Shangri-La Cairns

Enjoying a stunning location on beautiful Bedarra Island, sat in the pristine waters off the east coast of Australia’s mainland and on the doorstep of the mesmerising Great Barrier Reef, Bedarra presents an idyllic and exclusive escape in the sunshine. The best in barefoot luxury, this tropical haven is hidden amongst 45 hectares of rainforest and has immediate access to the soft white sands and turquoise waters of the reef, all while presenting a choice of spectacular villa accommodation.

Guests have a choice of ten luxurious villas to choose from at Bedarra, each hidden amongst the tropical rainforest and blessed by breathtaking views of the ocean, best enjoyed from the private sun terrace area. Almost all of the villas are unique in their structure and decor, with some benefiting from features such as plunge pools and covered outdoor lounges. Open-plan layouts allow plenty of space, while features such as full-length windows bring an abundance of light into the properties, while also allowing guests to make the most of the expansive and scenic views. Inside, guests will benefit from a range of modern conveniences, including the likes of an LED TVs, an iPods and an espresso machine.

The sheer beauty of the location ensures that any time spent here is one of relaxation and rejuvenation, and when it comes to a bit of indulgence, you’ll be well covered by the dining on offer. The open terrace restaurant, bar and lounge amount to a social hub at Bedarra, where the former offers an ever-changing daily menu, which is inspired by the idyllic location and the freshest local produce. The atmospheric bar is the perfect place to unwind before dinner, with its pre-dinner cocktail sessions and social layout, while a quieter experience can be had in Bedarra’s lounge area, adorned with a range of books and board games. The beach and surrounding coast present a range of activities for those looking to get active and adventurous during their stay, but for those just seeking serenity, a range of massages and spa treatments can be enjoyed courtesy of a beachfront massage pavilion.

Flee from the mainland to an utterly isolated and private island resort, fringed by coral reefs and shrouded by jungle, and an undeniable air of magic. The journey to this remote part of the world sets the tone for your stay and entails a private charter from either Cairns or Weipa.

Five carefully handcrafted huts are fronted by the beach, with kitchenettes, thatched roofs, driftwood furnishings, and airy open-plan designs. Arched doorways, bare stone or teak floors and gaping windows create a soothing sense of coolness, while earthy tones and textured fabrics add warming pops of colour. Private decks jut out over tropical foliage, while boardwalks lead to open showers, with huddles of palm trees serving as a backdrop.

After the sun has dipped behind the ocean, a heavenly feast of freshly caught seafood and produce from the resort’s orchard is served in the main dining room, under the light of flickering candles. Breakfast is a spread of fruit and homemade muesli, with eggs from the free-roaming chickens on the island, and lunch might even feature your own catch from the surrounding waters.

Adventure is a promise at this dreamy destination, with jet-skiing, beachcombing, snorkelling, spearfishing and boat excursions, being some popular picks on the menu of experiences. With a whole island at your doorstep, you’re encouraged to take your time to explore the beaches, venture into the jungle, or set off in a helicopter to hover over hidden waterfalls, before concluding with champagne atop a sand dune.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track getaway, this remote luxury lodge, set within an expansive outback heritage property in Far North Queensland, is sure to do the trick. This site, which is currently a working cattle station, is home to the old Mount Mulligan township, coal and gold mines, as well as a cemetery.

The lodge sits in the shadows of the imposing Mount Mulligan, bounded by a dramatic landscape and enclosed with eucalyptus woodlands. Eight guest rooms, including three suites, can house up to 16 guests, and come with assigned private electric buggies for easy access around the property. Interiors are filled with natural furnishings, such as spotted gum timber cladding, while earthy colour schemes create soothing spaces. Timber-framed glass doors open up onto private decks, deep outdoor baths and utterly spectacular vistas.

The main lodge is where dining takes place, and chefs make use of local produce to create innovative dishes that can be enjoyed outside. In-room dining is also available, and if you plan on heading off on a midday adventure, a gourmet picnic hamper can be made up. Some of the activities and excursions on offer are tours of the mine and the township, cattle mustering at the nearby station and paddle boarding or kayaking on the river. Guests with little inclination to venture into the dusty outback can grab a spot by the infinity pool, with a glass of award-winning Australian wine in hand.