a self-contained kitchen, laundry and drying room for ski gear.

Should your eager eye be able to spot them, you’ll also find several platypus playing in the lake and an abundance of natural wildlife around the property, including wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, brumbies and more.

There is also a rental gear shop onsite, as well as a convenience store that’s loaded up with wine, cheese, charcuterie items and other essential goodies. Book in advance too as this property is one of the region’s most popular year-round escapes. lakecrackenback.com.au WAYFARER 57

TRAVEL ALPINE ESCAPES

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The Rees Hotel has an epic wine cellar and (left) fantastic food, suites and views

THE REES HOTEL QUEENSTOWN Queenstown, New Zealand With views that stretch over to The Remarkables mountain range, a location right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and some of the most spacious suites and apartments in the South Island of New Zealand, there are many things to like about The Rees Hotel Queenstown.

Perhaps the crowing joy for any stay, however, is what’s found at True South Dining Room, in the form of the exceptional cuisine from Corey Hume – Australasian Hotel Chef of the Year in 2020 at the industry-leading HM Awards – and the wine cellar that’s curated by The Rees’s Wine Director and CEO, Mark Rose.

Recently, the fine-dining New Zealand restaurant won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for the fourth year in a row. It is the only restaurant in Queenstown that has attained this level consecutively since 2018 and one of only two in New Zealand to have achieved this in 2021.

The True South Dining Room’s private cellar contains one of the most comprehensive collections of fine wines in the

Southern Hemisphere, combining vintages from France, Italy, and Australia with famous New Zealand producers such as Rippon from Wanaka. Impressively, there is a fine selection of Bordeaux wines, including Château Latour, Château Margaux and Château Mouton Rothschild, alongside classic Burgundy houses Romanée-Conti, Faiveley and Comte Georges de Vogüé.

“We are extremely proud of the restaurant’s ability to pair fresh, locally sourced dishes with an extensive range of wine from around the world which distinguishes our hotel’s dining room as a top destination for wine lovers visiting Queenstown,” Rose says.

On the accommodation front, choose from a selection of hotel rooms and apartments, as well as five private, 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom Lakeside Residences, all with terraces, that feature some of the most spectacular views in Queenstown. therees.co.nz WAYFARER 59

TRAVEL ALPINE ESCAPES

SOFITEL QUEENSTOWN HOTEL & SPA Queenstown, New Zealand When it comes to the most luxurious hotels in New Zealand, Sofitel Queenstown consistently rates with the best-of-the-best. From the stylish touches across the five-star hotel to the hospitality the brand is synonymous for, this property offers a fantastic luxury escape.

While you’ll be impressed with the treatments at the spa, enjoy the cuisine on offer at the 1789 Lounge and sip on a local Pinot Noir at the bar, the standout at this property is what’s on offer at Penthouse No. 10, arguably one of the best rooms in New Zealand.

It is set on the top floor of the property complete with its own private outdoor terrace and the hotel’s General Manager, Jeremy Samuels, says it “feels like your own exclusive residence in the heart of Queenstown’s settlement”.

Step out onto the terrace and you’ll find a jacuzzi, sun lounges and sweeping views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range – an ideal setting after a day skiing, jetboating or relaxing after a visit or two to a winery in the nearby Gibbston Valley.

Inside Penthouse No. 10 expect space aplenty, from the stylish living room, bar and dining areas to the oversized master bedroom, bathroom and couples’ dressing room.

The experience doesn’t stop there, with the room also boasting one of the most fun in-suite experiences in Queenstown.

“This masterpiece in luxury design showcases grandeur at every turn, and even comes complete with a dedicated movie theatre

room boasting state-of-the-art technology,” Samuels says.

It is most certainly a light-filled room that maximises its location atop a hotel in the heart of this bustling alpine town.

“Light filters through the window into the rooms, playing off the mirrored fireplaces and chandelier crystals,” Samuels says. “Enveloped in glamorous moody tones of granite and rich earth, using plush, tactile fabrics and glistening accents of silver and gold, the penthouse’s interior both relaxes and excites.

“Help yourself to a shot of bean-tocup coffee, jump into your oversized bathtub, and prepare to enjoy yourself in one of Queenstown’s most magnificent and exclusive penthouses.” sofitel-queenstown.com

Find style aplenty inside Sofitel Queenstown's Penthouse No.10 (and right)

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HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES QUEENSTOWN Queenstown, New Zealand Holiday Inn Express and Suites Queenstown burst onto the scene in mid-2020 in New Zealand’s alpine playground and brought with it style, spacious rooms and incredible value at a top location.

The new-build property, which came at a cost of AU$60 million, features 227 rooms and suites, with many views of famed Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.

Here you’ll find a hotel fully equipped with all the features the Holiday Inn Express brand has become renowned for globally, including power showers, black-out blinds, high-quality bedding with a choice of pillows and uncapped free WiFi. Holiday Inn Express and Suites Queenstown also features an outdoor lounge and firepit, fitness room, sauna, two flexible meeting rooms, self-serve laundry, dry room (ideal for ski and boarding gear), onsite parking and a free business centre.

“Our rooms provide all the quality conveniences that make you feel at home, even when you’re away,” says Holiday Inn Express and Suites Queenstown Hotel Manager, Jason Sabin.

“We are proud of our sustainability-focused facilities and initiatives, such as the carpets throughout the building which are made from reclaimed fishing nets.”

He says the hotel’s architecture – designed by acclaimed Queenstown architect Preston Stevens of McAuliffe Stevens – combines abstract elements representing ice and rock to pay homage to the hotel’s landscape history and achieve a design that fits with the surrounding urban environment.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites Queenstown is the first and only hotel under the Holiday Inn Express brand in New Zealand and Sabin said another key X-factor was the location in the heart of town and proximity to so many major attractions.

“It provides easy access to popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona and Treble Cone, while popular tourist attractions such as the Skyline gondola and the town’s dining precinct are on your doorstep,” he says. ihg.com

TRAVEL ALPINE ESCAPES

CRADLE MOUNTAIN LODGE Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania Some of Australia’s best alpine hotels and resorts don’t have any skiing or boarding close by, but offer a truly magical escape, including Cradle Mountain Lodge, nestled in Tasmania’s spectacular Lake St Clair National Park.

Here you can have a luxury stay and experience the best of a national park that was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982 and covers approximately 1,584,000 hectares of pristine Tasmanian wilderness.

In the heart of it on 23 acres is the 86-cabin Cradle Mountain Lodge, which is fresh from a stunning AU$10 million makeover that has seen the addition of brilliant King Billy Suites and the restaurants – Highland and The Tavern Bar and Bistro – given a new look.

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The King Billy Suites create a new standard for high-end luxury accommodation for the property and are highlighted by a double-sided enclosed fireplace in the middle of the rooms, an oversized bathtub, king sized bed and a hot tub on the terrace with a backdrop of the surrounding wilderness.

Also find minibars loaded up with lots of fantastic treats, like local whisky, wine and snacks, and premium amenities in the bathrooms.

Alongside enjoying the King Billy Suites and the food on offer at Highland restaurant, make sure you book in for a treatment at the Waldheim Alpine Spa, where you’ll find world class staff offering an array of treatments.

Call ahead and be sure to book The Sanctuary, which features includes a

steam room, sauna, large hot-tub, cool plunge pool and relaxation lounge, which overlook Pencil Pine River and towering King Billy pines.

For those that want to get their adventure on, the property features a range of self-guided activities, which as short walks to waterfalls and longer hikes of up to 9-hours, which vary depending on the weather and the season.

