Luxury places to rest your head

From the moment you lay your eyes on Lizard Island after your flight over the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, you know your time here is going to be special. The aquamarine reef sprawls below you hugging the group of islands contrasting with the deep blue ocean and white sand. As you prepare to land, see how many of the 24 private beaches you can spot – you can commandeer your own motorised dinghy to explore them at your own leisure later (deluxe picnic hamper in tow of course).

But first, it’s time to check in and check out this little heaven on earth. The resort offers a range of luxury rooms up to the epitome of elegance, The Villa; featuring panoramic ocean views complete with an 8m private plunge pool. If you ever feel like leaving your room, take advantage of the stand-up paddle boards and sea kayaks, head out to world-class reefs on a dive expedition, or up the relaxation mode at Essentia Day Spa. Wind down for sunset at Salt Water Restaurant with an exquisite ever-changing menu focussing on quality local produce. This is your one-way ticket to feeling like royalty.

Venture through World Heritage Rainforest, the Atherton Tablelands and into a 20,000-year-old landscape carved out by an ancient volcano. Your four-hour scenic 4WD journey concludes at MacEacherns Camp set on the 70,000 acre Kinrara Station. Here you are welcomed onto country by the local Gugu Badhun peoples before being introduced to the luxury camping facilities that will be your base for the next five days. The Gugu Badhun are the people of the ‘Valley of the Lagoons’ and your private camp oasis overlooks one of these breathtaking water sources overflowing with rich plant and animal species.

This fully hosted expedition takes you into a world unlike any other and is the perfect experience for nature lovers who still enjoy their creature comforts. Opt for a helicopter tour over the volcano crater, mountain biking through the bush, birdwatching, swimming and fishing, or simply choose to stretch out in a hammock with your favourite book. Your hosts will craft your days to your taste for an escape into real Australia that is both extraordinary and rejuvenating.

Kinrara Expeditions is operational between April to October to ensure your ultimate comfort with pleasant temperatures and minimal rain.

In the back-country 150kms north-west of Cairns, rugged outback meets luxury at all-inclusive Mount Mulligan Lodge. An 18km escarpment dominates the landscape with the lodge perfectly positioned to enjoy views over their weir towards the sandstone range. Set on a 28,000-hectare cattle station, the property is rich in history and features the remains of the Mount Mulligan township, coal mine and Tyrconnel gold mine which can be explored by foot or ATV.

Corrugated iron outdoor baths, spotted gum timber cladding, natural textures and earth-toned finishings pay homage to the surrounding landscape and pastoral heritage of the property. Each room is provided with a personal electric buggy for guests to zip between their room, Main Pavilion and Sunset Bar. The weir provides a spectacular vista towards the towering range of Mount Mulligan where guests can choose to paddleboard, kayak or fish for a prized barramundi.

From sipping sunset cocktails on remote sand cays, to experiencing the famous Cod Hole, YOTSPACE Superyacht Voyages offer all inclusive cruises that are the epitome of luxe life.

Join a maximum of seven other guests on board a luxury vessel, which features indoor and alfresco dining areas, cocktail bar, sun loungers and a large jacuzzi hot tub.

After action-packed days of exploring the Great Barrier Reef, private sand cays and islands, tuck into 5 star gourmet cuisine and rest your head in your own en-suite stateroom.

Take to the water in one of the Superyacht toys, which include clear bottom kayaks, a sea scooter and water skis, for a Great Barrier Reef experience that is relaxing and enthralling in equal parts.

Luxury and rustic come together to at the super exclusive Gilberton Outback Retreat. A maximum of two guests can enjoy the private cabin offering the quintessential Aussie outback experience with a modern twist on the iconic tin shed. Perched on a hill with uninterrupted views over the Gilbert River, use this digital detox as an escape from the outside world and immerse yourself in the rugged landscape and station life. Visit ancient Aboriginal art sites, test your luck at fossicking, take a 4WD tour or venture out for a bushwalk. Wash off the days’ dust in your bath as the sunsets with panoramic views over the arid bushland.

When it comes to falling asleep to the sound of the rainforest, Silky Oaks Lodge deliver in the most luxurious way possible. Adjacent to the ancient Daintree rainforest on the Mossman River, this retreat is truly where the old meets the new, having just had a multi-million dollar rebuild. Lodging options range from a king bed retreat to a two ensuite bedroom pavilion complete with a plunge pool and multi open-air lounging areas. Each suite is garnished with luxurious touches, such as breezy hammocks, outdoor showers and fireplaces.

During your stay you can dine in style at the Treehouse Restaurant, which offers an innovative, contemporary Australian menu featuring the finest local produce. While your days away snorkelling or kayaking the Mossman River, or up the ante on relaxation with a luxurious treatment at the Healing Waters Spa.