About

Nicola Billens, Founder & Guide

Elixir Journeys was inspired by the region itself. Having lived in Sydney for 13 years I had never really given the Central Coast much thought. I had been promoting Australia to high-net-worth international guests for luxury inbound tour operator Alquemie and I rarely showcased the Central Coast other than a stay at the gorgeous Pretty Beach House or Bells at Killcare.

It was only when I moved to the Bouddi Peninsula just a stone’s throw from Palm Beach, that I realised how under-appreciated this whole region is.  Living here has shown me that there is actually so much to offer, so close to Sydney. I’ve travelled the world to all seven continents and I can speak with confidence when I say that this region really is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored by both international and domestic travellers.

I’ve spent the past six months exploring the area in depth, connecting with locals and partnering with them to create premium experiences with the simple formula of nature plus great food and wine. 

In March 2020 I created and hosted Pure Pursuits Australia for Alquemie in conjunction with Tourism Australia. It was a 5-day experiential journey for some of the world’s most well-travelled people. The goal was to use minimal motorised transport, give people a feeling of remoteness, showcase Australia’s beauty and of course wow them. I bring those same elements into the experiences I have created for Elixir Journeys. 

Nicola Billens Elixir Journeys
Ecotourism Certified

We adhere to Ecotourism Australia's Code of Ethics.

This Business:

Operates within a framework of high ethical standards in its provision of ecotourism services and products, and in its relationships with the community in practice and via all communications (including all digital platforms and social media channels);
Respects the social, cultural and natural values, heritage and diversity of Australia, and specifically within its region of operation;
Acknowledges and respects Traditional Owners, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations and recognises the primacy of their obligations, rights and responsibilities to Country, the diversity of their cultures and the deep connections they have with Australia’s lands and waters;
Is committed to best practice ecological sustainability, natural area management, low environmental impact, and the provision of authentic, high quality ecotourism experiences;
Complies with its legal and statutory obligations and requirements;
Acknowledges its responsibility to treat all customers equally, to meet their reasonable expectations, and to ensure that its advertising and promotional activities accurately reflect the business operations and consumer experience on offer;
Ensures that its customers are aware of all terms and conditions of the contract (including terms of payment and cancellation) and deals with complaints in a fair and timely manner;
Is committed to non-discrimination, anti-bullying and equal opportunity employment;
Ensures that the health and safety of its staff and customers is a key priority in all aspects of its operations;
Supports its local community (people, businesses and services), and partners with other local/regional ECO certified operators to ensure that the customer has an authentic, high quality ecotourism experience during their stay in the region.