Our tip is to head into the National Park and take a walk around Dove Lake, which is one of the most picturesque spots in Australia and where you’ll get a great view of Cradle Mountain, which at 1,545m above sea level is Tasmania’s sixth highest peak and one of the most stunning locations in the state. cradlemountainlodge.com.au

“The King Billy Suites create a new standard for high-end luxury accommodation.”

Cradle Mountain Lodge is one of Australia's best alpine escapes (and left) the King Billy Suites and plunge pool at the Waldheim Alpine Spa

ALPINE ESCAPES TRAVEL

THREDBO ALPINE HOTEL Thredbo, New South Wales The Thredbo Alpine Hotel carries legendary status for Australians for good reason, because here is a property that has stood the test of time, with some modern advancements and additions, of course, since its debut in 1962.

Here you will find 65 classic, alpine style rooms, some that look out onto the mountain, the Thredbo River, Kosciuszko Express Chairlift and the newly-built Merritts Gondola, a high-speed, eight-person Gondola that can whisk you up to the base of the Cruiser Area in just six minutes.

In winter, that means access to one of Thredbo’s best skiing and boarding areas, plus quick access to the weekly après event Corona Sunsets and the new Merritts Mountain Haus Feast dinner experience onboard Australia’s only alpine Gondola.

Speaking of après, one of the best parts about staying at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel is you have the Piano Bar (also known as the Lounge Bar) off the lobby, dating back to 1968, where you’ll find Australia’s best retro-ski alpine vibes in the country. A glass of Pinot Noir, a martini or a spritz in front of the oversized fireplace is absolutely on the cards.

Still on the food and wine front, the hotel is home to Cascades Restaurant and The Pub, as well as several retail outlets to get kitted out in a new beanie or a fresh set of jackets and pants.

You’ll also find dedicated car parking at the front door (huge X-factor here), alongside a sauna, guest laundry, ski and boot lockers, a bike storage room and for when you want to chill out after a long day, room service. thredbo.com.au

The Thredbo Alpine Hotel has retro-cool rooms and a sensational location WAYFARER 67

With world-class wineries, popular ski fields, legendary restaurants and a plethora of adrenaline-based activities, Queenstown in New Zealand is a playground for all ages at any time of the year. James Wilkinson uncovers what to experience in one of the world’s most exciting destinations.

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Take a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw

QUEENSTOWN TRAVEL

ueenstown is known as New Zealand’s adventure playground for good reason – on and off the slopes and during all seasons because there are seemingly never-ending activities to do on holidays and business trips alike.

From the wineries in the Gibbston Valley to the jetboats on the Shotover River, the eateries on the lakefront and the ski runs down Coronet Peak, Queenstown (queenstownz.co.nz) offers a magical playground that’s fantastic for a week and even better for two.

SKIING & BOARDING

New Zealand’s first commercial ski area, Coronet Peak (coronetpeak.co.nz) dates back to 1947 and thanks to its close proximity to Queenstown, it has been one of the most popular in the nation ever since. Getting here is a breeze, thanks to a sealed road all the way up to the base and you’ll find modern conveniences right across mountain, including a number of cafes and restaurants. Swing by our favourite spot Heidi’s Hut, which is reminiscent of a Swiss Ski Chalet and located by Coronet Peak’s Rocky Gully T-Bar. Pop in here for a coffee, a spot of lunch or mulled wine or two for après. Where Coronet Peak excels is with its snowsports school, which is also a licensed early-leaning centre – ideal for dropping the kids off and going for a ski or board. The

Sip up at Heidi’s Hut

instructors are fantastic for all ski levels, with the little ones will have a blast at Skiwiland, which offers playtime and learning to ski for 3-5 year-olds with all gear included. If you’re here on a Wednesday or a Friday (from late June to late August), an absolute must is a night ski under lights from 4-9pm, complete with stunning views, Coronet Peak Pale Ales, pizza and DJs. Across the valley at The Remarkables (theremarkables. co.nz), expect a welcoming and adventurous ski area that boasts three sun-drenched bowls and up to seven terrain parks. The ski area here offers a range of terrain to suit all levels, from off-piste black runs and daring chutes to wide-open learner slopes and everything in between.

The Remarkables is also known as the home of freeriding in New Zealand and annually hosts the country’s only World Qualifier Freeride events. There has also been solid investment in the ski area over the past six years, with the installation of two new chairlifts and an award-winning base building featuring a restaurant, bar and café. Snowsports lessons are also available.

If you’re in town for over a week, head over the Crown Range to Cardrona (cardrona.com) where you’ll find terrain for all levels and Treble Cone (treblecone.com), close to Wanaka, for some of the best intermediate and advanced runs in the Southern Hemisphere. >>

Go skiing at Coronet Peak

River riding with Shotover Jet WAYFARER 69

TRAVEL QUEENSTOWN

OUT & ABOUT

The Southern Lakes district, which Queenstown is at the heart of, offers some of the most dramatic scenery in New Zealand, alongside incredible adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Queenstown is the place for bungy jumping, jetboating, zipriding, canyon swinging, snowmobiling and heliskiing, alongside relaxing activities like cruising on the region’s famed lakes and scenic flights over glaciers.

Any trip here isn’t complete without a jetboat ride and there are several fantastic journeys to take around Queenstown and nearby, spectacular Glenorchy.

The original and one of the best to this day is the Shotover Jet (shotoverjet.co.nz) which started in 1965, soon after the invention of the Jet Unit by Kiwi Bill Hamilton, and began what would become one of the world’s most exciting activities. Hop aboard a 14-seater for a 25-minute fly through the canyons on the Shotover River, getting up to 90 kilometres an hour in as little as 10 centimetres of water.

You’ll ride the rapids and perform thrilling, gravity-defying stunts within a whisker of the cliff faces on a journey that blends pristine natural landscape with wall-to-wall action from start to finish. Shotover Jet’s high-performance boats

were designed specifically this stretch of the river and along the way you’ll also hear stories about the region’s immense history that’s steeped in Māori culture.

Shotover Jet’s operators Ngāi Tahu Tourism (ngaitahutourism.co.nz) also operate the Dart River Adventures (dartriver.co.nz), around 40 minutes away in Glenorchy, which includes kayak trips and the phenomenal Wilderness Jet which goes deep into the heart of the worldrenowned Mount Aspiring National Park. On a spectacular and exhilarating two-hour jetboat ride, you’ll follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers, doing 360-degree spins and learning about area’s rich history. Hear about the Ngāi Tahu tipuna (ancestors) of the area, who would use this network of awa (rivers) to gather food, plants and the sacred pounamu (greenstone). It is an incredible experience that offers not just a thrilling adventure, but a unique insight into a spectacular pocket of the Te Waipounamu World Heritage Area.

A recent addition to the local adventure scene is the Oxbow Adventure Co (oxbow.co.nz), which offers a range of activities, including Jet Sprint Boats, a 4WD Off-Roader and clay bird shooting. You’ll want a few laps in the 4-Seater Jet Sprint boats, which accelerate from 0-100km/hr in 2.5

Tracks with a view at Coronet Peak

APRÈS STOP-OFF Arthur’s Point On the way back from skiing at Coronet Peak, stop off at Arthur’s Point for tasty tipples and hot tubs with a view.

Head to Cargo at Gantley’s (cargobrewery.co.nz) for live music, pub grub and a fresh local brew – the wheat is a winner – in a historic stone building that dates back to 1865 and was built to quench the thirst during the region’s gold rush era. Then swing by Broken Heart’s Gin Garden (brokenheartspirits.com), where you’ll find 11 small batch Broken Heart Spirits loaded up with local botanicals as well as an impressive Ocktoberfest lager. Around the corner is the Onsen Hot Pools (onsen.co.nz), where you can relax in a cedar hot tub complete with views over the Shotover River and capture a postcard moment.. queenstownnz.co.nz

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QUEENSTOWN TRAVEL

“Heidi’s Hut at Coronet Peak is ideal for après.”

