Where to stay in Australia

This 1850's five-bedroom homestead is set in the heart of the ancient Flinders Ranges, home to some of the most spectacular outback scenery in the country, and offers a taste of classic Australian country hospitality. Arkaba is a 60,000 wildlife conservancy whose craggy sandstone bluffs and dry creek beds lined with River Red Gum trees are a quintessential Australian scene, while the acclaimed geological amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound lies on the property's northern boundary. Just a four and a half hour drive from Adelaide (or a one hour scenic charter flight), the Flinders Ranges is undoubtedly one of the most accessible outback destinations in Australia.

Rawnsley Park Station is a classic Australian outback sheep station located on the edges of the infamous Wilpena Pound in the centre of the Flinders Ranges National Park, about a 3 hour drive north of Adelaide. The One and Two Bedroom Luxury Eco Villas are ideal for independent travellers, self-driving to the flinders as they have every creature comfort you could wish for as a base including stunning 360 views of the ranges.

Set atop a gentle hill with sweeping views of the Barossa Valley, The Louise is surrounded by hundreds of acres of vines that produce some of Australia’s most significant wines. The acclaimed on-site restaurant ‘Appellation’ showcases quality regional seasonal produce in a casually elegant setting. The property has just 15 suites offering absolute luxury and inspired design, with sunrise or sunset vistas over the surrounding vineyards.

Southern Ocean Lodge is Kangaroo Island’s only world-class wilderness lodge - a sanctuary of comfort, style and intimacy. Located at Hanson Bay on the island’s south west coast, the lodge adjoins two National Parks and is at the heart of the island’s major attractions.

Guests staying at The Frames will adore the sumptuous accommodation, tranquillity, and independence it provides. Yet, it's the uniquely curated immersive experiences by owners Cathy and Rick Edmonds that truly captivated our imagination. Easily integrated into any South Australia itinerary, within 3 hours drive of Adelaide, Flinders Ranges or Barossa Valley (or a shorter drive from Mildura, an hour and a half away with flights from Sydney or Melbourne), this unique location offers a juxtaposition of landscapes.

Tucked away on its own private cove, Sea Dragon Lodge is an intimate boutique lodge with just thirteen suites and villas, each enjoying breathtaking views of the turquoise ocean and stunning beach. Within the 250 acres, guests are invited to explore and immerse themselves in this spectacular haven, home to native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, and goannas. Avid bird watchers will see a variety of birdlife, including the endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo. Dolphins and seals regularly swim past the beach, which guests often see when walking on the many trails throughout the property and along the coast to Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.

Situated in an unrivalled location in the heart of Adelaide, this elegant boutique hotel has been lovingly reimagined from a 1930 Heritage-listed building, formerly the Colonial Mutual Life Office. Just steps away from Rundle Mall and the North Terrace cultural precinct, you couldn’t be more central. The River Torrens and Adelaide Central Market are all within half a mile of the front door, and behind the hotel, the lively laneways of the West End offer plenty of cool cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Sequoia is an intimate adults-only luxury lodge, perched on the edge of the Adelaide Hills with sublime views of the Piccadilly Valley. It is the perfect place to stay when visiting Adelaide, especially if you are planning a side trip to Kangaroo Island or The Flinders Ranges, as an alternative to two city stays. The city is only a twenty-minute drive from Sequoia, yet you’ll feel a world away in this intimate retreat.

Berkeley River Lodge is isolated in splendour on the remote north Kimberley coast. The perfect base to experience some of the ancient wonders of the Kimberley. Explore rugged gorges and swim in crystal clear pools beneath thundering waterfalls. Berkeley River Lodge is isolated in splendour on the remote north Kimberley coast and only accessible via a soaring one hour floatplane flight over this epic landscape. In this hidden corner of Australia you can enjoy barefoot luxury on secluded white sand beaches, explore rugged river gorges and some of the most ancient wonders of the Kimberley.

Cable Beach Club is the perfect beach retreat for any Kimberley adventure with a perfect location next to Broome’s famous Cable Beach. Spend lazy days by the pool or exploring the intriguing coastline.

Truly one of the world’s last remaining wild frontiers, El Questro boasts a million acres of awe-inspiring and remarkable scenery in the heart of the ancient Kimberley Outback in the far north of Western Australia (100kms west of Kununurra).

Superbly located just metres from a pristine deserted beach, between the beautiful corals of Ningaloo Reef and the spectacular gorges of the awe-inspiring Cape Range National Park in Western Australia.

