Bushwalkers need not worry about snakes on Lord Howe Island. Photo: Lord Howe Island Tourism association

This subtropical island just two hours flight from Sydney is a 11-kilometre-long, two-kilometre-wide slice of paradise. 

Lord Howe is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and is one of the world's most exquisite ecotourism destinations. The island is home to 350 permanent residents and only 400 visitors are allowed here at any one time.

The rainforested peaks of Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird lord it over the Lord Howe, and many visitors join a guided hike to the summit of Mt Gower (875m) for a bird's eye view of this boomerang-shaped island.

Lord Howe is home to the world's most southern coral reef and with 90 species of coral and 490 species of fish, the diving and snorkelling here is phenomenal. Most people take a glass-bottom boat cruise of the reef, but excellent snorkelling can also be found right off Ned's Beach.

For surfers, Blinky Beach delivers some ferocious waves, while idyllic Lagoon Beach is perfect for sun worshiping on its hot golden sand or swimming in its calm, crystal-clear waters.

Fishing, sea kayaking, climbing and long lazy dinners at fine dining restaurants are other popular ways to while away warm summer days.

Due to its isolation from mainland Australia, new species of flora and fauna have evolved and flourished on Lord Howe Island, including the flightless woodhen, the fat-lipped doubleheader fish and the ubiquitous kentia palm tree. Unlike the rest of Australia, visitors can commune with nature here without worrying about snakes, sand flies or nasty stinging plants.

Few cars are allowed on Lord Howe (the speed limit is 25km/h) and cycling and walking is the best way to get around. Flights to and from the island aren't cheap, and neither is accommodation, but if you were going to splurge anywhere in Australia, Lord Howe would be the place to do it.