Hiking: The lodge provides guided walks to the summit of Mt Gower, rated as one of the world’s best day hikes. The walk takes about eight hours and requires a good level of fitness and agility. The reward is a spectacular view of the island and its surrounding waters, as well as a chance to see some of the island’s endemic plants and animals. The lodge also offers guided walks to other scenic spots on the island, such as Malabar Hill, Transit Hill and Little Island.
Snorkelling and diving: The lodge provides snorkelling gear and kayaks for guests to explore the island’s coral reef, which is part of the world’s southernmost coral reef system. The reef hosts over 500 species of fish and 90 species of coral, and offers snorkellers and divers a colourful and diverse underwater world. The lodge also arranges boat trips to some of the best snorkelling and diving sites on the island, such as the Admiralty Islands, Erscott’s Hole and Ball’s Pyramid.
Biking: The lodge provides bicycles for guests to explore the island at their own pace. Bikes are the main mode of transport on the island, as there are no public buses or taxis. The island has a network of roads and tracks that are ideal for biking, and offer scenic views of the ocean and mountains. Bikes are also a great way to visit the island’s shops, cafes and museum.
Fishing: The lodge provides fishing gear for guests who want to try their luck in catching some of the island’s fish, such as tuna, kingfish, trevally, wahoo and marlin. Fishing enthusiasts can fish from the shore or jetty, or join fishing charters that take them to some of the best fishing spots on the island. Fishing is subject to strict regulations on the island, and guests are advised to check with the lodge staff before fishing.
Golf: The lodge provides golf clubs for guests who want to play a round of golf on the island’s nine-hole golf course. The course is located on the edge of the lagoon, and offers scenic views of the ocean and mountains. The course also offers challenges such as sand traps, water hazards and wind gusts. Golfers can enjoy a drink or a snack at the golf club after their game.
Birdwatching: The lodge provides binoculars and bird books for guests who want to spot some of the island’s birds, many of which are endemic or endangered. The island is home to over 200 species of birds, including seabirds such as terns, petrels, shearwaters and boobies; land birds such as currawongs, woodhens and silvereyes; and migratory birds such as cuckoos, swifts and raptors. The lodge also organises birdwatching tours with local experts who can share their knowledge and passion for the island’s avian life.
Spa: The lodge has a petite spa that offers island-inspired treatments using Australian-made Li’Tya spa products and local ingredients such as kelp and volcanic stone. Guests can relax and rejuvenate with massages, facials, body wraps, scrubs and baths. The spa also has a Jacuzzi that overlooks Lovers Bay and Mt Lidgbird.