Australia's Natural Treasures
Here they are. Four iconic natural treasures synonymous with Australia, the amazing technicolour corals of the Great Barrier Reef, rejuvenating rainforest, the ancient lands of Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park and one of the world’s final frontiers, the Outback. We look at places to stay, accommodation specially selected with an eye to the way it blends in with its environment. Not to mention its proximity to some of the most breathtaking sights on earth
Australian Outback
The Kimberley region in far North Western Australia is one of the last true frontiers. It is an ancient land extending from Broome in the South West to Kununurra and Wyndham near the Northern Territory border. With its vast, rugged plains, rainforest pockets, gorges and waterfalls, its easy to feel a sense of discovery, that you might be the very first person to set foot here
Voyages El Questro Wilderness Park
El Questro Wilderness Park is one of the world's most unique holiday destinations. One million acres in size and a working cattle station with a herd 5,000 strong, El Questro provides a truly authentic Australian holiday experience. Its located about 50 miles into the heart of the Kimberley region, most of which has never been explored. Take a helicopter ride for unforgettable views of the furthest and most remote parts. Or go boating along the magnificent Chamberlain Gorge bordered by towering 200 foot escarpments on one side and lush tropical vegetation on the other. A day spent with a ranger will introduce you to a plethora of wildlife including wild donkeys, goannas (giant lizards that grow to over 2m long), sea eagles, jabirus and rainbow colour parrots. You may even glimpse a saltwater crocodile!
For couples, families and friends seeking style and comfort two types of accommodation are offered. The Emma Gorge Resort with its well appointed Tented Cabins or the comfortable, stylish Station Township Bungalows at the Parks centre. Again both have been designed to blend in beautifully with their surrounding environment.
Emma Gorge Resort Tented Cabin
Emma George Resort is hidden within the fiery red of El Questro's Cockburn Ranges. Nestled between palms and pandanus, gravel paths link the Tented Cabins with the superb restaurant and its spacious verandahs, bar, reception and gorge. A short stroll along the gorge, past vines and butterfly-filled trees, takes you to a huge turquoise waterhole - idyllic for swimming. Alternatively, just relax in the pool and lounge area shaded by native trees and landscaped gardens on the banks of Emma Gorge Creek.
Station Township Bungalows
At the heart of El Questros facilities, on the banks of Pentecost River lie the stylish Bungalows, great for families and those who like their home comforts. Conveniently located next to the Steakhouse Restaurant and Swinging Arm Bar, all the bungalows are fully air-conditioned and just a short stroll away can be found a peaceful swimming hole.
Australian Rainforest
Couples and friends seeking a soulful rainforest retreat as well as a base from which to explore the exquisite Tropical North Queensland region need look no further than Daintree National Park. Another World Heritage Site, it is estimated the rainforest has existed continuously for more than 110 million years - the oldest living rainforest on earth. Here is the most extensive and varied array of plants, marsupials and singing birds including many rare and endangered species.
Voyages Silky Oaks Lodge and Healing Waters Spa
From the moment you arrive at Silky Oaks Lodge you feel the aura of the Daintree. Combining a soothing blend of contemporary design and relaxed sophistication, the sights and sounds of the rainforest surround you. In complete harmony with this lush, tropical environment are 50 stylish, furnished Treehouses and Riverhouses each boasting private spa baths and wide verandahs. The Treehouse Restaurant takes full advantage of its extraordinary location, perched high above the Mossman River. It has a superb menu too, showcasing the freshest and finest produce. Only 20 minutes from Port Douglas the retreat provides the perfect base from which to explore the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns or the Atherton Tablelands. The rejuvenating power of water, the tranquil sounds of the rainforest and a variety of indigenous-based treatments provide the ingredients and inspiration for the Healing Waters Spa. Allow this peaceful environment to relax your body and nurture your spirit in this oasis of elegance and calm.
Great Barrier Reef
What more can be said about Australia’s Great Barrier Reef? The world’s largest collection of coral reefs run for an amazing 1,240 miles along the eastern coast. A World Heritage Site with over 400 kinds of coral, 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusc. It’s also the last remaining vestige of many endangered species such as the dugong ('sea cow') and large green turtle.
Voyages Dunk Island
This palm fringed tropical island resort was known to its first inhabitants as Coonanglebah the Isle of Peace and Plenty. Lying midway between Townsville and Cairns its within easy reach of the Reef and its 160 rooms (all with beach or tropical garden views) are ideal for families, friends or couples, as well as being the perfect honeymoon destination. There’s plenty to do from golf and rainforest rambles to galloping along the beach on horseback or snorkelling. Alternatively, just sit back and relax in the award-winning Spa of Peace and Plenty.
Voyages Heron Island
Heron Island with its ribbons of sugar white sands is a nature lovers paradise. Located right on the Reef (and boasting some of the best dive spots in Australia) all the flora and fauna on the island is protected. You wont see any buildings above the treeline here - the resort is designed to blend in perfectly with its surroundings. Ideally suited for special occasions such as weddings and honeymoons, it caters excellently for families too. 7-12 year olds can be inducted as Heron Junior Rangers where they’ll get up close and personal with the wildlife, including a marvellous variety of marine creatures.
Ayers Rock
The Central Australian landscape of Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park is believed by the Anangu Aboriginal people to have been created at the beginning of time, so they take their role as custodians of these ancient, ancestral lands very seriously. Rising majestically from the red desert plain is Uluru, probably Australia’s most recognisable natural icon. One of the largest monoliths in the world, it stands over a thousand feet tall. Equally stunning, twenty miles to the west lies Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), the Aboriginal name meaning many heads'. It’s a group of more than thirty rounded, red domes, the tallest even higher than Uluru. Sunsets and sunrise over these extraordinary landmarks are spectacular as the colours become increasingly vibrant and ever changing. Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, a World Heritage Site, stretches over an area of 300,000 acres.
Ayers Rock Resort
Nestled behind large sand dunes at the gateway to the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, Ayers Rock Resort is a welcoming oasis. Though remote the Resort boasts an impressive range of accommodation and everything here reflects a sensitivity to the environment and respect for the area's traditional Aboriginal heritage.
Voyages Outback Pioneer Hotel
Within the resort this hotel offers a taste of Australia’s pioneering past. The 3 star hotel is ideal for families, couples and friends alike with quality service in relaxed surroundings. Enjoy a beer at the do-it-yourself BBQ as you trade stories of your day’s adventures in the Outback.
Voyages Lost Camel
Also a 3 star hotel, Lost Camel has an eclectic mix of Aboriginal and urban styles with bright open spaces. Especially suitable for couples it offers contemporary, studio type accommodation - and no TVs so you can truly escape! After a days exploring, relax in the intimate café and lobby bar, or in the inviting pool and deck at the heart of the hotel.