Arguably one of the most unique adventure-cruise operators in the world, True North offers activity-based itineraries in ultimate comfort and style aboard the ‘True North’ – a spacious, state-of-the-art, 50 metre luxury cruiser, purpose-designed and built for exploring Australia’s remote coastal waters. With a ratio of just 36 passengers and 20 crew, personalised service is assured.

Blending effortlessly with the majestic rainforest which surrounds it, Crystalbrook Byron's open-plan design is enhanced by the use of rich timbers and wide covered verandahs, oversized cane lounges and slow turning fans - all of which combine to evoke a feeling of serenity and harmony with the environment.

Australia’s northernmost island resort, located right on the Great Barrier Reef (240kms north of Cairns and 27kms off the coast of North Queensland), offers a very special island experience with 24 soft powdery white sand beaches and secluded stylish accommodation decorated in elegant sand and sea tones.

Accessible via a magical 30 minute helicopter transfer from Townsville, or one hour from Cairns, this coral fringed island hideaway sits within its own pristine national park amidst one of the world’s greatest natural wonders - the Great Barrier Reef.

In Greek Qualia translates as collections of deeply sensory experiences which this stylish resort delivers in spades. Positioned on Hamilton Island but well away from the madding crowd. On arrival your private golf buggy will transport you from the ordinary to the extraordinary in the space of 10 minutes. As arrival entrances go Qualia is up there with the best and the views from the Long Pavilion are nothing short of spectacular, but then they should be since the resort is slap bang in the middle of the world’s largest marine park

Lord Howe Island is one of Australia’s secret treasures, an unspoilt sanctuary which a mere 280 people are lucky enough to call home. From the moment your plane sweeps in over the island’s sea cliffs, skims across the surf break that rims the lagoon and drops you in the shadow of two dramatic volcanic peaks, you’ll be in no doubt that you have landed in paradise! The island – which is eleven kilometres long and two kilometres wide – has been recognised as an exceptional natural environment, with flora and fauna conservation beginning with the declaration of a botanic reserve in 1882 and culminating with a UNESCO World Heritage listing in 1982. Despite its feeling of remoteness, Lord Howe is easily accessible – less than a two hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane.

At first glimpse you would be forgiven for thinking you have arrived in Seychelles, for the pristine white coves, studded with immense granite rocks are certainly more indicative of the Indian Ocean, but we can assure you this is most definitely Australia. Bedarra is a little known private island where you really can escape the outside world. There are just 8 private villas, tucked into 45 hectares of spectacular rainforest and with no more than 16 guests at any one time; this really is a place of solitude, exclusivity and immense natural beauty.

InterContinental Hayman Island a stylish, luxurious escape in the beautiful Whitsundays. Forget taxis and limousines... accessing this island is all about arriving in style!

Hamilton Island is a buzzy island located amongst Queensland’s 74 Whitsunday Islands. We love the laid back vibe here - you ca do as much or a little as you like. The island has its own airport so it is easily accessible from Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. It has its own marina with bars, restaurants and shops, its own zoo and even a golf course. The Great Barrier Reef can be accessed by boat, seaplane or helicopter and the famous Whitehaven Beach is a must do whilst in the region. Those seeking rest and relaxation can indulge in the spa or simply laze around the pool or no the beach. There is a number of accommodation choices on Hamilton Island, The Beach Club is Hamilton Island's boutique beachfront retreat, perfect for honeymooners

Arajilla Retreat is perfectly situated to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island, an awe-inspiring tropical paradise in the South Pacific, 420 nautical miles (a 2-hour flight) northeast of Sydney. Often described as 'the most beautiful island on the planet,' it's a sentiment we wholeheartedly agree with!

Lavishly appointed and offering impeccable standards of service, five star Crown Towers enjoys a perfect location on Melbourne’s South Bank, surrounded by over 40 international fine dining establishments, cafes and bars.

Just a 1 hour 20 minute drive north-west of Melbourne, this small luxurious retreat offers a relaxing and indulgent gourmet experience in the heart of Victoria’s Spa Country. It is set on the tranquil shores of beautiful Lake Daylesford and boasts 33 rooms and suites furnished in a chic country-style. Surrounded by waterfall-fed streams and using minerals from the nearby natural hot springs, the state of the art Salus Spa boasts nine treatment areas including idyllic hot mineral water tubs in private tree-houses overlooking the lake. Other facilities at Lake House include an outdoor swimming pool and a tennis court.

The main lodge and four lavish villas at Meringa Springs harmonise with their beautiful setting in the Australian bush, on the edge of Victoria’s Grampians National Park.

Situated in the heart of chic and fashionable South Yarra, The Lyall is just a short stroll from dozens of Australia’s top designer fashion stores and world-class restaurants.

