Blackbird Byron

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise

This was the song playing as we arrived at Blackbird, a beautiful boutique bed and breakfast located in the Byron Hinterland; it could not have felt more perfect. If you haven’t been to Blackbird, you’ll want to. And if you’ve already been, you’ll want to go back.

The winding drive that leads up to the property is lined with tall cane that hugged us all the way along until they road opened up, with the property perched ahead of us, overlooking the most spectacular view.

A home away from home with five-star vibes, these guys have absolutely nailed the balance between feeling like you’ve arrived in absolute luxury while still feeling totally comfortable helping yourself to a drink. We walked into the pool area and were invited to make ourselves at home. An outstretched hand provided two cold glasses of champagne.

As we took our first sips, gazing out over the views of Mt. Chincogan, Cape Byron. and across to the Pacific ocean in the distance, the quiet washed over us. The sun was shining, the sky blue and not a cloud to be seen. I already didn’t want to leave, could I stay forever? Would anyone notice?

Victoria, the general manager felt like someone we’d known for years. She reminded me of my friend’s utterly fabulous mum. Warm, friendly and relaxed, we were welcomed like long lost family (albeit a family who live in five star luxury!) I loved chatting to her about the property and all the little details we might have otherwise missed.

From the initial booking process, managing to nab a one night stay and throughout our time there we felt looked after, the whole team put us at ease from the moment we arrived. They’re clearly very proud of the space they’ve created, as they should be!

The property itself, we were told, is designed to keep you as close to nature as possible; the dining area and kitchen are open to the elements allowing the most spectacular view for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The bathroom next to the pool even allows for some late night stargazing.

The rooms are designed to be totally private so you can sit outside and enjoy the view during the day and see the starry sky at night. The interior design and decor is an absolute dream, lots of white walls and earthy linen; little details like the handmade soaps in the shower, bamboo toothbrushes and charcoal toothpaste didn't go unnoticed. Everything in the room aims to encompass the Blackbird way of minimising waste. The overwhelming amount of waste is always the most terrifying thing I’ve found in five-star hotels, so I loved this aspect of what they’re doing here. Inside the bedroom they had magazines for us to read, including one of my favourites, FRANK as well as a book about stargazing. There was also delicious local produce and cold drinks available for us to help ourselves to with an honesty system to keep track of what we had; little details go a long way!

We had a cheese board waiting for us in our room and we were booked in for dinner that night with a private chef serving a three-course meal accompanied by a cocktail bar and one of the best margaritas I’ve ever had. There really was no reason to leave the property until check out the next morning (if they could drag me out).

This was a stay that lasted only 24 hours but made a huge impact. With so many well thought out details, it felt like there was something new to discover at every turn. I would still be there now if they weren’t almost fully booked out for the rest of the year!

I’m planning my next trip back already.

Book your stay here