Last week I escaped the winter chill to have a mini-break with my partner as we are celebrating our anniversary. The brief: somewhere
*not too far or difficult to fly and get to
*somewhere warmer than Sydney
*somewhere we could have long walks every day
*somewhere we could eat well
* somewhere I could shop if I felt like it
*maybe catch up with some friends?
Answer: Noosa!
So we got online and booked our flights. Then I booked my all-time favourite accommodation – the Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort.
I have fond memories of it over many, many years – staying there for a Noosa Great Gourmet Adventure, when I twice judged the Noosa Good Food and Wine Awards (even offering to change my name to Lyndey Noosa), launching the Hot & Spicy Festival as the last Chilli Queen from its roof, descending from a helicopter in a puff of smoke, before riding up and down Hastings Street on a Harley Davidson dressed in my chilli Queen finery, when I MCed the whole of the first ever Noosa Food and Wine Festival and on many other occasions.
I really like its location on Hastings Street, pool area complete with bar in the water, really big rooms with plenty of space for two people to sit side by side with laptops (never too far away from work) and yet with a table, lounge area, balcony and discreet bathroom with a walk- shower (as well as a spa tub) and sensible ordinary hot and cold taps! Not to mention a view of the pool.
Our Room
Then it was off to lunch to Sails Beach Restaurant. I think it is always best to get your beach “fix” first up. Even in cloudy weather, the view is lovely and a great way to start the break. Tempting as it was to start with one of the appealing appetisers, I went straight to Entrees for Pork and Prawn, caramelised Kingaroy pork and coconut poached Mooloolaba prawns, local pineapple, peanut ($26), three mouthfuls of hot/sweet/sour delight.
Caramelised Kingaroy pork and coconut poached Mooloolaba prawns, local pineapple, peanut
I was pleased to see so much local product featured so for mains I went for the Moreton Bay Bugs, roasted butternut puree, braised leeks, bacon and hazelnut ($45). Each element was kept distinct and I really appreciated the lightness and balance of the dish.
Moreton Bay Bugs, roasted butternut puree, braised leeks, bacon and hazelnut
There is an incredible wine list of Australian and international wines, from three cellars: Aromatic, Chardonnay and Rumba, with plenty by the glass, a bin end list and half bottles. We were very happy with our choice of Springvale Melrose from Tasmania ($52).
