BANNISTERS DEBUTS IN PORT STEPHENS

Adding a touch of glamour to the coastal scene at Port Stephens is the new Bannisters Port Stephens on the beachfront of Soldiers Point. This third Bannisters luxury boutique hotel in New South Wales features 78 rooms, four luxury suites and a penthouse. The hotel has been designed to take advantage of its water and bushland surrounds. From the lobby with its impressive oak-panelled walls, guests can wander out to an infinity pool overlooking the sea, and on to the casual eatery, The Terrace Bar. On the lower level, also enjoying water views, is the fine dining restaurant Rick Stein at Bannisters by Sarah and Rick Stein, run by head chef Mitchell Turner who has worked closely with Rick Stein to create a menu that features the local and bountiful seafood of the region. Sarah Stein worked with interior designer Romy Alwill on the restaurant’s design to include elements from Rick’s overseas restaurants and to also reflect the Australian environment. Prices start from $290 per room, per night. bannisters.com.au