Hiking at Mole’s Lake

Eat up at Botswana Butchery

seconds and zoom on a course with a series of islands to navigate around.

A fun way to take in the beauty of the area is in a luxurious Tesla Model X with Nomad Safaris (nomadsafaris.co.nz).

Head off the beaten path and uncover some of the scenic sights in Central Otago in an emission-free, whisper quiet luxury ride complete with a glass roof.

Taking a cruise across Lake Wakatipu is something you can’t miss when visiting Queenstown and the only way to do it is aboard the 108-year-old, coal-fired steamship, TSS Earnslaw (realjourneys.co.nz). It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the spectacular alpine scenery and it is best combined with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a guided farm tour, horse trek, independent cycling, gourmet barbecue lunch or dinner. The TSS Earnslaw carries legendary status – it has carried many famous visitors including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip and President Bill Clinton – and taking a journey on such a delightful old steamer on one of New Zealand’s greatest

lakes is a brilliant way to relax and take in this incredible part of the world.

Back on shore, travel back to a time when dinosaurs roamed the earth and learn about how Lake Wakatipu was carved out by a giant glacier at Time Tripper (kjet.co.nz), a state-of-the-art animated show that also tells the Māori legend of the creation of the Wakatipu region.

For some real untouched beauty without any cars, jetboats or power, go for a walk or cycle along the Moke Lake Loop Track (queenstownnz.co.nz). It’s a two-hour walk and the track takes you along the edge of the picturesque Moke Lake, through grassland and surrounded by towering mountains.

After a short climb, find a stunning view overlooking the lake and getting to the starting point of the loop is just a quick 15-minute drive from Queenstown towards Glenorchy.

Before you drop the rental car back at the airport, swing by Buzzstop (buzzstop.co.nz) in Frankton, a one-stop shop for all things bees and honey, along with a wide variety of fun, educational and hands-on activities for all ages. >> WAYFARER 71

TRAVEL QUEENSTOWN

EAT & DRINK

Queenstown is known for its bars and restaurants as much as it is for the adrenaline-pumping and relaxing activities you can do in town and around the region. Here, you’ll find a range of fantastic places to eat and drink at, from wine bars to some of the best restaurants in New Zealand.

A favourite for many years has been Botswana Butchery (botswanabutchery.co.nz), which features a stylish dining room and bar, roaring log fires, fantastic cuisine and private dining suites for two to 30 people. Some of the must-haves on South African-born chef Warwick Taylor’s menu include the Wild Fiordland Red Deer Tartare, West Coast Whitebait, High Country Lamb, Black Origin Bavette and the Savannah Angus Ribeye on the Bone. Don’t skip past the Wagyu beef fat braised carrots and kumara fries with parmesan and aioli on the sides and when it comes to drinks, find an exceptional collection of gins, rums and whiskies, alongside a solid cocktail list and a brilliant book of wine highlighted by magnums of Champagne and local Pinot Noir. The wines by the glass selection is impressive – expect to order the 2019 Amisfield Dry Riesling and 2017 Mount Edward Pinot Noir from up in the valley nearby – and by the bottle even better, particularly if you want to sample some of Central Otago’s best drops. If you’re in a group of 10, go for a banquet menu, which is a fantastic taste of chef Taylor’s signatures.

The Rees Hotel Queenstown is one of our top alpine properties in New Zealand (p58) thanks to its location, style and particularly the brilliant food and wine on offer at True South Dining Room (therees.co.nz), helmed by Executive Chef, Corey Hume. “Seasonal and local ingredients define my ever-evolving menu style, emphasising flavours and utilising New Zealand ingredients as the hero of the dishes,” he told Wayfarer. “I aim to have a story behind every dish, a reason why the ingredients are there. Nothing is presented on a plate without a purpose or a tale to be told about the dish or its

Grazing in the vines at Gibbston Valley 72 WAYFARER

ingredients.” Standout dishes here are the Te Matuku Oyster Tempura, Roasted Nevis Gardens baby carrots, Wakanui Beef Sirloin and the Fiordland Crayfish Tail and when paired alongside views of The Remarkables and exceptional wines courtesy of The Rees’s Wine Director and CEO, Mark Rose, once again named one of New Zealand’s best by Wine Spectator, you certainly have a must-do experience.

For barbecued ribs and steaks, head to Flame Bar and Grill (flamegrill.co.nz) at the Steamer Wharf. It has been a staple in Queenstown for over a decade and is popular with both locals and visitors alike. There’s a South African flavour to the dishes thanks to the founders’ Durban roots and you can expect a taste of Braai right across the menu. Don’t skip past the full rack of pork ribs with Flame mash, the Fragrant Lamb from Southland, Mozambique Prawns and the Fillet Royale burger.

On the topic of burgers, the most legendary place for a takeaway is Fergburger (fergburger.com) and you can never go wrong with a double beef and cheese after a day of skiing or jetboating. A more recent addition from the team is Ferg’s Bar, next door, which serves up cocktails, wines and spirits until 2am.

Other top bars to stop by include Bardeaux (facebook. com/bardeauxqt), which has a solid wine list, a huge open fire, fantastic music and a lively atmosphere, The Sundeck (thesundeck.nz) for sunset drinks and tapas on the roof, and The Bunker (thebunker.co.nz), which, for well over a decade, has been serving up cocktails and tunes in a former rundown apartment. The restaurant underneath is well worth a look-in too, thanks to some top dishes featuring European and Kiwi flavours, crafted by Executive Chef and Co-Owner, Ben Norfolk, while also have eateries Rātā (ratadining.co.nz) which is loaded up with stunning New Zealand cuisine and Jervois Steak House (jervoissteakhouse.co.nz) for excellent cuts of meat in the same famed ilk as its Auckland sibling, on the list of tables to book. >>

“On an exhilarating two-hour jetboat ride, follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers, doing 360-degree spins.”

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TRAVEL QUEENSTOWN

WORLD-CLASS WINERIES

Right across the Central Otago wine region, which spans from the east of Queenstown through the Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell and Wanaka, you’ll find arguably the most exciting, progressive and delicious new-world Pinot Noir, alongside very impressive whites.

The drive alone along the Kawarau River alone is one of the most exciting drives in the region and it is home to some of the most picturesque wineries that are producing worldclass wines.

While there are over 130 producers across the Central Otago region, several of the best are just 20 minutes from the heart of Queenstown, including Amisfield, Chard Farm, Gibbston Valley and Peregrine.

The first stop is going to be Amisfield (amisfield.co.nz), one of the largest single estate vineyards in Central Otago and known for its Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Pop in for a tasting (five wines and a small plate of dishes for NZ$15pp) or book in for lunch at the restaurant where you’ll feast on a degustation-style exploration of the season’s best local produce.

A few minutes down the road, you’ll drive over the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge – the original home of bungy jumping in the world, created by the legendary AJ Hackett (bungy.co.nz) – and take a right along a cliff-size road. This leads to Chard Farm (chardfarm.co.nz), which not

Carving up at The Remarkables

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“Taking a cruise across Lake Wakatipu is something you can’t miss when visiting Queenstown.”

QUEENSTOWN TRAVEL

Gibbston Valley's wine cave

only serves-up some stunning wines, but some of the most spectacular vineyards you’ll ever walk through. Here you’ll walk out with a bottle each of Pinot Noir from the Viper, Tiger and Mason vineyards, as well as the Mata-Au, a blend of all three. Also give the Judge and Jury Chardonnay a taste, plus the Viper vineyard Riesling.

