Discover Australia’s Luxe Lodges
(425 Reviews)
99% Recommended
Pam MacIntyre
Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic ...
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic part of the world?
I was fortunate enough to visit both the North and South Islands, and what I love about New Zealand is that it offers the perfect blend of laid-back charm and action-packed adventure, all while being nothing short of epic.
The country is home to endless national parks, a rich Maori culture, and unforgettable experiences like sailing through the sounds while dolphins playfully follow your yacht. And let’s not forget the awe-inspiring moment of witnessing a sperm whale off the coast of Kaikoura—talk about jaw-dropping beauty!
Oh, and did I mention wine? If you’re a fan of great wine (and who isn’t?), New Zealand is a must-visit for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and more. How do I know? Because I couldn’t resist visiting a winery or two during my travels!
Honestly, I could go on and on about the magic of New Zealand, but if you’re reading this, you already know you want to explore this incredible part of the world. Let’s work together to create your perfect New Zealand adventure!
Australia
Let me start by saying, I’ve wanted to visit Australia since I was a child. Why, you ask? Well, to pet a kangaroo, of course! And yes, I did! Not only did I pet a kangaroo, but I actually fed FOUR at the same time. Childhood dream come true, right? And I can’t wait to go back for round two.
While I was in Sydney, I had the chance to experience the spectacular Vivid Sydney Festival, celebrating its 10th year. It was honestly WOW! Never in my wildest dreams did I think Australia would be so perfect to visit during their winter season. But coming from Minnesota, their “winter” felt more like our fall—absolutely ideal! Seeing the Sydney Opera House light up during the festival was something I’ll never forget.
And then there’s the Blue Mountains region—so lovely to explore on foot. From there, we ventured to Hunter Valley (known to the locals as "The Hunter"), where wine flowed freely, and every glass was more delicious than the last.
Australia’s size is truly hard to grasp until you’ve experienced it firsthand. To put it in perspective: Sydney would be in Florida, Cairns (home of the Great Barrier Reef) would be in Maine, Uluru (Ayers Rock) would be in Kansas, Melbourne would be in New Orleans, and Perth would be in Los Angeles.
Whether you're dreaming of visiting the world’s largest Great Barrier Reef, immersing yourself in Aboriginal culture, swimming with whale sharks, or gazing upon the majestic Uluru, Australia has endless possibilities waiting for you.
Let’s make your dream trip to Australia a reality—one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
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Australia is a bucket-list destination for many. With long flights, most travelers want to see and do as much as possible, but few realize just how vast it truly is. To put it in perspective: Sydney is like Florida, Cairns (Great Barrier Reef) like Maine, Uluru (Ayers Rock) like Kansas, Melbourne like New Orleans, and Perth like Los Angeles. Visitors often spend 2 to 4 weeks exploring.
While Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, and The Outback often top itineraries, several unique boutique and luxury options let you experience the true heart of Australia.
Here are a few standout properties showcasing unforgettable rainforest, reef, wildlife, and outback adventures to consider.
Qualia (Reef)
Qualia sits on the northern tip of Hamilton Island. It’s a gated, private, and adults-only (16+) sanctuary that offers seclusion and tranquility. While Qualia isn’t directly on the Great Barrier Reef, you can easily reach it via boat charter or helicopter. Located on a beautiful beach with access to other stunning nearby beaches, each couple gets their own golf buggy to explore the island. Plus, there’s an animal park where you can hold a koala and more than 65 activities, some exclusive to Qualia guests.
Golfers will love Dent Island’s 18-hole championship golf course—Australia’s only course on its own island—designed by legendary golfer Peter Thomson and located just next to Hamilton Island. And with five other hotels on Hamilton Island, dining options abound just outside Qualia’s gates.
Silky Oaks Lodge (Rainforest)
Located in the ancient Daintree Rainforest north of Cairns, Silky Oaks Lodge offers an immersive rainforest experience with stunning treehouses that provide breathtaking panoramic views. Waking up to the sights and sounds of the forest is truly magical.
Situated on the Mossman River, there are plenty of ways to explore—river snorkeling, paddleboarding, guided hikes, and more. Interested in culture? You can connect with the local indigenous Kuku Yalanji people or take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef.
Southern Ocean Lodge (Wildlife)
Southern Ocean Lodge is perched on Kangaroo Island, overlooking the crashing waves of the Southern Ocean—just beyond, Antarctica lies on the horizon! This lodge offers access to unspoiled wilderness and incredible wildlife.
There are more kangaroos and wallabies than people here, and Seal Bay is home to a rare colony of Australian sea lions. Koalas are abundant and easy to spot, making this island an animal lover’s paradise where you can get up close with wildlife in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a glass of local wine while taking in breathtaking views of white sand beaches and turquoise waters framed by dramatic cliffs. The island’s wineries produce excellent Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. When the sun rises over the cliffs, it’s a moment that will take your breath away. Despite its small population, Kangaroo Island boasts fantastic restaurants and is a must-visit for lovers of wildlife, wine, nature, and great food.
Longitude 131° (Ayers Rock)
Longitude 131° is located in Uluru, the spiritual heart of Australia. This luxury tented camp offers unparalleled views of the iconic “Rock” and provides a deep cultural immersion into the Red Centre.
Uluru is so much more than just a rock—its sacred significance to Aboriginal culture is profound, and witnessing its colors at sunrise and sunset is unforgettable. Every traveler who adds this to their itinerary raves about the experience. The question is: will you regret not including it?
If you’re headed to Uluru, Longitude 131° is the perfect base, offering all-inclusive dining, transfers, and signature tours that connect you to this iconic destination.
This is just a small taste of the luxurious, unique, and boutique accommodations waiting for you in Australia! But there’s so much more beyond these few gems scattered across the country.
Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley in New South Wales offers an incredible blend of wildlife sanctuary and ultra-luxury, with spacious villas set in the stunning Greater Blue Mountains.
Bamurru Plains in the Northern Territory gives you an exclusive safari-style experience on the edge of Kakadu National Park, perfect for wildlife lovers.
For a remote island escape, Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island offers eco-friendly luxury with breathtaking hiking and snorkeling right at your doorstep.
Over in Tasmania, Saffire Freycinet delivers spectacular coastal views, fine dining, and a focus on wellness in a pristine natural setting.
On the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island Resort is the ultimate private island getaway with world-class snorkeling and diving.
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia offers a luxury tented camp experience right on the reef—ideal for swimming with whale sharks.
And don’t forget El Questro Homestead in Western Australia’s rugged wilderness, combining adventure and comfort in a boutique setting.
Together, we can craft your perfect Australian adventure, tailored to your style and interests!