Gourmet Traveller

The North Cape Express makes history as the first Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express to sail from Oslo, the country’s vibrant capital. Over 16 days, it will reach both Norway’s southernmost and northernmost points, including the snow-covered reaches of the North Cape, 71 degrees far-north. Along the way it will take in stunning fjords and dramatic landscapes, and the idyllic charm of the countless colourful villages that dot the length of the coastline. Watch as the Northern Lights dance across the night sky from the comfort of the deck or your cabin on board the refurbished MS Trollfjord. Life on board has certainly come a long way since that maiden journey in 1893: guests on the North Cape Express (as on the Svalbard express) can expect premium offerings like wine, beer, champagne and whisky…

The Svalbard Express reflects Hurtigruten’s love of bold exploration. Hurtigruten are the only operator of this iconic route, and remain as much of a lifeline as between 1968 and 1982, when it initially ran. About as far north as you can go, Svalbard is an archipelago situated around 900 kilometres further north than the tip of mainland Norway. There are more polar bears than people here, and swathes of stunning endless white that leave you in no doubt that you are at the very top of the world. Over 16 days the Svalbard Express will take in some of the Norwegian coast’s most epic destinations: the stunning Lofoten Islands, historic Vesterålen and the North Cape — before heading north to Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost populated city. For more information visit hurtigruten.com.au…

As we send this issue to print, I am indulging in the trip of a lifetime, cruising the Arctic Circle aboard Ponant’s new luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot. Polar bears plus a culinary programme designed by legendary French chef Alain Ducasse? That’s serious decadence. So too, the chance to take two weeks out of the office and to unplug from the world. True decadence isn’t about spending a lot of money (although that can be a side effect) but rather treating yourself to something special, outside of your everyday experience. It’s about creating a moment of appreciation and celebration. It’s little wonder then that decadence is experiencing such a resurgence in 2022, as people seek to create more of those moments and embrace them fully. Sweet balances sour, and a little decadence…

Araceli Adams Bring a touch of colour and quirk to your dinner table with these unique hand-painted ceramics by artist Araceli Adams. For each piece sold, the studio plants a native tree or shrub. Follow her on Insta for regular joy on a plate. @araceli_adams Rouge Coco Flash Anyone who was of age in the 1990s will remember lipstick index – where prestige lipstick sales soar during tough times. At GT a bold lip is joined by fine chocolate and good wine as the emotional uplift we need right now. chanel.com Luigi Bormioli Optica Trust the Italians to add a little elegance to your next cocktail hour. Whatever your tipple, there’s a stylish vessel to suit from the new Optica range from Luigi Bormioli. Saluti! fackelmannhousewares.com.au Whalebridge, Sydney Whether you’re visiting the harbour city or a long-time local, the view…

BRETT STEVENS photographer The decadent dozen, p88 As a food and lifestyle photographer, Brett Stevens is driven by a technical eye and a playful organic freedom when he shoots. In this issue, beautiful briny oysters were his subject, prepared and captured in 12 different ways to show the versatility of the bivalve. “Growing up, oysters mornay or Kilpatrick were such luxurious delicacies that were rarely enjoyed. I’ve been lucky enough to always have a palate for these molluscs, although I prefer freshly shucked these days,” says Stevens. CALLUM McDERMOTT writer Omakase rising, p62 When writer Callum McDermott was growing up, he couldn’t stand fish – cooked or raw. So he considers his deep-dive into the increasingly popular world of omakase to be the victory lap for his transformation into a born-again fish fan. “Omakase restaurants – especially…

Wistman’s Wood, Devon Tucked away in the middle of Dartmoor National Park lies a gnarled moss-covered pocket of ancient high altitude oak forest. Signage is scant and it’s a hike from the road but a visit to this magical spot was a highlight of a recent UK stay. Fiona Donnelly, Qld state editor Hotel Bachaumont, Paris A short but sweet stay at in the 2nd arrondissement was the perfect spot to reacquaint myself with Paris – just a five-minute walk from Chez Georges and other gastronomic delights. Joanna Hunkin, editor Hartsyard, Newtown This month we bid farewell to this excellent Inner West favourite with a touch of sadness. While Jarrod Walsh and Dot Lee will close Hartsyard in August, we can’t wait to see what they do next at The Old Clare Hotel. 33 Enmore Rd, Newtown,…