Next door is Gibbston Valley (gibbstonvalley.com), one of the region’s founding wineries that was first started by the godfather of New Zealand Pinot Noir, Alan Brady, who firmly put the region on the map. The first Gibbston Valley commercial vintage wine was released in 1987 and since then the brand has had several major accolades, particularly for with the 2000 Reserve Pinot Noir, which was the first ever non-French wine to win the Gold Medal Trophy for Pinot Noir/Burgundy at the London International Wine Challenge. You can expect some fantastic drops at present – standouts include the Reserve Pinor Noir, of course, alongside the Le Maitre and China Terrace releases – plus some other experiences onsite, including a visit inside New Zealand’s largest wine cave, lunch at the restaurant led

by Executive Chef Anthony Gradiska and a tasting at the Gibbston Valley Cheesery.

Back in the day, the tasting room at Peregrine (peregrinewines.co.nz) was a small shed, selling some exciting wines produced from the company’s adjacent vineyards – a far cry from the architecture wonder that has been in place since 2003 and draws people for images to post on social media as much as tastings. One thing that remains exciting is the quality of the wine this company consistently produces,

particularly the Pinot Noir and Riesling that both continue to excel. The Pinot Noir is excellent value at NZ$45 and if you can get your hands on a magnum of the 2015 release, make room in your luggage for it because it’s a beauty.

Should you not get an opportunity to visit the region’s fantastic cellar doors, try up to 80 of the leading drops at The Winery (thewinery.co.nz) in the heart of Queenstown by the taste, half or full glass you’ll no doubt be walking out with a local Pinot Noir or two like we always do.

GETTING TO QUEENSTOWN Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia operate regular services to Queenstown from across Australia. One of the best value ways to get there is on Jetstar (jetstar.com), which offers direct services to Queenstown from Sydney, Melbourne (Tullamarine) and the Gold Coast (Coolangatta) with one-way fares starting from AU$220. One of the best things about Jetstar – alongside the low fares, friendly service and comfortable seats – is the Price Beat Guarantee, so if you find a better fare online, they’ll beat it by 10%, including what you find on other websites. If you become a member of Club Jetstar and you’ll also get memberonly fares, early access to their biggest sales, and 20% off bags and seat selection for up to five people on a booking.

Jetstar has also introduced greater flexibility if there are any changes to flights due to border changes.

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TRAVEL THREDBO

With bumper snowfalls, Australia’s longest ski runs and an iconic European village atmosphere, it’s no wonder Thredbo is Australia’s favourite alpine town. James Wilkinson looks at where to ski, eat, drink and shop in style this winter and beyond.

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THREDBO TRAVEL

Thredboland is one of the world’s best alpine programs

he legendary New South Wales alpine village of Thredbo is synonymous with skiing in Australia. Its history dates back to 1955 when ski instructor Tony Sponar had a vision to transform the mountains into a playground like St. Anton in Austria, which soon became a reality two years later, when skiers were riding a tow for the first time.

Fast forward over 65 years and Thredbo continues to be as popular as ever, thanks to ongoing enhancements like the installation of Australia’s first gondola in the ski fields and the addition of new and fun programs for first timers and experts alike.

First tracks at Merritts

SKIING & BOARDING

When Thredbo (thredbo.com.au) debuted the Merritts Gondola, the only one of its kind in Australia, last winter, it proved to be a massive hit. This season it is again proving to be a phenomenal investment by Thredbo’s operators, Event Hospitality and Entertainment.

The eight-person Merritts Gondola can whisk skiers, boarders and day-trippers up to the base of the Cruiser Area in just six minutes. From there, one of the best areas of the mountain awaits, including several of our favourite runs – Playground, Walkabout, Squatters Run and Ballroom. You can also take the Traverse across to High Noon, which is always best first thing in the morning.

On the other side of the mountain, take the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift and head right up to the bell, Australia’s highest lifted point, and slip down the Supertrail to the base of the hill on what is the longest run in the nation.

Right across the resort, advanced and intermediate skiers will find plenty of off-piste challenges, powder bowls and natural features, making this one of the most fun mountains to play on in the Southern Hemisphere.

Early risers will take delight in a new offering for 2021 called the Sunrise Sessions. Set the pre-dawn alarm clocks and head up the mountain to watch the sunrise over the Snowy Mountains from the bell, then have breakfast Eagle’s Nest, Australia’s highest restaurant, then be the first to ski down Supertrail. It is first tracks with a uniquely Australian twist and one of the most fun experiences on the mountain.

No matter your level, one of the great things about skiing and boarding here is the mountain’s legendary snow sports school, which has some of the world’s best instructors that can assist with all abilities. Find experts who annually work all over the world – from Whistler to Beaver Creek, St Moritz and beyond – and will not only help you rapidly improve, but who double up as fantastic guides on the mountain.

For the little ones, you can expect great things at the Thredboland ski program for kids from 3-6 years old. It is recognised as one of the leading kids’ ski and snowboard programs in the world and offers children the chance to improve their skills and build confidence on the mountain.

The daily program goes from 9:30am to 3:30pm and includes up to five hours of snow time, leaving parents the opportunity for an all-day adventure on the mountain. >> WAYFARER 77

TRAVEL THREDBO

EAT & DRINK

The Thredbo alpine village is home to some lively restaurants and bars, each with a fun Australian and European atmosphere, delicious food, wine and of course, plenty of schnitzels and schnapps.

Located in the Thredbo Alpine Hotel complex, Cascades (thredbo.com.au) has been a go-to for decades thanks to its impressive breakfast and dinner menus, wonderful hospitality and views to the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift, the Thredbo River and up the mountain.

While a hearty breakfast is always on offer, Cascades excels in the evenings. Kick off with some Merimbula oysters from the New South Wales South Coast (alongside a local Wild Brumby gin and tonic), then order the chicken liver parfait and the signature pan seared scallops. With the mains, it’s hard to skip past the Coq Au Vin and the chargrilled lamb rump, while when it comes to desserts, good luck choosing between the crème brulee, chocolate fondant and apple tarte tatin, or opt for all three.

On the drinks front, order the Thredbo Mountini (Wildbrumby Thredbo staff cut gin, Noilly Prat Dry Vermouth, and lemon peel), or a couple of local wines, the 2019 Nick Spencer Chardonnay from Tumbarumba and the 2018 Collector Marked Tree Red from the Canberra District.

Across the way from Cascades is The Pub, a top spot for lunch or a casual dinner, as well as après drinks and bites. The poutine here is fantastic alongside a pint of the Kosciuszko Pale Ale, as are the burgers, steaks and schnitzels.

Score a booth by the window for the best seats in the house.

Off the lobby at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel is the legendary, retro-ski inspired Lounge Bar (also known as the Piano Bar), where it is all-about classic cocktails – Negronis, Martinis, Manhattans, Tommys Margaritas and Old Fashioneds are the call here – alongside an Aperol Spritz, bottles of

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Beers with a view at Merritts Mountain House

THREDBO TRAVEL

Mountain delight: Kareela Hutte

“Thredbo has the best après scene in Australia.”

Dining at Cascades

Champagne (Pol Roger always takes our fancy) and a decent selection of wines by the glass and bottle. If you are peckish, grab the alpine mezze with cured meats.

Around the corner at the Black Bear Inn (blackbearinn. com.au), an Austrian-styled ski lodge and restaurant, expect a fun atmosphere, rusty and hearty European dishes and a solid list of imported and Australian beers and schnapps.

The legendary dish here is the ‘trio of schnitzel’ featuring crumbed chicken, veal and southern fried pork with apple chipotle slaw and cranberry jam. Other winners include the mac, bacon and cheese croquettes, the confit duck leg and the beef goulash. Save room for the apple and boysenberry crumble and you’ll also have fun working through many flavours of schnapps on offer.

