Crystalbrook Byron – Hotel Review

A sapphire-blue infinity pool fringed with daybeds, a fine-dining restaurant that works with local farmers and sun-drenched suites set in 18 hectares of subtropical rainforest. There are many reasons to book a stay at Crystalbrook Byron (formerly Byron at Byron; crystalbrookcollection.com/byron). But the most compelling is the resort’s three-night Relax & Retreat package that allows guests to create their own mini wellness breaks, complete with spa treatments, poolside yoga classes and beauty consultations. The resort is just a 10-minute drive from the happening centre of Byron Bay, but with a beach on your doorstep and airy suites that feature private verandahs, kitchenettes and deep baths, you may never want to leave.

The location

Crystalbrook Byron is about 30 minutes north of Ballina Airport and about 50 minutes south of the Gold Coast Airport, making it easy to access from either direction. The buzzing bars, restaurants, cafés and boutiques of Byron Bay are a short 10 minutes drive away.

The rooms

There are no rooms at Crystalbrook Byrone – just 92 suites with separate living rooms, well-equipped kitchenettes, private outdoor sitting areas and shiny bathrooms with freestanding baths. Big shutter windows bathe the space in plenty of natural lights, while sliding doors with fly screens mean you can let the fresh sea breeze in without any unwelcome creepy crawlies. At 65 square metres, even the smallest suites offer plenty of real estate but if you want to spread out, opt for the two-bedroom interconnecting Treetop Luxe suites that feature four private verandahs and are located closest to the beach.

Food & drink

More than 80 per cent of the onsite restaurant Forest’s ingredients are sourced from local producers, with sustainably sourced seafood and free-range protein starring in dishes like chargrilled Yamba prawns with chilli and Bangalow pork with truffle. The fine-diner is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is located right in the heart of the resort next to the pool, making it a great spot for people-watching. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more relaxed, nab a table at Verandah by Forest next door.

For business travellers

Crystalbrook Byron is well placed for a full corporate takeover with large conference rooms and state-of-the-art AV facilities. Experienced staff not only cater to every need when you’re “working” but also take care of your downtime by organising activities ranging from surfing lessons, whale watching and kayaking to art classes and tai chi sessions. 

For wellness travellers

If the resort’s sprawling pool and regular yoga classes don’t instill a sense of calm, the onsite Eléme Day Spa will. Choose from a large menu of face and body treatments. Just don’t forget to try the spa’s infrared sauna that’s believed to help with anti-ageing and collagen-boosting.

The fab factor

Follow the boardwalk and explore acres of soaring paperbarks, cypress pines and Bangalow palms at the property.

SEE ALSO: 5 of the Best Things to Do in Byron Bay