This is the northernmost reef resort, 240 km north of Cairns. Similar to its siblings on Bedarra and Dunk islands, this upscale all-inclusive resort provides its guests with a breathtaking castaway location and stylish well-designed facilities geared toward monied folk—celebrities and well-heeled globetrotters among them. The rates here are not for the faint-of-heart, but everything from the French champagne to sunset catamaran cruises is included in the nightly tariff.
This exclusive hotel is set within 1,000 hectares of national parkland replete with rolling hills, granite outcroppings, sprawling meadows, dozens of secluded coves and sandy beaches, and coral-fringed reefs that are home to abundant marine and avian life. Over the past five years, the hotel's image has undergone a major makeover; this once informal and moderately-priced operation is now an award-winning seafront lodge with a notable spa, respectable dining, and accommodations and public areas that successfully blend modern comforts with international style.
The breezy open-air main building flanks palm-shaded lawns, a pool and a tennis court. Inside, fans whirl overhead in the elegant, spacious, tropical-library themed lobby, which harbors a delightful clublike
cocktail lounge. The custom rattan furniture and island art create a posh place to relax.
The revamped dining room is a crescent-shaped venue overlooking the beach that offers up creative Australian creations and distinguished wines. Lavish picnic baskets are provided for those who prefer dining on the beach or in a secluded nook. The bar also serves up light fare.
Nearly two-dozen beaches are on the island. Included in the tariff are tennis, sailboarding, use of catamarans and dinghies, glass-bottomed boat rides, and basic fishing and snorkeling gear. A marine naturalist guides complimentary snorkeling tours, and diving, reef trips, sunset cruises, and game fishing cost extra. A small shop sells sundries, gift and resort wear. Secured parking in Cairns fetches fees; transfers are by small aircraft, with luggage limitations.
The stylish contemporary lodgings are housed in large bungalows nestled among coco palms just above the beach. Designed with indoor-outdoor living in mind, they display muted colors with Asian and Australian accents and custom light-wood furnishings. Standard amenities include ceiling fans, air conditioning, desks, phones, minibars, teamakers, irons, ironing boards, and one king or two double beds. Marble shower-only baths are supplied with dual basins, robes, hair dryers and beach towels. All units have balconies, although many standard rooms lack sea views. In keeping with the hideaway ambience, TVs and radios are absent, but the recent addition of CDs and modems for Internet access bring civilization within reach. The smallish standards are best left to children and traveling nannies, while the suites are spacious and inviting. The premier choices here, however, are the large and plush Villas and new extravagant Pavilion perched above the water for optimum views.
One of the country's top tropical destinations, this superlative getaway still attracts royalty, politicians and corporate bigwigs who come here in search of privacy and relaxation.
