Cicada Lodge

Set on 500,000 acres of privately owned countryside at the convergence of the Bullo and Victoria Rivers, Bullo River Station is surrounded by pristine landscape, carved with gorges and decorated with waterfalls. This working cattle station and homestead offers guests a beautiful rural escape. Station life is ever-changing with no two days the same. One thing you can count on is the hospitality, great meals and generous, comfortable surrounds.

Inspired by the landscape, the 12 guest rooms are styled to provide an inviting sanctuary, perfect after a day on the station. Each room opens out onto the shady lawns and is cool and comfortable, with a king or twin-beds, air-conditioning and modern en-suite. In the comfortable communal area guests can help themselves to freshly baked goodies, and enjoy a drink with fellow travelers.

Perched high up on the ridgeline you’ll find a lone pair of huts offering complete seclusion and intimacy. Accessible by helicopter, drink in the Top End’s famous sunsets from the deck with its vast and spectacular outlook over the outback.

This vast property is not only home to around 4,000 Brahman-cross cattle, but also a stunning variety of local fauna species including wallabies, dingoes, wild buffalo, a myriad of native and migratory birds, fish and crocodiles.

With over two decades of experience in this harsh, vast but stunning wilderness, Lord’s Safaris arrange incredible tailored tours based out of an exclusive camp in Kakadu.

The camp, basic but functional, has space for 12 guests, but it is also possible to arrange entirely private safaris. The tents themselves are permanent structures with floors, beds, doors and solar fans and lights.

Exploring the region in a 4WD vehicle, you’ll get to discover some of Australia’s most important cultural heritage and stunning vistas, a patchwork of deserts, wildlife rich billabongs and waterfalls. Arnhem Land is a place where the Aboriginal culture thrives, and, having cultivated relationships with the local people, you can experience this ancient way of life in a uniquely close way with privileged access. You’ll be shown incredible rock art sites, some 8000 years old, by Aboriginal guides and meet craftspeople for an unparalleled insight into their ancient way of life. You can also swim in cool creeks, go birdwatching, head out on boat rides and take scenic hikes up rocky escarpments. Tours range in length from two days to two weeks, often with stays at lodges such as Bamurru Plains.

Set in a remote location between Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs, Kings Canyon is a welcoming oasis in the heart of Australia’s outback.

The resort offers 128 rooms, from rustic campground suites to luxurious private units. Make the most of all that is on offer here with two swimming pools, tennis courts, outdoor barbeques and its own general store and souvenir shop.

Enjoy dining at the hotel’s Desert Oaks Bistro which serves light meals throughout the day and head to the Thirsty Dingo Bar for a cool drink after a day out exploring. A highlight of your stay here is the ‘Under a Desert Moon’  dining experience where you can feast on the finest Australian food and wine under the stars.

Located three hours from Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs, and close to the Watarrka National Park, you will be perfectly based to spend your days discovering the Red Centre of Australia whether on a hike in the rugged terrain or a tour to see its many sites.

Overlooking Darwin harbour and in the heart of the city, Mantra on Esplanade is in a prime location with panoramic views across the waterfront.

The hotel has a variety of rooms and apartments to choose from as well as the Penthouse Suite, all with modern decor and bright furnishings that draw on the tropical Darwin surroundings. The apartments each feature a private balcony and a fully-equipped kitchen.

The hotel has welcoming communal spaces including a lagoon-style swimming pool and an onsite beauty salon with pampering treatments. In the evenings enjoy fine dining at the hotels Finz Restaurant and Bar or head down the road to Mitchell Street – the city’s restaurant precinct.

A short drive from the hotel will see you at some of the biggest attractions and sites of the area including the Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and Katherine Gorge.