Other top spots in the village include Candlelight Lodge (candlelightlodge.com.au) for its cheese or chocolate fondue, Berntis Mountain Inn (berntis.com.au) for tapas and The Terrace at The Denman (thedenman.com.au) for its delightful après menu that includes steak tartare, calamari fritti and freshly shucked oysters.

When you are skiing during the day, Thredbo has several dining options, including our favourites Merritts Mountain House and Kareela Hutte. While these are great for a meal and a pint of Kosciuszko Pale Ale in the light-driven hours, they come to life at night this season through some fun experiences.

On Saturday evenings, there is the ‘Merritts Mountain Haus Feast and Snowcat Experience’, which includes a night-time ride under the stars on the gondola for a Bavarian-inspired feast. As part of the experience, guests can also take a Snowcat tour to Kareela Hutte to watch the Saturday Fireworks Spectacular and Flare Run before returning for dinner.

There is also the ‘Kareela Snowcat Dinners’, where you’ll travel in style to the popular establishment and a 4-course dinner and wine experience overlooking the lights of Thredbo Village below. >> WAYFARER 79

TRAVEL THREDBO

The brilliant, new Merritts Gondola

“Thredbo is one of Australia’s best year-round escapes.”

European style: Thredbo Village

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THREDBO TRAVEL

OUT & ABOUT

Right across the European-influenced Thredbo village, you’ll find boutiques, museums, homeware stores and activity centres.

If you are in the market to buy some boots, skis, poles, helmets and clothing, head to Gravity Thredbo (gravity. ski), located in the Village Square next to the Thredbo Alpine Hotel. They stock some of the leading gear and equipment from popular brands such as Spyder, Salomon, K2, Volkl, Oakley, Atomic, Elan, Blizzard and more.

The team at Gravity have a reputation as Australia’s best boot fitters and they will custom mould them to your feet in the store. If you have any issues on the hill, pop back in and they’ll sort out the issues for you. It is this level of service you don’t get in many alpine resorts and why instructors across the mountain will send you here for the perfect pair of boots.

Gravity also has a demo shop located at the base of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift and here you can try the latest skis from Volkl, Blizzard, K2 and Elan for AU$100 per day, with up to three days redeemable upon purchase.

If you are looking to rent gear for your time up the mountain, head to Thredbo Retail and Rental, which has locations at the Valley Terminal and Friday Flat. Here you can rent skis, snowboards and helmets as well as lockers, plus find a range of products to buy, including goggles, gloves, clothing, gear and more from a number of top brands including Helly Hansen, Nitro, The North Face, Patagonia, Roxy, Quicksilver, Burton, DC, ThirtyTwo and Spyder.

For some off-mountain fun, head to the Thredbo Leisure Centre, which is a 5-minute walk from both the Thredbo Village Square and Friday Flat. Here you’ll find an indoor pool, waterslide, gym, squash court, a sports hall, bouldering wall and a trampoline.

Learn about the history of the resort and some of the legendary Olympians who have called the mountain home at the Thredbo Alpine Museum (thredboalpinemuseum.org.au), located off the Village Square. The museum is home to a range of memorabilia, equipment, photos and documents that form Australian snow sports history, alongside the development of Thredbo and the Australian Snowy Mountains.

Thredbo is popular for mountain biking

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL SEASONS

When the snow isn’t dumping down, Thredbo is one of Australia’s favourite year-round escapes, with mountain biking taking over from November to April. The Thredbo Mountain Bike Park is recognised as the nation’s leading biking destination and features the only summer-long chairlift accessed gravity trails in the country.

This coming summer, the Mountain Bike Park is expected to see new trail updates, a progressive skills park, exciting new clinics and programs for all ages.

Alongside biking, Thredbo and the Snowy Mountains are extremely popular for hiking, with Thredbo offering a range of guided and private treks in the area, including up to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko and along Dead Horse Gap. At Thredbo, also find an alpine bobsled, fly fishing, tennis, disc golf, abseiling, a skate park and a 9-hole golf course that runs alongside the Thredbo River.

GETTING TO THREDBO Thredbo is a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney and a 2.5-hour drive from Canberra. QantasLink (qantas.com) also flies from Brisbane and Sydney to the Snowy Mountains Airport outside Cooma, which is then a one-hour coach transfer to Thredbo.

If you are driving from Sydney, book a night at the five-star Hotel Realm (hotelrealm.com.au) in Canberra, which features oversized rooms, a 25-metre indoor pool, hydrotherapy spa and several brilliant restaurants, including the Parisianinspired Buvette bistro and wine bar, the casual and delightful Ostani restaurant and lounge, and next door, the brilliant Lilotang, where it is all about pork and prawn potstickers, braised Wagyu beef brisket, wine, sake and over 80 whiskies.

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LIFESTYLE ACCESSORIES

Travel Essentials Must-have accessories for the global high-flyer.

Samsonite brings back the briefcase Samsonite is bringing back the briefcase as part of a new heritage-inspired Classic Leather collection. The star of the show, ‘The Toploader‘, is made from full-grain leather with a slim profile and has modern features on the inside like a laptop compartment and luggage smart sleeve. The Toploader has a ton of space for a 15.6-inch laptop, a tablet, notepad, magazines or files, plus business cards, pens and small pockets that are ideal for small portable hard drives and cables. It can easily slip onto a carry-on wheely bag and it also has a comfortable carry-strap, should you be just taking it to the office or meetings. Priced from AU$379. samsonite.com.au

Local Supply’s eco shades When it comes to sustainable eyewear, Local Supply are firmly on the mark this year. The stylish producer is disrupting the eyewear industry by using plant-based materials to produce their frames and using custom production methods that minimise waste and carbon emissions. The latest collection from Local Supply has been crafted with more than five years of research, testing and trialling of materials to create an innovative collection of plantbased modern silhouettes. Priced from AU$110. localsupply.com 82 WAYFARER

ACCESSORIES LIFESTYLE

Suunto’s stylish, versatile smartwatch Finnish innovators Suunto have been impressing with their products since 1936 and their flagship Suunto 7 smart sportswatch is one of their best releases to date.

The latest Suunto 7 has undergone a raft of upgrades and improvements – such as the ease-of-use to manage activity data and the ability to customise its sport mode functionality – pushing it up the innovation and great value ranks.

The Suunto 7 has a range of enhanced features, including Heatmaps, which has taken a new direction as users look for less populated circuits and routes for their chosen exercise.

Continuing its goal of being the smartwatch of choice for people with an active lifestyle, Suunto 7’s new 24/7 activity data improvements provides easy access to steps and calories through the Suunto mobile app and Suunto Today tile on the watch.

You’ll find an impressive battery life as well with the Suunto 7 and you can expect up to 12 hours in GPS tracking mode or up to 48 hours in daily use. Priced from AU$599. suunto.com

The Baker pouch from Kinnon A multipurpose pouch is a must have for any frequent flyer, should it to be used for small toiletries, pens, stationery or charging cables. One of our favourites is the Baker from Kinnon, a stylish pouch that’s crafted from Nappa leather. It is available in black, tan or gold and comes with grey Kinnon branded waterresistant lining, antique copper fittings and embossed leather zipper pulls. Priced from AU$85 and monogramming is available, plus free shipping is included. kinnon.com.au

Rimowa’s essential check-in case The world’s first ever polycarbonate suitcase and designed in Germany, the Rimowa Essential Check-In M in red with a glossy finish is a great example of luggage innovation. It is strong, durable, and lightweight and provides the best in high-tech luggage functionality. Priced from AU$1,255 and ideal for journeys of up to five days. rimowa.com.au WAYFARER 83

Review: Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds a wireless delight Bose taken its legendary style and quality to a whole new wireless level with the release of the QuietComfort Earbuds, which deliver the brand’s amazing noise-cancelling sound in a small, compact earbud.

