While some of my greatest memories are from summers at Palm Beach, it’s actually at its best for a total escape from the city during winter. Quiet, private and blue sky views for days.

Stay ...
Rockridge is an original 1940s villa with views that ensure you never want to leave. It has a terrace made for hosting big lunches and a pool and spa where hours can be lost. I always book through Contemporary Hotels because Tony the caretaker makes everything so easy and there’s always cold champagne in the fridge. Other favourite Contemporary Hotels properties in the area include Palm Beach Tower and The Archer House which has access straight to Whale Beach.

Take ...
As little as possible … This was a tracksuit kind of weekend. Balenciaga S trainers and denim jacket and lots of soft cashmere for lolling around in. Plus pyjamas from In Bed. We got there in the new Lexus NX.

Do ...
Make a traditional roast. Drink wine and blast music all the way to the South Pacific Ocean. Weekends here are about staying in and convincing friends to visit (and bring you things).

Taste ...
Apart from friend’s places, there are never a lot of options up here. Barrenjoey House, always good for fish and chips is currently closed. The Whale Beach Deli and The Boathouse are the best for coffee and breakfasts and Bert’s in Newport does really good everything – especially the lobster with lemon (but you’ll need to put something over the tracksuit.) More our vibe was the Club Palm Beach RSL because ‘chicken schnitzels are life’ and the bowls at Pine-ana in Avalon.