 Silky
Oaks Lodge
Daintree Rainforest
The most deluxe property in the Daintree Rainforest is perched on the northern
bank of the Mossman River Gorge, and the Treehouses that accommodate guests
are actually luxurious private cabins nestled amid lush gardens and the
rainforest; the premium Riverhouses are larger and feature a private spa
bath. Active guests can take a guided walk through the rainforest, canoe
and snorkel trips on the Mossman River, or use the tennis courts and a swimming
pool. The Healing Waters Spa is an on-site facility that uses Aboriginal
methods and recipes in modern spa treatments. A gourmet four-course dinner
with a nightly changing menu and a tropical buffet breakfast is included
for all guests at Silky Oaks.
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 Hayman
Island Resort
Whitsunday Islands
Hayman is perhaps Australia's most famous five star island resort. Located
in Queensland's Whitsunday Island group, the resort is within daily reach
of the Great Barrier Reef via air or boat. The resort's recently refurbished
rooms feature contemporary, luxury accommodation, with pool, beach or gardens
views. Hayman's restaurants enjoy an international reputation for superb
quality and variety. The island is easily accessible by launch transfer
from nearby Hamilton Island, which can be reached by air from most major
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Qualia Resort
Great Barrier Reef
The word qualia actually describes a philosophical concept: the properties of sensory experience. Though this may seem a bit abstract, Qualia Resort has actually dedicated a lot of thought to its guests' sensory experience and it shows. Located on Hamilton Island - part of the Whitsunday Island chain in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef -- Qualia's location is second to none. Almost every room and public space in the property showcases magnificent views of aquamarine water and reinforces the sense of blissful island isolation. Leeward Pavilions face south and offer private sundecks to enjoy the Coral Sea; Windward Pavilions have equally stunning views and private plunge pools. Excursions to the Great Barrier Reef are easily arranged but there is plenty to occupy those who stay behind: two serene pools, a library, two bars and restaurants and a fitness center.
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Four Seasons
Sydney
Four Seasons properties are consistently excellent, but the Four Seasons
Sydney is one of our favorites. The location is ideal, rising above the
harbor and only a few minutes' walk to Circular Quay and the Opera House. The
Deluxe Harbour View rooms are our favorite, offering dramatic views over the water and an elegant, class decor.
There is a wide selection of shopping and dining options nearby; we suggest
spending at least a few days here to fully enjoy all the city and historic Rocks district have to offer.
Even though some of the city's finest beaches are nearby, the hotel also boasts Sydney's largest heated outdoor pool, a bonus for travelers who need a refreshing dip after a day of active touring.
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Park Hyatt
Sydney
Unlike most deluxe properties in the area, Park Hyatt Sydney is the only
hotel right on the water with immediate views of the Opera House and Harbor
Bridge. It has an intimate, exclusive ambience, and is located in the heart
of the historic Rocks area. A spa, rooftop terrace, and pool take advantage
of the ideal location and view. Two sophisticated bars have become destinations
in their own right, and an award-winning restaurant -- harbourkitchen --
offers a light, airy environment in which to dine and take in the sweeping
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Observatory Hotel
Sydney
In the heart of Sydney's Rocks section, the award-winning Observatory Hotel
is perhaps the city's most sophisticated hotel. The hotel boasts that there
is no request too big (or strange) for them to fulfill, and they live up
to this promise. The spa and indoor-swimming pool are excellent and the
elegant restaurants feature some of Australia's finest wines. Luxurious
rooms are large and distinctively appointed. As the hotel is not a high-rise,
there are no harbour views, but the hotel's location in the real Rocks section
(the one with the locals, not the souvenir stores) is convenient to Circular
Quay, Darling Harbour, and the Central Business District.
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Longitude 131
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Longitude 131 is the most luxurious accommodation for visitors to the Red Centre. The individual guest "tents" are more like private guesthouses, and their impressive views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta allow visitors to watch as the changing light and conditions transform the landscape throughout the day and evening. Because it is relatively small, Longitude 131 ensures that each guest receives individual attention and care. All meals are included and tours are composed of small groups of guests. Rather than simply visit the site, the lodge encourages people to fully experience the area, and their knowledgeable guides lead exploratory outings that truly help guests more fully understand and appreciate Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and the surrounding area.
