1 Capella Lodge

Capella is the epitome of barefoot luxury set within a subtropical escape. With clear views over the Pacific Ocean and the world’s southern-most coral reef, Capella Lodge rests above Lord Howe Island’s tiny, secret beach at Lovers Bay. The Lodge’s dramatic coastal location, architectural integrity, fine regional cuisine and guided interpretive adventures have ensured its place as a local and international destination of choice. Australian experiential luxury accommodation at its best.

DO & SEE
Take a dip in the horizon pool or relax with a book taking in the spectacular backdrop of mountains and subtropical forests of green pastures running to the jewel-toned reef.
Feeling adventurous? The lodge offers several diving and snorkeling experiences to explore the reefs teeming with rainbow-coloured fish. Prefer to stay dry? Take a trip on the resorts glass bottom boat tour to view coral holes where stunningly beautiful reef fish and delicate coral formations abound.

PACK
A couple of pairs of board shorts, light weight cover ups and a cool panama hat.

 Capella Lodge

Lagoon Road, Lord Howe Island | www.capellalodge.com.au

2 Berkeley River

A new level of luxury accommodation lays in the remote Kimberley Coast, offering the essential qualities of the outback wilderness combined with supreme comfort and style. It is no wonder Berkeley River Lodge has taken out the gold in the 42nd Western Australia Tourism Awards 2 years in a row for Unique Accommodation. A float plane from Kununurra will transport you to one of the 20 ocean view villas; sat atop a 65 metre coastal dune with stunning views of the area, providing an escape like no other.

DO & SEE
Take a trip to the Kimberley’s remotest fishing spots via your own private helicopter casting a line in prime barramundi territory for the ultimate unique experience. If you are traveling as a couple, spoil your loved one with a specially prepared picnic – lunch prepared by the lodge’s chef positioned besides secluded waterholes.

PACK
Some practical sneakers and a supply of active gear for activities.

Berkeley River Lodge

1 North Street, Berkeley River, Kununurra | www.berkeleyriverlodge.com.au

 3Ski In Ski Out

As if the peace and calm of the snow wasn’t enough as a location, add in to the equation one of Ski In Ski Out Thredbo’s luxury chalets for your visit. Private chalets situated on Crackenback Drive are literally steps away from the slopes, this is serenity, luxury and comfort all rolled into one. Whether you’re at the snow just for a winter escape or are a regular to skiing and snowboarding, everything that you need on a snow holiday is here. An escape deal for a family or groups of friends.

DO & SEE
Spend the day on the slopes – Thredbo offers a terrain to suit all levels on the country’s longest runs. After warming up and unwinding in your own personal steam room and jacuzzi, take a 10 minute walk to Thredbo village and enjoy a mulled wine and pizza at T-Bar Restaurant.

PACK
Regular skiing essentials including an aviator hat for extra warmth, oh and don’t forget apres-ski wear.

Ski In Ski Out Chalets

Crackenback Drive, Thredbo | www.skiinskiout.com.au 

4 Crystal Creek

The quintessentially Australian slice of heaven, Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is located an hour away from Gold Coast airport. Everything about this place is luxury Aussie style – laid back, intimate with nature. Your hosts provide you with all the information when you book in. Once they escort you to your bungalow, although you can call on them at any time, it’s just you, and nature. Luxury tree houses perched in the rainforest canopy transport you to a far away paradise.

DO & SEE
Reserve the Satinash glass bungalow – a luxury tree house with glass walls, a large verandah with a BBQ, a huge jacuzzi, a TV in each the living room and bedroom, and an outdoor shower. Take the Lookout route walk which will take you up to a breathtaking view of the valley below and through to the coast or stroll down to the hammocks and swimming holes at the natural creek springs. If you do happen to crave swimming pools, there are 3 larger lodges with their own private decks and pools.
Planning on impressing that certain someone? Head out for a walk and return to a bungalow lit with tea candles, a table set for dinner, a dozen roses, chocolates and champagne, or anything else personalised for your partner.

PACK
Comfortable pants for lazing around and a ranger hat for forest adventures.

Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

201 Brookers Road, Murwillumbah | www.ccrr.com.au 

5 Paperbark Camp

A clever compromise between the outdoors and luxury. One word for Paperbark Camp: phenomenal. Pitched 3 hours drive away from Sydney in Jervis Bay, this getaway is the first Australian resort to offer a luxury upmarket safari camp experience (they’ve been around for years in Africa). There is nothing like these solar-powered deluxe tents, set in a bush sanctuary where the lovely staff make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.

DO & SEE
Settle into your Deluxe King Tent, take a bath or sip on a scotch on your own wraparound verandah feeling completely at home in an authentic nature setting. If you fancy exploring, head to Booderee National Park for a trek- nothing too arduous; go kayaking along the Currambene Creek or head to Hyams beach with a picnic hamper (officially the whitest sand in the world). There are no cooking facilities in the tents so grab dinner at Paperbarks restaurant for a bush tucker feel with a chilli influence from the chef.

PACK
Casual pieces and be sure to include a sweater or a parka jacket, as it can get chilly in the evenings.

Paperbark Camp

571 Woolamia Road, Jervis Bay | www.paperbarkcamp.com.au

By Oliver Grand