The advancement in the QuietComfort (QC) technology over the past 20 years has given Bose to deliver incredible sound and now, in a small earbud that’s just over an inch long and weights 0.3 ounces, around the same as an Australian 20 cent coin (or an American quarter).

What is quite astounding is the noise cancelling that comes in such a small earbud. When walking alongside a major road, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in a park given you can barely hear passing trucks, buses and cars.

They are ideal for conference calls, listening to music inflight and even working out, given how well and comfortable they fit into your ear.

Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds are also incredibly easy to use with the Bose Music app and they give you even more audio 84 WAYFARER

flexibility thank other headphones thanks to the 11 levels of noise control that are available.

You can also expect an excellent battery life – 6 hours fully charged and an additional 12 using their charging case – and also look stylish in the ‘triple black’ and ‘soapstone’ colours they are available in.

It’s fair to say these are the most impressive and comfortable bud-style headphones Bose have released to date – something the brand firmly aimed for at the launch.

“We spent a lot of time making sure our new QuietComfort Earbuds were the most effective noise cancelling in-ear headphones ever,” said Bose wearable audio category director, Mehul Trivedi.

“But they also sound incredible and are a pleasure to wear and use. That’s an unbeatable combination that puts them ahead of the industry and makes them every bit a QuietComfort.”

The QC Earbuds are available for AU$399.95 from Bose and selected retailers. bose.com

LIFESTYLE TECHNOLOGY

Tech Corner Top technology for the travelling executive, at home and on the road.

Review: Lenovo’s Duet Chromebook a great value, lightweight star

Boost your charge with Belkin

Lenovo recently debuted the Duet Chromebook and it’s a product that offers fantastic value for money and lightweight portability, elements that make it ideal for the travelling executive.

In recent years, the tablet market has seen devices get both larger and smaller, and more powerful and HD than ever before.

Amongst what is now a crowded market, a few devices have been clear standouts, like the Lenovo Duet Chromebook (AU$499), which is up there with the best releases of late.

Here is a tablet that is practical for business one minute – thanks to the full power of programs like Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint – and entertainment the next, thanks to the best of Disney+, Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video broadcast on the 10.1-inch FHD IPS touchscreen that offers 1920 x 1200 resolution.

The Lenovo Duet Chromebook (AU$499) has 4GB RAM and 128GB SSD storage, making it both fast and powerful enough to play and store a decent number of apps, movies, games and music. It also has a 10-hour battery life, making it ideal for flights without power ports and for remote business presentations. lenovo.com

Belkin has launched its new Boost Charge Smart Cable range and they are an absolute winner for executives on the road and at home.

Featuring Belkin’s latest technology which allows you to see an iPhone’s charge status at a glance, the range.

Belkin’s latest cable range uses a custom circuit board with proprietary firmware to communicate with the iPhone’s battery, displaying an amber light when charging and a green light when the device is at 100%.

Compatible with iPhones and MFi-certified, and featuring a universally compatible USB-A connector, users can charge up to 12W using a wall or car charger.

The Belkin Boost Charge Smart Cable range comes in three classic colours – including black, silver and grey – and are priced from AU$38.95 for the Smart USB-A Cable and from AU$44.95 for the Smart USB-C Cable. belkin.com.au WAYFARER 85

Home Style A collection of Wayfarer’s favourite products for the house and holiday home.

Dyson’s next level purification Dyson has released its latest generation of purification, designed to tackle indoor pollution within workspaces and classrooms as well as the home.

Now available in the Australian market, the new range for consumers are the Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde (AU$999) and the Dyson HEPA Cool Formaldehyde (AU$799), which both offer fantastic technology at an affordable price point, ensuring a cleaner space.

Tireless and ever-dissatisfied, Dyson engineers have re-engineered the machine airflow pathways to achieve sealed HEPA 13 standard filtration – not only ensuring that no air bypasses the filter, but blocking any potential leak points through which dirty air might enter the airflow. dyson.com.au

The new Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde

HOMESTEAD LIFESTYLE

Amazon’s brilliant Echo Show 10

Review: Amazon impresses with the Echo Show 10 Amazon’s all-new Echo Show 10 has finally made it to Australian shores and it has absolutely been worth the wait.

The Echo Show 10 (AU$349) is what Amazon describes as a “complete reimagination of Alexa with a screen and has been upgraded in every way”.

It features a stunning 10-inch, adaptive HD display that automatically stays in view when you interact with Alexa, no matter where you are in the room. It follows you around thanks to a new brushless motor that is completely silent, meaning you won’t hear a thing as Echo Show 10 rotates.

The quality of the screen is one of the most impressive features. You can ask Alexa to make a video call and as you walk around the room, the new 13-megapixel wide-angle

camera pans and zooms automatically to keep you at the center of the frame.

As Echo Show 10 moves, so does its dual, front-firing tweeters and powerful woofer, providing premium, directional sound that automatically adapts to your space, making it great for all kinds of entertainment.

The Echo Show 10 will also rotate as you watch the news, flash briefings, or TV shows from ABC iview, Netflix, Prime Video and other leading platforms.

Another impressive aspect of the Echo Show 10 is that it uses advanced computer vision algorithms to help make your home smarter and more secure.

You can also securely access a live feed on Echo Show 10 from another Echo Show device, or the Alexa app, with the ability

to remotely zoom or pan the display and camera to see the entire room.

Plus, you can also set-up routines, such as automatically turning on the lights when someone enters the room, thanks to partnerships with a ton of technology providers.

If you don’t want the Echo Show 10 to follow you around or turn on cameras to see what is happening in your house when you’re not there, there’s a simple solution too.

You can turn motion off at any time by sliding the built-in camera shutter closed, adjusting settings on-device or in the Alexa app, or just by saying "Alexa, turn off motion". amazon.com

Arlo ups the security ante Arlo Technologies has launched the Essential Indoor Camera, which is now available for those who want superior video surveillance and security.

Featuring an easy-to-control, automated privacy shield, the camera allows users to automatically activate the privacy shield that covers the camera lens, extending Arlo’s commitment to user privacy by delivering unparalleled peace of mind.

The versatile Essential Indoor Camera (AU$159) enables users to monitor babies, pets, elderly family members, restaurants, stock rooms and more, with 1080p HD video, a 130-degree diagonal field-of-view, motion and audio detection and full-duplex audio for two-way conversations. arlo.com WAYFARER 87

Inside Line.

The latest motoring news and accessories from premium brands.

The custom-made Rolls-Royce 'Boat Tail'

MOTORING LIFESTYLE

Boat Tail ices Rolls-Royce’s ultimate bespoke return Rolls-Royce has thrown the covers off the brilliant ‘Boat Tail’ retro-themed custom convertible that pays homage to the British automakers’ tourers of the 1920s and 1930s, which were almost entirely custom-made.

The unique coachbuilt Boat Tail commission, for which a price has not been revealed but is reported to be in the AU$37 million mark, is part of Rolls-Royce’s plans to revive its coachbuilding division.

Rolls-Royce Chief Executive, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, says based on a true commission model, Boat Tail represents a collaborative exploration of luxury, design and culture between the marque and commissioning clients.

“We are proud to unveil Rolls-Royce Boat Tail to the world, and with it, the confirmation of coachbuilding as a permanent fixture within our future portfolio,” he says.

“Historically, coachbuilding had been an integral part of the Rolls-Royce story [and] is a return to the very roots of our brand.

It represents an opportunity for the select few to participate in the creation of utterly unique and truly personal commissions of future historical significance.”

