Cherry’s favourite luxury Aussie experiences.
1. Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania. The ultimate luxury hideaway. Located on the east coast of Tasmania, this lodge has 20 suites with incredible views overlooking the Hazards Mountains, the pristine waters of Great Oyster Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula. The locally-sourced menu and wine list are exceptional.
2. Sal Salis, Western Australia. This beachside safari camp resides in the dunes of Cape Range National Park. Ningaloo Reef is on the doorstep, with a swim with the harmless whale sharks included in the package. With only nine luxury tents, you’ll feel like you’ve got this amazing part of the world all to yourself. Just because you’re in a remote part of Australia, doesn’t mean you’ll have to forgo any niceties. The camp provides five-star dining using local produce, the tents are kitted out with 500 thread count sheets and luxurious ensuite bathrooms.
3. Lizard Island, Queensland. This is the Great Barrier Reef’s most northern island and is accessed by scenic flight from Cairns. After closing due to cyclone damage in 2014, it re-opened in June this year after a $45million refurbishment. This high-end resort is looking sophisticated and fresh. With just 40 luxurious suites, this island is for those who enjoy the finer things in life.
4. Southern Ocean Lodge, South Australia. Located on Kangaroo Island, this lodge has been designed to be sympathetic to its beautiful position perched atop a cliff overlooking the ocean. The lodge has a feeling of complete isolation, but you won’t be lacking in things to do with plenty of activities included in the board including safari style excursions to experience the prolific and unusual wildlife.
5. Qualia, Queensland. This exclusive resort on Hamilton Island offers world-class service and facilities. There are 60 pavilions, some with private pools. This multi-award winning property enjoys an idyllic Whitsundays location and offers the perfect place to relax, or get active with water sports and cruising around the Whitsunday islands.
6. Bamurru Plains, Northern Territory. On the edge of Kakadu National Park, this unique luxury safari lodge is on the Mary River floodplains. The lodge only houses 18 guests and includes all activities such as airboat safaris, guided walks, wildlife drives and crocodile spotting cruises. Watch the sunrise from your bungalow where you’ll see the magpie geese flying overhead. You’ll feel totally at one with nature – especially as there’s no TV, internet or phone coverage!
7. Spicers Clovelly Estate, Queensland. This European inspired estate is home to the renowned restaurant, Long Apron. You’ll find this little slice of France in Montville in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Enjoy some pampering at Spa Anise, and make sure you get your ‘Bath Butler’ to prepare you the best bath experience ever.
8. Arkaba Homestead, South Australia. This elegant 1850s homestead and former sheep station is set on 60,000 acres of wilderness. The resident chef specialises in traditional country fare with modern touches. The Homestead is a good base to explore the Flinders Ranges and Wilpena Pound. The owners have a strong focus on wildlife conservation and sustainability.
9. Big Blue Backyard, Victoria. Three boutique beach houses at St Andrew’s beach on the Mornington Peninsula. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, you’ll feel like you’re miles away from anywhere. Wake up to breakfast in bed and have the resident chef prepare you a candlelit dinner to enjoy on your deck.
10. Silkwood Chalet, Western Australia. These open-plan, stylish chalets in Pemberton have a glass frontage to take in the spectacular lake and forest views. The estate is home to Silkwood Vineyard, restaurant and cellar door. The Chalets are fully self-contained and have everything you need for a relaxing stay, and provide a great base for exploring the local wine region.
11. One&Only Hayman Island, Queensland. This glamorous island resort takes full advantage of its Great Barrier Reef location. Try diving around the reef, take a yacht around the neighbouring islands and deserted beaches, or enjoy the signature Ocean Dreaming Massage at the Spa. You can do as little or as much as you wish. This resort re-opened in July 2014 after an $80million makeover.
12. Forester Beach Camp and Bay of Fires Lodge, Tasmania. This lodge and camp are located on the east coast of Tasmania and provide accommodation exclusively for the Bay of Fires Lodge Walk. Both properties are eco-friendly, set in beautiful locations and define luxury boutique accommodation. The Forester Beach Camp is a seasonal demountable camp located within the national park, beside the beach. Bay of Fires Lodge is set 40 metres above the sea perched on a clifftop.
View quality sightseeing tours in Australia here.