6 Once-in-a-Lifetime Luxury Lodges in Australia

Hannah Lewis

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Australia, then splurging on a luxury lodge is in order. The country is lightly scattered with beautiful gems, each of them responding to the natural environment in which they sit. Each of them strike the perfect balance of comfort and luxe. From seaside suites on far off islands to cosy country cabins and everything in between, here is our list of the six best luxury lodges in Australia.

1. Longitude 131, Yulara

Resort, Hotel

Longitude 131˚bedroom interior
Courtesy of Longitude 131˚ / Expedia

The sacred indigenous site Uluru, which is also the world’s biggest free standing rock is a must-add item for everyone’s bucket list. Longitude 131° is the ideal way to make the experiencing visiting the site which is located in the middle of the country even more unforgettable. The lodge comprises of 15 luxury sailed tents which have breathtaking views of the rock and are in prime position to watch the majestic sunrises and sunsets. There is also a central, communal tent called Dune House which is where you can sit back, relax and enjoy modern Australian food in the outback.

2. Lizard Island Resort, Cairns

Resort

This small lodge is reserved to have only 40 rooms for guests and it looks like it has been ripped from the front of a postcard. To get to the island you are transported in a small plane and treated to an incredibly beautiful scenic flight over the barrier reef. Once there, you are treated with impeccable service and amazing food, much of which is caught from the surrounding waters. The suites sit among the palm trees, with the crystal clear water is only a stone’s throw away and full of incredible marine life to admire while snorkeling.

3. Southern Ocean Lodge, Kingscote

Hotel, Lodge

Southern Ocean Lodge, Kingscote

Strung along the rugged coastline of South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, Southern Ocean Lodge is a diamond in the rough landscape. The 21 suites all respect the raw beauty of the environment and face towards the moody ocean. Despite its proximity to the water, Southern Ocean Lodge is also a wonderful winter destination too. You can snuggle up around the floating fireplace staring out the floor to ceiling glass. Guided tours of the natural flora and fauna are also available, as is a menu full of dishes made from local produce. The lodge is the best way to experience the region at its finest.

4. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Hotel

Does taking a plunge into your private, heated pool while admiring the view of a stunning mountain range beyond sound appealing? Then Wolgan Valley is for you. Aside from the lap of luxury you will enjoy, you will also be spoilt with silence and serenity. The property on which the lodge sits spans over 3000 hectares of beautiful bush lands free for you to explore. After enjoying a day or hiking and kangaroo spotting, pamper yourself at the Timeless Spa.

5. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth

Boutique Hotel, Lodge

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef glamping tents at night
Courtesy of Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef / Booking.com

Sal Salis is the epitome of rustic luxury and a once-in-a-lifetime destination that is well off the beaten track. The safari lodge is located in Ningaloo Reef, where some of the most incredible sea life in Australia call home. At different times of the year you can swim with the whale sharks and kayak alongside turtles. It is the ideal place for those that love the outdoors, as the 16 suites are designed to force you to reconnect with nature rather. This means TVs and Wifi are nowhere to be seen and instead they are replaced with the sea and sand. Simple, stunning and eco-luxury at its best.

6. El Questro Homestead

Resort, Homestay

Exploring Emma Gorge
© Janelle Lugge / Shutterstock

Unlike other members of this list, El Questro is far from the ocean and sits within an outback landscape that is one of Australia’s jewels in its crown – the Kimberley. The lodge has a communal space where you can make the most of the open bar and relaxing lounges by the pool, or opt for a private outdoor bath while admiring the stunning landscape of rugged orange cliffs and dusty plains. The homestead is impressively cantilevered over the Chamberlain River down below and looks like the country home dreams are made of.

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