For this bespoke build, a rapid Champagne chiller, integrated umbrella, cocktail tables, carbon-fibre chairs and timepieces from Bovet 1822 are all key elements for what is one of the most exciting cars ever produced

by Rolls-Royce. rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Peugeot roars with the new 2008 GT Peugeot has enhanced its small SUV range with the introduction of a mid-level specification 2008 GT variant.

Priced at AU$38,990, the Peugeot 2008 GT (above) provides Australians with additional choice in the popular range and will attract potential buyers with its value proposition, according to the automaker.

The all-new Peugeot 2008 is the second highest selling model for the brand in 2021 and impressively, the GT features the latestgeneration of Peugeot’s renowned 3D i-Cockpit complete with configurable head-up 3D instrument panel display, high-definition colour touchscreen and compact multi-function steering wheel.

The new Peugeot 2008 GT variant features an impressive list of standard equipment including comprehensive safety features, keyless entry with push-button start and proximity locking, LED daytime running lights, gloss black and dual chrome highlights plus 17” alloy wheels.

Under the hood, the Peugeot 2008 GT is powered by a 1.2-litre, turbocharged, three-cylinder PureTech 130 engine producing 96kW of power at 5,500rpm and 230Nm of torque at 1,750rpm. peugeot.com.au

Audi unleashes the SQ5 Sportback

New arrival: the Audi SQ5 Sportback

Audi Australia is preparing for the arrival of the first-ever Q5 Sportback and SQ5 Sportback vehicles in August 2021.

Topping the range is the SQ5 Sportback TDI, which boasts a 3.0-litre V6 engine with 48v MHEV system and Electric Powered Compressor (EPC), producing an output of 251 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque.

The 3.0 TDI accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Thanks to the efficiency gains provided by the MHEV system, fuel consumption is 7.1 litres per 100km, with CO2 emissions 186 g/km.

Despite its sleek roofline, the luggage compartment of the Q5 Sportback and SQ5 Sportback can accommodate up to 510 litres – just 10 litres less than the SUV bodystyle – while also offering substantial headroom for all occupants. audi.com.au WAYFARER 89

LIFESTYLE MOTORING

Sonos to boost Audi’s latest e-tron Audi and Sonos have signed a premium audio partnership that will see the leading sound experience innovator power the audio in several of the German manufacturer’s vehicles, starting with the upcoming Audi Q4 e-tron.

Sonos CEO, Patrick Spence, said the partnership will see a Sonos-tuned premium sound experience featured in the Q4 e-tron and further models including the A1, Q2 and Q3.

He said this marks Sonos’ first partnership in the automotive space, “demonstrating the company’s commitment to empowering customers to easily enjoy great sound wherever they go”.

“We’ve found in Audi a partner that shares our vision and approach – a company that values innovation and design in the same way Sonos does – and we are proud to introduce this Sonos-tuned premium sound experience in the cabin of the Q4 e-tron.”

The 580-watt Sonos audio system is fed to 10 speakers via two powerful amplifiers and is part of the Audi soundCube, a fully integrated software environment in the new Q4 e-tron, which is now on sale in Europe. sonos.com

Sleek: Genesis’ G70 Shooting Brake

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The stunning, new Audi Q4 e-tron

MOTORING LIFESTYLE

Volvo’s XC40 Electric readies for Australian debut

Nextbase’s impressive full-HD dashcam When Nextbase arrived in the Australasian market last year, the global supplier of dashcams created waves in the market. That’s now been elevated further with the launch of the globally multiawarded premium 622GW 4K model, which records vision in full HD. The 622GW (AU$549) also offers the world-first integrated Alexa voice control, world’s only emergency SOS alerts, and the what3words location system into a truly life-saving, smart device.

As another dashcam first, ​the Nextbase 622GW also records crisp, perfectly lit 4K video with digital image stabilisation which cancels out vibrations from the vehicle and bumpy roads. It also offers bad weather mode, image stabilisation and Enhanced Night Vision. nextbase.com

Genesis’ all-new G70 Shooting Brake Genesis has unveiled the G70 Shooting Brake, which is set to arrive in Australia in the third quarter of 2021.

The new G70 Shooting Brake is based on the G70 sedan revealed last year, combining enhanced practicality with the brand’s award-winning design.

The Shooting Brake name refers to a body style firmly rooted in European automotive history and is the same size as the new G70, measuring in at 4,685mm long, 1,850mm wide and 1,400mm tall, with a 2,835mm wheelbase.

Meanwhile, the luggage space is 40 percent larger than the G70 sedan and its rear seats can be split-folded in versatile 4:2:4 format.

Inheriting its design from the new G70 sedan, the G70 Shooting Brake’s signature Crest Grille is set lower than the Quad Lamps, which spread outward to evoke a sprinter’s pre-race posture and highlight the model’s athletic design.

At the rear, luggage space is maximised by moving the tailgate hinges forward. While the Quad Lamps which underpin the Two Lines signature – the epitome of the Genesis brand identity – extend to the surface of the hatch to create a unique impression. genesis.com

Volvo has released the pricing for its XC40 Recharge Pure Electric compact luxury SUV ahead of its imminent Australian launch.

The XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is Volvo’s first all-electric vehicle and reinforces the Swedish company’s commitment to electrifying its entire car range by 2025, with full electric or plug-in hybrid variants.

In Australia the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, all-wheel drive SUV with an impressive 400-plus km range and packed with the latest safety and infotainment features, will be available in one luxury specification at AU$76,990.

The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is powered by twin 150 kW electric motors on the front and rear axles which provides all wheel drive and an impressive power output of 300 kW and 660Nm fed by a 78kWh lithium-ion battery pack under the floor.

The electric motors power it from zero to 100kmp/h in just 4.9 seconds, making the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric one of the most powerful cars Volvo has produced.

The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is the first vehicle in Australia to come with a fully integrated Google Android Infotainment operating system, with Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play Store built in.

Other standard features include Harmon Kardon Premium Sound System, 20-inch 5V Spoke Matt Graphite Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels, heated seats and a swag of safety features, including City Safety, Collision Warning and Mitigation and Parking Assist.

The vehicle has a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, plus a three-year 100,000-kilometre service wear and tear plan which includes wiper blades, brake pads and brake discs. There’s also eight-year roadside assistance and an eight-year battery warranty. volvocars.com

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LIFESTYLE MOTORING

It took over a hundred years for legendary automakers Aston Martin Lagonda to get into the sports utility vehicle space and it has most certainly been worth the wait because the DBX could just be the greatest SUV to ever take to the streets as James Wilkinson discovers.

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A

ston Martin Lagonda has been recognised as one of the world’s finest automakers in the company’s 107-year history, responsible for producing some of the most legendary vehicles ever, such as the DB5 and DBS. So, when it came to producing the company’s first ever SUV, the DBX, expectations were high for Aston Martin to create yet another masterpiece – after all, anything new that drives out of the factory in St Athan, Wales is going to win global acclaim.

The DBX – which has quickly become the most luxurious, refined, stylish, dynamic and exciting SUV to ever hit roads across the world – is the result of five years’ development, testing and refinement, led by Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman.

What Reichman and the in-house design team have created is a car that is both elegant and dynamic. It delivers the performance of a sports car, with the space of an SUV and as you’d expect, it is wonderfully infused with the brand’s epic attention to detail.

While the DBX has a stunning front – the signature Aston Martin grille is one of the best elements of this design – the rear of the car is brilliant. From the signature rear lights to the upswept flip at the base, the DBX takes a ton of inspiration from the company’s most focused sportscar, the Vantage, and it oozes so much style and sophistication.

When you’re behind the wheel, you’ll feel the full force of the 4-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine that’s also found in

the DB11 and Vantage – which produces a thumping 542bhp and 700Nm of torque, rocketing the DBX to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds – while also enjoying a luxurious and spacious cabin.

