Nestled into the hillside, just a short walk from the glistening bay, 'The Bunker' gifted us a rare feeling of opulence amidst its spacious luxury. With the winter sun pouring across the rooftop deck of this three-level beach house, sunbeams divinely pierced through the clouds of steam that rose from the suspended all-seasons pool.

I couldn't help but notice my worries melt away as I stepped into the warm water, nursing my morning coffee as I gazed out across the stand of tea-tree that stretches to the horizon. There's something peaceful in the air up there; perhaps the connection with its green surroundings, a harmony I hadn't expected from such an architecturally designed abode. And therein lay the invitation to rest and recharge; an invite we gladly accepted.

After rock pool meanderings and barefoot beach walks, we regrouped at the villa, sharing laughter and lasagna at the grand timber table, before cosying up on the sprawling couch for dessert by the fire. While the kids made the most of games aplenty we soaked up the opportunity to retreat to one of the many comfy nooks with a good read or a glass of Peninsula wine.

Twinkling festoon lights and the pool illuminated from below enticed us back outside to the alfresco lounge, where we watched the full moon play hide-and-seek in the clouds. Then content as ever we headed for our comfy King beds, counted our lucky stars and called it a day. Needless to say, perhaps even the most avid adventurers need a little luxury now and then!