Lo Scoglio Byron Bay

Sicilian Roots, Australian Spirit: An Exclusive Byron Bay Villa Rental that Feels Like Tuscany

Inspired by the rustic family charm of the owner’s Italian roots and constructed following regenerative principles by local artisans, this full-service villa nestled in Coopers Shoot within the Byron Bay Hinterland extends the legacy of an original farmhouse secluded on two lush acres.

Rustic yet luxurious, the renovated estate (a main farmhouse and new guest studio in the garden) is named Lo Scoglio or “the rock” for its distinctively Australian setting, anchored firmly in the landscape. It bears the moniker in Italian, though, for its architectural and interior design inspiration from Sicily, and the property was also created expressly for serenity and wellness.

The property brims with Italian vintage treasures (from mid-century chairs to a 19th-century mirror) and antiques from around the globe (Oushak rugs, 18th-century Spanish ironworks, a Ligne Roset Togo sofa and footstool) curated in collaboration with interiors experts Tigmi Trading. Its main villa features four bedrooms plus there’s a romantic stone and timber retreat, Le Scoglio Piccolo, out back with terraces and a fire pit, 100-year-old hardwood floors, an exposed stone kitchenette, Italian furnishings, and custom Tigmi pieces. The kitchen is clad in Italian marble.

A full-service, staffed property, it is focused on rejuvenation and wellness, and the personalized concierge service attends to all needs within three hours. The house has its own pool, spa, yoga deck, gym, ice bath, and infrared sauna, and the concierge can arrange for one-on-one sessions with a private trainer or therapist. Other services available on request include private air charter, private transfers, on-site massage, holistic and aesthetic medical services, acupuncture, nutritionist and private chef.

Despite its secluded charm, Lo Scoglio is close to Byron Bay’s vibrant scene and Bangalow’s village life. The villa accommodates up to 12 guests.

Around

A 10-minute drive to the town of Byron Bay, and about five minutes to the lively village of Bangalow, the property offers insulation from the urban scene as well as easy access to food, fashion, services, and nightlife. There are 270-degree hilltop views from the villa and pool scape, making both sunrises and sunsets must sees, drink in hand, from the view deck. In fact, views are what make Coopers Shoot, an enclave set high on the rolling hills behind Byron Bay overlooking the ocean. Nearby Bangalow (15 minutes) is a picturesque, creative community distinguished by its Federation-style architecture. Surrounded by farmland and fruit and macadamia orchards, Bangalow is about 15 minutes inland from Byron on NSW’s North Coast. It's wrapped in rainforest and groves of namesake palms, and there are dozens of trails leading to waterfalls and lookouts that offer glimpses of the Pacific. In town, breweries, casual restaurants, and family-run cafes, join outfitters and boutiques in a low-key, friendly setting.

Outdoorsy types will love Minyon Falls, about 30 minutes from Bangalow in Nightcap National Park. A 100-meter cascade, Minyon Falls' dense forest is part of the UNESCO-designated Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Coffee is also cultivated around Bangalow and the property, so count on a handful of local roasters and coffeehouses with rich local brews.

Bigger, better-known Byron Bay is no stranger to tourism. It offers miles of beaches, great surfing, and stunning scuba-diving sites. The city is home to a Conservation Park on a headland with its landmark lighthouse, and whale watchers gather in the city between June and November each year to observe the humpback whale migration.

Location

Nearest airport: Ballina (15 miles)

Best time to visit

October to April