The perfect blend of what you could ever want in an SUV? Absolutely. And that’s further accentuated with the fastback exterior styling that features a lower, sleeker roofline, because on many angles, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re standing in front of a sports car and not a vehicle that can go off-road driving.

“DBX is an SUV that does not compromise beauty or performance for practicality or usability,” Reichman says.

“It has been designed to deliver on the proportions that meet the criteria for beauty that we would always apply to the form language of any Aston Martin.

“It has been created to be elegant, purposeful and unique in its uncompromising beauty. The considered ergonomics guarantee a cabin that is both easy to access and cossetting to be in.

“We have worked hard to deliver a sense of safety and protection, allowing you to indulge in DBX’s driving experience in comfort… DBX truly redefines the SUV segment.”

Sure, there is some marketing spiel in Reichman’s comments, but he has a great point because this car has quite simply redefined the SUV segment.

Thanks to adaptive triple volume air suspension, which has been combined with the latest 48v electric anti-roll control system (eARC) and electronic adaptive dampers, the DBX is incredibly versatile. >>

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LIFESTYLE MOTORING

There is the capacity to raise the ride height by 45mm or lower it by 50mm, so one moment you could be driving the DBX as you would do a DB11 and the next, you are in full off-road mode, heading through grassy paddocks and along dirt roads.

The air suspension gives you the confidence to challenge a wide range of terrain, particularly in various weather conditions such as snow, and impressively, it maintains a comfortable ride even when the DBX is raised at the highest level.

Thanks to the long wheelbase, the DBX offers plenty of space in the cabin for front and rear passengers. In fact, it is the first ever full-size, 5-seat model Aston Martin has produced, making it adaptable, versatile and accommodating to ride with the whole family onboard.

There is best-in-class headroom and legroom, adding to the comfort, while the DBX is also light-filled, courtesy of a full-length panoramic roof and frameless door glass. Thanks to the use of sports car seat packaging in the front, which not only provides the driver with exceptional support and long-distance driving comfort, those sitting in the back will love the knee and footwell clearance.

The seats feature stylish, full grain leather, sourced from long-term partner Bridge of Weir, while in an industry first, both the headlining and electric roof blind are available in a luxurious Alcantara finish, providing a harmonious design.

Throughout the cabin, DBX also maintains an authenticity of materials, with judicious use of metal, glass and wood throughout the cabin, according to Reichman.

Style is also at the forefront when it comes to bridged centre console between the front seats, which offers flexible

Expect Aston Martin's signature luxury touches inside and out

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storage in an architectural centrepiece. Impressively, as part of ‘Q by Aston Martin’, the brand’s personalisation service, optional features of this centre console can be machined from a solid piece of wood, such as Walnut, for added tactility.

In fact, a range of wood, composite and metal veneers ensure that the cabin can be tailored to any taste, including a range of innovative materials and an industry first application of a fabric made from 80% wool.

There’s also an abundance of technology inside the DBX, including a 10.25-inch TFT screen in the centre console, while even bigger 12.3-inch TFT screen provides information aplenty to the driver. There’s also a 360-degree camera system and ambient lighting that offers 64 different colours in two zones, alongside expected features like Apple CarPlay interactivity.

Down the back, find significant boot space, 632 litres in fact, and thanks to 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, the DBX has the flexible load capacity you’d expect of any SUV in its class. It can carry a wide range of luggage – from suitcases to golf clubs, skis and more – in a practical and cleanly designed space.

“We’ve successfully managed to achieve a package with the proportions and mechanical layout that allow sports car styling to be applied to a versatile, five-seat vehicle in a beautiful way,” Reichman says.

He’s absolutely right, because the DBX is a perfect mix of power and passion for lovers of Aston Martin automobiles and a brilliant debut into the SUV segment by one of the greatest luxury brands of all time. astonmartin.com

MOTORING LIFESTYLE

The Aston Martin DBX is brilliant on the freeway and the gravel

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MOTORING LIFESTYLE

French elegance Peugeot’s latest release of the top-of-the-line 5008 SUV has upped the ante for the French automaker, with the 2021 model picking up some major enhancements that make it even greater value for money.

F

rench automaker Peugeot’s latest release of the popular 5008 SUV, which has had more than 300,000 produced globally since its 2017 launch, is helping elevate the model to new heights thanks to a range of style, drive and technology enhancements.

The latest 5008 SUV – available in one single model grade, GT, with a choice of efficient petrol or diesel engines – boasts new styling in the form of a frameless grille and revised signature lighting, alongside the introduction of Peugeot’s next-generation digital i-Cockpit technology, featuring an improved 12.3-inch digital head-up instrument panel, and a centrally-mounted 10inch, high-definition, capacitive colour touchscreen for increased functionality.

The new 10-inch touchscreen is underscored by seven elegant piano ‘toggle switches’ giving direct access to the car’s main control functions, including the audio system, navigation, climate controls and vehicle settings.

The new exterior lighting both looks good and adds a lot of practicality. The re-designed headlights, which give a more purposeful appearance, feature daytime running lights and indicators all using advanced LED technology.

At the rear, Peugeot’s trademark ‘three-claw’ tail lights have been updated to full LED technology and new sequential indicators provide a contemporary look. The rear lights also feature smoked glass lenses, extending the black boot strip on either side.

Full connectivity is assured for the 5008 SUV, too, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorScreen standard across both model ranges.

Also find two rear passenger-accessible USB sockets and, for maximum

listening pleasure, a 515-watt, 10-speaker FOCAL premium audio system on the 5008 GT Diesel.

Inside the 5008 SUV, also expect refreshed styling, even more technology and driver assistance systems to further increase its appeal.

The new 5008 GT Diesel also comes with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop and Go technology that is able to bring the vehicle to a complete stop and move it away again - from stationary and in stop-start traffic.

Lane Position Assist, which is linked to the ACC, helps ensure the 5008 GT Diesel stays safely centred within its lane. Owners also benefit from the latest-generation Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) technology that works between 5km/h and 140km/h.

Peugeot Australia General Manager, Kate Gillis, says the latest upgrade for the 5008 SUV only serve to increase its already-strong appeal.

“The 5008 SUV has been popular from the day it was launched, and these upgrades bring a strong, refreshed look and feel, while maintaining its French flair and charm,” she says.

The new Peugeot 5008 SUV is available in either a turbocharged petrol engine or a turbo-diesel powerplant.

Peugeot’s 1.6-litre PureTech 165 turbocharged four-cylinder engine with multi-point direct fuel-injection and variable valve timing (inlet valves), develops 121 kilowatts of power at 6000rpm and 240 Newton metres of torque at 1400rpm.

There’s also the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 180 four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with high-pressure, common rail direct-injection and a stop and start system, developing 131 kilowatts of power at 3750rpm and 400 Newton metres of torque at 2000rpm.

The petrol engine features a sixspeed automatic transmission, while the diesel is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard equipment on both variants includes 18-inch diamond-cut Storm Grey ‘Detroit’ alloy wheels (GT Petrol) or 19-inch Matte Onyx ‘San Francisco’ alloy wheels (GT Diesel), Black Diamond roof, Adaptive Cruise Control, full LED headlamps, Alcantara and leather-effect upholstery. peugeot.com.au

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Coming up next What you can expect in the mid-Spring issue of Wayfarer magazine, distributed globally in October.

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BRILLIANT VINES Our guide to some of the world’s best wineries

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Escape to one of the world’s most stunning natural playgrounds right here in Australia.

Surrounded by the spectacular Snowy Mountains, with a host of activities, experiences and boutique accommodation choices, unforgettable memories are waiting to be made.

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