Located on its own boutique vineyard, surrounded by rolling countryside, Jackalope is a sophisticated design hotel, set in a beautiful rustic setting half way down the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Its hilltop position offers breath-taking views across the vines, best enjoyed with a chilled glass of Chardonnay on the terrace. Jackalope is a country escape with an urban edge, contrasting farmhouse vibes with modern black-and-gold statement furnishings, the result – a truly unique stylish retreat.

Located directly opposite a beautiful sandy beach, Chocolate Gannets offers luxury accommodation and superb ocean views on the Great Ocean Road. Four individual luxury villas are surrounded by rolling countryside about two and a half kilometres from Apollo Bay. Each contemporary Sea Villa is luxuriously appointed, each with two bedrooms, a small kitchen, open living space featuring a wood fire and huge two-person spa bath. Two

Less than an hour's drive from Melbourne, the rolling vine-strung hills and enticing cellar doors of Victoria's premier wine region are surprisingly close to the city. Home to over 40 wineries, including Domaine Chandon - the Australian arm of the famous Moet et Chandon, the Yarra offers a unique food and wine experience.

Situated in one of the best locations along the Great Ocean Road, Alkina Lodge comprises three luxurious, four-bedroom eco-lodges, surrounded by native bush and abundant wildlife, just 20 minutes from the Twelve Apostles. Offering the most luxurious accommodation along this stretch, Alkina Lodge serves as an ideal base for walking the final stretch of the Great Ocean Walk and visiting Wreck Beach.

Ideally located in the heart of the Great Ocean Road and close to Johanna Beach, Boomerangs is perfectly positioned to visit the spectacular 12 Apostles, explore sections of the Great Ocean Coastal Path, or discover the waterfalls and rainforests of the nearby Otways Ranges.

Tucked away in the picturesque coastal town of Port Fairy, Oak and Anchor offers a perfect fusion of modern contemporary style and historic charm. This beautifully restored heritage building offers an inviting retreat with seven thoughtfully designed boutique suites. Each room features an exquisite blend of natural textures and stylish décor with a tranquil colour palette, inspired by the nearby ocean, enhances the sense of peace and relaxation, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploring.

Nestled in the heart of Cowes on Phillip Island, Genesta House offers an intimate and welcoming escape, just two hours south of Melbourne. Known for its captivating Little Penguins, which parade up the beach at dusk, Phillip Island also boasts an incredible array of wildlife, including koalas, a vibrant variety of birdlife, and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest fur seal colony. Add to that the island's rugged coastline and pristine, unspoiled beaches, and you'll soon see why it’s worth staying on a journey around Victoria.

This lovely boutique property has one of the best locations in Port Douglas, it’s right on the beach and within walking distance of the café’s, shops and restaurants on Macorssan Street. This lovely property has one of the best locations in Port Douglas, it’s right on the beach and there is no traffic noise to mar the tranquil sounds of the sea. This is not a big, brash all singing, all dancing resort, rather a thoughtful adult’s only hideaway, perfectly suited for those looking for a relaxing stay in North Queensland.

Set on the edge of the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park, just 1½ hours drive north of Cairns, Silky Oaks Lodge blends the soothing qualities of the surrounding ancient rainforest with the indulgences of a luxury retreat.

Mount Mulligan Lodge is a relative newcomer to Australia’s luxury lodge scene, offering laid back luxury in the heart of Queensland’s outback, with the 18-kilometre long sandstone escarpment of Mount Mulligan offering an impressive backdrop. Just a 35-minute scenic helicopter transfer or two-and-a-half-hour drive through the outback, Mount Mulligan is remote, rugged and quintessentially Australian.

The Reef House Resort & Spa is a luxurious boutique resort with a sophisticated yet easy-going atmosphere and a stunning beachfront location in the heart of Palm Cove - at the gateway to the world’s most amazing natural wonders; the Great Barrier Reef and the World Heritage Rainforest.

Serenely nestled in a lush valley amid 28 acres of rainforest with dramatic views to Far North Queensland’s Daintree Mountains, this idyllic Balinese inspired hideaway.

Once a sleepy Far North Queensland fishing village, Port Douglas (a scenic one hour drive north of Cairns) has retained its laid-back charm yet now offers an array of shops, bars, chic cafés and fabulous restaurants.

Situated on the northernmost headland of a 2km stretch of untouched coastline on Oak Beach, Thala Nature Reserve is nestled among 145 acres of tropical rainforest, offering the perfect blend of a jungle eco-retreat and a beach hideaway. Beautifully secluded, Thala is just a fifteen-minute drive from the quaint seaside town of Port Douglas, which boasts a plethora of boutique shops, restaurants, and a marina from which many Great Barrier Reef cruises depart. We love that it is family-owned and offers the warmest of Aussie welcomes for nature lovers seeking a natural retreat in this unspoilt corner of Tropical North Queensland.

