Basq House, Byron Bay: A Hotel Review
Lux Nomade checks into the newly opened Basq House, a 32-room boutique hotel located in idyllic Byron Bay, and on Bundjalung Country.
You know those venues where the photos look stunning, and then you arrive only to be let down by the reality? Well, Basq House in Byron Bay is the exact opposite—it’s even better in person.
From the moment I walked through the entrance, I felt an immediate blend of sophistication, homely warmth, and a bohemian creative spirit. The fire was already on in the lobby, casting a warm glow over a couple playing chess among an eclectic backdrop of local artwork, cosy couches, and ceramics. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, thanks to the creative eye of local interior designer Léo Terrando. As I checked in, I was warmly greeted by the friendly staff, who instantly put me at ease. They poured me a welcome glass of Blanc de Blanc from behind the bar, setting the tone for the relaxing, yet luxurious weekend ahead.
My room was everything I’d hoped for—minimalist yet spacious, with a private balcony. Small touches like a hand-written note on the pillow and a perfectly dimmed lighting setup created an ambiance of calm and care. If you’re in the mood for a laid-back weekend, this is the perfect spot to unwind. The room came with all the essentials: room service, a flat-screen TV, cosy robes, and a nice little surprise—bottled Negronis from Maybe Sammy, one of Sydney’s top cocktail bars. I arrived late in the evening, but these small, thoughtful gestures made me feel immediately at home.
After a rejuvenating hot shower, I ventured downstairs to explore the shared spaces. One of the things I quickly appreciated about Basq House was the sense of community it fosters, something I love when travelling overseas. In the lobby, I found guests scattered around the room—some quietly reading by the fire, others engaging in warm conversation, while some simply enjoyed a hot cup of tea. I struck up a chat with Laura, one of the incredible staff members behind the counter, as I sipped on a glass of wine. The hotel’s bar menu offers a simple but refined selection of local and international wines, along with a few basic snacks—just enough to tie me over until dinner.
And that’s another thing that makes Basq House special—it’s located right in the heart of Byron Bay, which means you’re just a short walk from some of the area’s best restaurants. That night, I decided to dine out and visited one of my favourite spots, the top three being: Mez Club for its lively atmosphere, shared style food and craft cocktails, Moonshine as I have a soft spot for Japanese and Bang Bang for a fantastic Asian-inspired menu. Each restaurant is as vibrant as the town itself, balancing delicious food, a buzzy vibe, and beautifully crafted drinks.
Returning to the hotel after a long day, I sank into the comfort of the plush king-size bed and turned on a movie. Within minutes, I was fast asleep, the kind of deep, restful sleep.
The next morning, I indulged in one of my favourite weekend rituals—coffee and a pastry. Basq House truly excels in the details, and the coffee was no exception. With a choice between freshly brewed batch coffee or barista-made espresso (and I can confirm, it was very good), I enjoyed my morning in the hotel’s cosy library. The setting was perfect for doing a bit of light work—surrounded by beautiful artwork, with other guests quietly working or reading in the serene space. For a more substantial breakfast, I highly recommend stepping out to one of Byron’s many cafes. If you’re visiting during the week, High Life should be your go-to for its excellent coffee, satisfying even the snobbiest of coffee drinkers. And on weekends, you can’t go wrong with The General Store—friendly service, fantastic coffee, and an all-around great vibe. For those craving a beach view with their breakfast, The Hum is the place to be.
As I continued to work in the library, I noticed an interesting mix of fellow guests—couples enjoying a romantic escape, solo travellers deep in creative work, and a few individuals clearly here for business, just like me. This diversity gave the hotel a unique charm, making it feel both intriguing and inclusive, like a welcoming retreat for anyone, no matter the purpose of their stay.
Exploring more of Byron Bay and strolling through the bustling streets I stopped for lunch at Azure, a restaurant in Elements Resort. Their native-inspired menu did not disappoint, making it the perfect lunch stop before heading back to Basq House.
Later in the day, with the sun shining, I spent a few hours lounging by the hotel’s magnesium pool, sprawled out on a daybed. The pool area was idyllic—other guests were sunbathing, reading books, and sipping margaritas, all enjoying the warm afternoon together. One of the things I loved most about my stay was how versatile the hotel is—it felt equally perfect during a rainy, cosy evening by the fire as it did on a sun-drenched afternoon by the pool.
And let’s not forget the practicalities—Basq House has convenient underground parking, which, if you’re familiar with Byron Bay, is an absolute must, especially during the busier periods. The hotel’s 32 boutique rooms make it an intimate experience without feeling too small, offering the perfect blend of luxury and warmth.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway to do some deep creative work, a romantic, kid-free escape, or a base for work travel, Basq House ticks all the boxes. It manages to embody the best of Byron Bay—relaxed yet refined, communal yet private, creative yet serene. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning my next visit.
This is one place I will absolutely be returning to
Rooms start from $425 per night. For more information and bookings visit https://basqhouse.com.au/
