LET THERE BE LIGHT
Let there be Light - Luxury Travel Magazine
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Let there be Light | |||||
| By: Lorraine Ironside, Issue 37 – Summer 2009 | |||||
| (Chandeliers on Abbey – Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia) | |||||
| THIS DESIGNER RETREAT ILLUMINATES THE MARGARET RIVER. | |||||
| The Margaret River occupies a firm foothold on the savvy traveller’s map with good reason; it’s an appealing pastiche of pristine forests, sensational surf, some of Australia’s outstanding vineyards, award-winning restaurants and a range of accommodation tailored to every pocket, from regal to rustic. Chandeliers on Abbey is among the latest offerings, and fits neatly into the former category. Billed as an adults-only retreat, it occupies a pole position in the region; close to the corrugated coast and within a cork’s pop of some of the best wineries on the map. Three self-contained bungalow-style retreats are tucked into a fold of the undulating landscape, artfully arranged within the 20ha property to enjoy complete privacy and offering wrap- around views of a hillside speckled with sheep and a backdrop of lofty gums and native karris. Each contains what the owners describe as entertainment, pleasure and relaxation zones; the 21st century equivalent, one presumes, of living, bed and bathroom spaces. Décor is muted, a coffee-and-cream palette enlivened by splashes of colour in cushions and throws, while the custom-built leather modular sofa lend a retro edge. Techno-savvy couples find a state-of- the-art entertainment centre promises a dazzling array of options, both aural and visual, while a well-equipped kitchen allows the opportunity to tackle the stand-out local produce. If donning an apron doesn’t appeal, gourmet platters or hampers can be arranged, or award-winning chef Grieg Olsen will call to prepare a three-course meal utilizing Albany oysters, Mt Barker chicken, Harvey beef and Margaret River venison. At Chandeliers on Abbey minimalism is the keynote; bedrooms are sleek, with king-size leather bed and imported chandelier – hence the name – while jumbo-size marble bathrooms indulge with double indoor rainshower and spa-bath. A timber deck presents handsome wicker lounges and valley views; one retreat incorporates an outdoor heated plunge pool. In Margaret River the region is as much the star as any accommodation option – it offers great surf breaks, walks through the wind-pruned bush, world-class wineries, whale-watching, beach strolling, abseiling, caving and a plethora of art galleries. Chandeliers on Abbey augments this welter of attractions by arranging in-house spa therapies, a personal trainer to conduct Pilates classes in the retreat’s manicured gardens, horse-riding through the adjoining national park or helicopter flights to local vineyards for lunch. Golfers have the ultimate in personal service with co- owner Glenn Parry who has coached and caddied for r Craig and Robert Allenby. | |||||
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Chandeliers on Abbey | |||||
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