Hamilton Island is a vibrant destination nestled among Queensland’s 74 Whitsunday Islands. We love the laid-back vibe here – it feels like a small village on an island, complete with its own marina, numerous restaurants, and a wide array of activities. Whether you want to stay active or simply unwind, you can do as much or as little as you like. The island has its own airport, making it easily accessible from Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.

Experience wild bush luxury at Bamurru Plains – an extraordinary wilderness on the coastal floodplains of the Mary River delta in the Top End of Australia’s Northern Territory.

Remote, wild and visually stunning with Outback activities galore and perfect hosts, this half million acre working cattle property in the far north-west corner of the Northern Territory, is the quintessential Australian Outback Station.

Location, location, location! As the crow flies, this unique eco-sensitive ‘all-inclusive’ tented sanctuary is only 10kms from Uluru (Ayers Rock).

Located in the northeast corner of Australia’s Northern Territory, Arnhemland is a vast unspoiled wilderness area, home to the Yolngu traditional landowners and only visited by privileged few as permits are required to visit. It borders well known Kakadu National Park and with far fewer visitors is a truly authentic opportunity to connect with this ancient culture with sacred art sites and burial grounds dating back over 50,000 years.

Located just a 90-minute drive south of Darwin, Finniss River Lodge is a remote retreat surrounded by expansive floodplains and near the striking escarpment and waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. Cleverly designed to have minimal impact on the environment, the lodge seamlessly integrates into its stunning landscape and accommodates up to twelve guests in six luxurious suites.

Nestled along the riverfront close to the breathtaking Nitmiluk Gorge, this lodge is ideally positioned for exploring the wonders of this impressive landscape. Guests can stay here as part of a guided safari or self-drive as part of a longer outback adventure. The journey is just three and a half hours from Darwin, or two hours from Kakadu National Park.

Located just a 90-minute drive south of Darwin, Finniss River Lodge is a remote retreat surrounded by expansive floodplains and near the striking escarpment and waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. Cleverly designed to have minimal impact on the environment, the lodge seamlessly integrates into its stunning landscape and accommodates up to twelve guests in six luxurious suites.

Located just a 90-minute drive south of Darwin, Finniss River Lodge is a remote retreat surrounded by expansive floodplains and near the striking escarpment and waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. Cleverly designed to have minimal impact on the environment, the lodge seamlessly integrates into its stunning landscape and accommodates up to twelve guests in six luxurious suites.

Follow the surf three hours south of Perth and you will discover one of Australia’s finest boutique hotels – Cape Lodge – which sits on its own vineyard amidst 40 acres of manicured gardens and natural forest in the glorious Margaret River wine region.

Location is everything and Smiths Beach certainly has the best spot in Margaret River. Located among the sand dunes, this quintessential Australian resort is just steps from a beautiful stretch of pristine white sand, where surfers ride the waves just metres away.

The fabulous new Treasury hotel occupies a group of late Victorian stone and brick buildings – known at ‘State Buildings’ which have paid an important role in the Perth’s history in the past 140 years, serving variously as a post office, land titles office, and treasury.

Perth is emerging as one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Australia, with billions of dollars of investment. A brand new addition to Perth’s dining scene, Elizabeth Quay is a waterfront area with sophisticated restaurants and cafés. The new boutique Quay Perth Hotel is situated right on the Esplanade, just behind Elizabeth Quay with incredible views over the Swan River.

Tucked behind the powder-soft sands of the renowned Pinky Beach, one of Western Australia’s most beautiful coastal locations, Discovery Rottnest Island is the ideal base to stay in while exploring this unspoilt island. Plus, it’s only a half-hour ferry ride from Perth!

A true labour of love, The National Hotel Fremantle, located right in the heart of historic Fremantle (or Freo as the locals call it) now boasts twelve individually styled rooms, a traditional stylish pub with some of the finest live music ‘Freo’ has to offer and a stunning rooftop bar with 360-degree views across the city and ocean.

On a secluded beach at Injidup Bay, surrounded by national park, sits the Injidup Spa Retreat, a bolthole offering ten immaculately designed villas with their own pools and magical seaview panoramas.

Set in the stunning south west corner of Western Australia, just a 3 hour drive or 30 minute flight south of Perth, this superb beachfront resort enjoys one of Australia’s most desirable locations!