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Southern Ocean Lodge
Kangaroo Island
Australia's third largest island is sometimes compared to the Galapagos Islands because of its pristine eco-system and diverse animal population, and with the debut of the Southern Ocean Lodge, there is now a suitably luxurious base from which to explore it. With a spectacular cliffside location and airy décor, it's tempting to simply stay inside and enjoy the views but a roster of daily small group excursions do lure guests out - options might include a visit to Seal Bay to watch the sunrise, a beach fishing trip, or an exploration of the Kelly Hill Caves. With outstanding local seafood and produce available, it's no surprise that the food is excellent - meals are complemented with local wine and provide tasty sustenance for all of the activity on offer at the lodge.
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Lilianfels
Katoomba, Blue Mountains
A visit to the Blue Mountains is highly recommended as an excursion from
Sydney, and if you want to do it at a leisurely pace, spend a night or two
at luxurious Lilianfels. Known for its impeccable service, exquisite cuisine
and warm décor, this historic property perched on the edge of Jamison Valley
has the feel of a very exclusive country estate. English gardens and a billiard
room contribute to this atmosphere of refined elegance but amenities like
a sparkling health spa and an award-winning restaurant ensure that guests
don't miss more contemporary comforts. A visit to Lilianfels also offers
a wonderful opportunity for guests to experience the Australian bush --
kangaroos and other local wildlife are often spotted on nature walks.
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Lizard Island
Great Barrier Reef
With 40 well-appointed rooms, each with its own deluxe private balcony, this beach resort hideaway is one of Australia's most unique destinations. Famous for the Blue Lagoon, home to the giant clam and coral gardens, Lizard Island boasts an endless mix of beauty and relaxing solitude. With all meals included, the Cuisine Moderne will surprise even the most critical food connoisseurs, as local seafood and garden greens are always fresh and ready to serve. The resort offers hiking, snorkeling, bushwalks, windsurfing, or just simply lounging by the pools. |
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El Questro Homestead
The Kimberley, Western Australia
To say that your stay at El Questro would be anything less than an awe-inspiring
experience would be an understatement. Located in
Western Australia's Kimberley Range, overlooking the Chamberlain River,
the homestead has only six rooms and provides exquisite cuisine to its guests.
Daily activities feature unparalleled access to the ultimate in outback
treks, cruises and scenic air trips, including one to Purnululu (Bungle
Bungle) National Park. Food, wine and daily outback excursions (except air
tours) are included in the tariff. Access the homestead by scheduled air
from Darwin or Broome to Kununurra, a ninety-minute drive from El Questro,
or by private charter.
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Seven Spirit Bay
Arnhemland
This luxury wilderness lodge is located at the Top End of the Northern Territory
in Aboriginal Arnhemland, a short flight from Darwin. Entry is by permit
only and carefully limited. Touring includes unique wildlife safaris, fishing,
coastal exploration and sunset cruises. Guests learn about traditional Aboriginal
foods and medicines, and enjoy magnificent scenery and prolific bird life.
The accommodation units are intimate and comfortable, each with their own
queen-sized bed, spacious sitting area, and unique semi-open "bathroom in
a garden." The main 'lodge' building offers a spacious restaurant, cocktail
bar, and lounge where guests can enjoy cocktails and superb cuisine.
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Bamurru Plains
Kakadu National Park vicinity
Located on the floodplains of the Mary River just west of Kakadu National Park, Bamurru Plains is like an African safari lodge dropped into Australia's rugged Top End. Nine safari suites nestle in the savannah bush, raised up on timber platforms to ensure excellent views. Daily game drives introduce guests to the abundant plants and animals, from dingos and wild pigs to buffalo and wallabies. Depending on the season and the floodplain's water level, guests explore with a ranger via game vehicle, air boat or river cruise. Additionally, guests can fish, birdwatch, see the nearby rock art at Arnhemland or visit Kakadu National Park. All meals are included and the gorgeous accommodations do justify the phrase "wild bush luxury," but be warned: there are no televisions, telephones, cd players or other modern distractions in the guest suites, the better to focus on the blissfully wild and wonderful surroundings of Bamurru Plains.
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Moonlight Head Private Lodge
Great Ocean Road
Located on the southern tip of the Victoria coastline, this luxurious property has only four interior suites in its main lodge. It is an exclusive-use property, meaning the only guests will be you and your traveling companions. In the suites, skylights and large windows showcase the ocean views, and rooms have a minimalist style -- white walls with modern furnishings, antique Persian rugs, and deep soaking tubs. The main lounge has a wood-burning fireplace where guests can relax while their meals are prepared by expert chefs. For those eager to explore, the lodge can arrange golf, freshwater fishing, holistic treatments, or an escorted stroll along the Great Ocean Walk.
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Destinations & Tours 