Flawless! I've been fortunate to have stayed in some amazing hotels all around the world. Bells at Killcare leaves most of them in the dust! After a particularly busy six months, my husband and I really needed some time out. We knew Bells had a five star reputation, but five stars doesn't adequately describe our experience - this was 10 stars! From the incredible wait staff in the restaurant, to the beautiful ladies in the spa, to the front desk and the bar, the service was charming, but not obsequious or obvious, helpful and ready to attend to your every need and request. Bells has rave reviews everywhere you look about the food, but the breakfasts and dinners eclipsed our expectations. Let's start with the breakfast: fresh, crunchy French pastries baked in their own bakery, were as good as any you'd get in Paris, poached eggs cooked to perfection with lashings of mouthwatering smoked trout. The omelette I had this morning with gruyere and smoked ham was so delicious I knew I was going to fantasize about it long after it had been gobbled down. We had two incredible dinners in the restaurant and my husband said his duck pie on the first night was one of the best duck dishes he'd ever eaten with flaky pastry and a rich, glossy sauce. From the mashed potato to the sand whiting I ate, I can't fault any aspect of the meal. I have to give a shout-out to Rose and Angela in the Spa. As a longtime health and beauty editor, I have had many treatments in my life, but the massage I had was so nurturing and relaxing that I dropped off several times and woke myself with a couple of snores (the mark of deep relaxation in my book). Rose brought a level of presence and generosity to the massage that I've rarely felt, even in the world's best spas. Finally, I have to talk about the accommodation. We stayed in one of the Lodges and it was superb. From the comfy and inviting lounge, warmed by the gentle flame of the fireplace, to the roomy bathrooms (with wonderful granite bathtubs, which we both took advantage of), to the magnesium plunge pool and incredibly comfortable beds with ample pillows, the entire house presented an invitation to relax and unwind. The design of these larger lodges has been curated for relaxed luxury. Nothing felt precious or stiff, but at the same time, it was elevated enough to make you feel like you were in a hotel. After all, who wants a holiday destination to feel like you're slumming it at home? This is not that! It's so much more. Every detail of Bells at Killcare has been considered, but it's done so well that it's not self-conscious or cloying - it's Australian luxury travel at its absolute best. Would we go there again? In a heartbeat! 10 out of 10 stars.
Review by Nikki G 02.07.2026