Just downriver from the centre of Perth, Fremantle is a fun, lively place to stay when visiting this region of Australia, its streets lined with cafes, restaurants and markets. It’s known for its maritime history, Victorian architecture and remnants from Australia’s days as a British penal colony.

Just a 45 minute drive from Brisbane, Glass on Glasshouse is the perfect place to relax and unwind at the start or end of your Australian holiday. Accommodation is provided in three stylish architect designed cottages with free-standing glass on two sides to enhance the magnificent views of Mount Beerwah and Mount Coonowrin.

Just 1½ hours leisurely drive north of Brisbane on the edge of beautiful Laguna Bay, sophisticated and cosmopolitan Noosa is the epitome of the ‘laid-back but stylish’ Australian beach village.

Located 1½ hours drive south-west of Brisbane (or 2 hours from Brisbane airport), surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Main Range National Park, Spicers Peak is a haven of luxury, relaxation and gastronomic delights.

Occupying a prime location on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, perched under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and across the water from the Opera House, this glamorous boutique hotel embraces the true meaning of five star luxury.

Hidden away on the magnificent Bouddi Peninsula, a 40 minute scenic seaplane flight from the centre of Sydney, this marvellous creation comprises of just 3 private luxury suites.

The luxurious Four Seasons Sydney is stunningly situated overlooking Sydney Harbour in the historic Rocks district, a short walk from the city's shopping and business centres.

Nestled amongst the natural bushland, you will find Paperbark Camp - Australia’s very first tented camp. However, these are no ordinary tents - and this is no ordinary camp!

Conveniently located just a short stroll from the Three Sisters, Lilianfels is a haven of elegance in the heart of the Blue Mountains.

With an enviable location on Circular Quay, just steps from the Opera House and facing the magnificent Harbour Bridge, this is Sydney’s most luxurious all-suite hotel – the boutique and stylish Pullman Quay Grand.

Located on the edge of the bustling city centre, the Harbour Rocks boutique hotel stands out with its grand exterior and historical architecture.

Crown Towers, the latest addition to the Sydney skyline, boasts prime position in the prestigious new Barangaroo area of the waterfront, with its sprawling parklands, public artworks and idyllic laneways restaurants and bars.

Located just one block back from Circular Quay, Capella Sydney has an enviable position close to the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and withing walking distance of Sydney’s hospitality and retail districts.

For those seeking a hotel with more of a local neighbourhood location, away from the tourist hotspots of Circular Quay and The Rocks, Ace Hotel is a new boutique hotel with a cool modern vibe situated on the edge of the city centre and Surry Hills.

Nestled among the rolling vines and native bush of the Hunter Valley, about a two-hour drive north of Sydney, Spicers Vineyard Estate is a gourmet boutique retreat perfect for a few days of exploring this picturesque corner of New South Wales. Spend your days sampling delicious wines at some of the Hunter Valley's top wineries or indulge in some serious pampering at Spa Anise.

Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region, Tower Lodge is a refined retreat, about two hours north of Sydney. With just 14 rooms, this exclusive property is part of the prestigious Tower Estate, surrounded by rolling vineyards.

Saffire is an awe-inspiring coastal sanctuary, stunningly positioned on the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s East Coast. Inspirational in its design and location, Saffire undoubtedly provides one of Australia’s most spellbinding luxury experiences.

The Freycinet Peninsula, one of Australia’s oldest and most spectacular coastal National Parks, projects eastward from the Tasmanian mainland and boasts a melting pot of natural habitats.

The result of an exciting transformation of a row of historic 1820’s sandstone warehouses and a former jam factory located on Hobart’s vibrant waterfront (the very site where Europeans first landed in Tasmania over 200 years ago), the Henry Jones is Australia’s first and only dedicated art hotel.

Nestled amid tranquil gardens in Hobart’s dress circle with stunning views towards Mt Wellington, this eleven room luxury hotel is one of Tasmania’s finest jewels.

This unique wilderness retreat enjoys a superb location on the edge of Tasmania’s World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park.

Avalon Coastal Retreat is a contemporary three-bedroom beach house which looks out across Great Oyster Bay on Tasmania’s stunning east coast. The house, which was designed by award-winning Australian architect Craig Rosevears, is a stylish blend of steel, glass and timber.

This stylish contemporary hotel takes its character from its thriving waterfront location - it is set on the Tamar riverfront in Launceston, in the heart of the city’s redeveloped Seaport Dock area which has undergone a major transformation in recent years from an historic wharf into a vibrant social hub with shops, restaurants and cafés.

As you approach these two stunning air-conditioned contemporary apartments through the backstreets of this charming fishing hamlet, you might see a sign for West Coast crayfish - buy some - as once you arrive, you simply won’t want to leave!