You only have a couple of days spare… and you want to take a break. Well, Norfolk Island is the perfect place to do it! But how should you spend 60 hours on Norfolk Island?
When travelling to Norfolk Island from Australia, most people would consider it domestic travel, but you actually leave from the international airport. This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on some duty free items (just make sure you are travelling with a passport). Alternately you can use any form of Photo ID to travel to Norfolk, as long as you are an Australian resident. Whether you are departing from Sydney or Brisbane, your flight is no longer than two and a half hours which is just enough time to rest before your weekend of dining, exploring and relaxation begins.
Being a small town with community vibes, Norfolk Island can make you feel like you are a world away from reality with great food and friendly locals. The first thing you notice when coming in to land on Norfolk are the rolling green hills and the turquoise blue ocean. With this island image zooming in, the thought of exploring this wonderful place boggles your mind.
When you arrive at the Norfolk Island Airport, you will be greeted by your accommodation host or tour company who will transfer you to your accommodation. We do recommend hiring a car while on island to allow you to explore at your own leisure.
Once you have settled into your accommodation, it's time to take a short drive to the town centre to pick up some supplies and gather information for the weekend. First stop should be the Visitor Information Centre where the staff can make any reservations or bookings for you for a worry-free weekend. Next stop is the Liquor Mart in case you didn't purchase any duty free supplies. Here you can pick up weekend supplies and use your travellers 20% off discount for any spirits which you might like to take home.
As dusk approaches your first dining experience awaits at a local favourite The Homestead Restaurant. The majority of food on Norfolk is grown or caught locally so throughout the year there is an abundance of seasonal organic produce. You will most definitely taste the difference.
Need another drink to kick start your weekend? Why not visit Norfolk's newest bar The Black Anchor. In addition to boutique beers and wine, they also mix some spectacular cocktails, with the Espresso Martini one of their specialties.
Whilst here for the weekend, make sure you visit the local markets. Bright and early Saturday morning is the Farmer's Markets where you will find all of the local produce but you need to be quick as it all moves pretty fast.
Most retail shops on Norfolk traditionally close half day Saturday and close on Sundays, so Saturday morning is a great time for shopping! From shoes, to toys, to locally made liquors, and some of the finest jewellery you'll ever see, there is always something for everyone.
Depending on whether you want to relax or be adventurous, the rest of your weekend can be filled with whatever you like.
For the adventurous, we have the most wonderful - untouched nature from pine tree forests through to sub-tropical rainforests and dramatic cliff faces. The best way to experience them is hiking the Norfolk Island National Park trails for varying fitness levels. Our favourite is the Bridle Track, with spectacular views from all angles! After your hike, satisfy your appetite in the town centre at one of the many cafes waiting to serve you up some special dishes.
If you prefer a relaxing time, spend the morning enjoying a pamper treatment at one of our beauty spas or salons, or wander through the local art Galleries. Gallery Guava and the Fletcher's Mutiny Cyclorama are not to be missed.
For the history lovers, there are a handful of museums located in World Heritage Listed Kingston. The penal settlement in Kingston was once dubbed as 'Hell in Paradise' but the spectacular scenery surrounding you soon makes you feel as though you have found Paradise.
Saturday afternoon is the perfect time to visit the iconic Emily Bay beach for a swim, snorkel, or just a stroll. As the day goes on, and the sun starts to disappear, find yourself a lovely patch of grass either at Puppies Point, Anson Bay or Kingston where you can lay out a blanket and break open a bottle wine. Order a platter from Picnic in Paradise for the ultimate afternoon.
The night is yours to enjoy a dining experience at a local restaurant like The Homestead Restaurant, Hilli Restaurant, or Bounty Bar & Grill. You definitely won't be disappointed with the flavour of the paddock to plate local produce!
Indulge yourself with a Sunday morning sleep in. Enjoy a morning coffee and breakfast at one of the local cafes before heading to the Arts & Craft Markets where you will find locally crafted Norfolk pine products, hand crafted items, home cooking, photography, and even a local talented musician. Soak up the market atmosphere and chat to the local stallholders.
Sunday afternoons on Norfolk are what locals call 'island pace'. But if you don't feel like taking it easy, then we have a few options to satisfy your desire.
First option is a High Tea served on the magnificent lawns at Forrester Court. This multi-award-winning family property is positioned on the clifftops overlooking Cascade Bay. A stunning view you won't be disappointed in. Second option is a tasting at the award winning Two Chimneys Winery who are the only winery on the island. Both options are a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
There are several options for Sunday night's dinner but you can't go past a casual bistro meal. The RSL Bistro, Bowlo Bistro or Leagues Club Bistro provide freshly prepared local produce, great service and the option of dining both indoors or outdoors. Enjoy a few club priced drinks to toast your last night on the island.
Monday morning arrives and the time has come to pack your bags as you reflect on the much-needed holiday just experienced. Enjoy brunch at The Olive Cafe who have some great meal choices and excellent coffee. Lastly you need to make sure your luggage is checked-in at the Airport at least 1.5 hours before your departure.
Norfolk may be a small island but there so many things to do that 60 hours can just vanish! But that leaves plenty of options when you return for your next visit!