Australia's newest openings
Heading all the way to Australia is certainly classed as a ‘big trip’ so really make it count while you’re there. Read up on these tantalizing new openings that will make the journey seem like a distant memory.
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Marra Marra Lodge, Hawksberry River
Situated on the Hawksberry River, just one hour from Sydney, this wilderness lodge is surrounded by native bushland and opens out onto the river itself. Framed by the Marramarra National Park, coming to Marramarra Lodge means being immersed in the rhythms of river life, far from the busyness of modern life.
If you love the peace of nature, coupled with a high quality of accommodation, then a stay at this luxe yet secluded lodge will be the perfect fit. Fill your days on the river kayaking, fishing or paddleboarding or enjoy a boat trip – best taken at sunset accompanied by champagne. Make time to enjoy one of the 14 residences choosing between a riverside safari tent or a bungalow which has both river and bush views. All the residences feel very private, a secluded spot for you to enjoy the river, and all come with stylishly appointed with river stone bathrooms, large terraces, and bespoke artwork.
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Silky Oaks Lodge, Daintree, Australia
Recently undergoing a complete closure and renovation, Silky Oaks Lodge stands enveloped by the tropical north of Daintree in Queensland. Beautifully reimagined, Silky Oaks Lodge has been acquired by the team behind sensational hotels such as Longitude 131, Uluru, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, Vancouver Island and Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island.
Located where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, staying at Silky Oaks means immersion in the 180-million-year-old rainforest while experiencing a high level of comfort. Your home will be in a luxury treehouse made from local timber with views to the Mossman River and the rainforest allowing you to totally submit to the surrounding nature. To unwind further, take a trip to the Healing Waters Spa, where you take a mineral bath surrounded by ancient trees before a soothing massage. Evenings are for dining on the terrace listening to the squawks of the forest while you feast on local ingredients crafted in a contemporary Australian menu.
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Bruny Boat House, Tasmania
On the southern tip of Tasmania lies Bruny Island, and on the furthest tip of this faraway isle is Bruny Boat House, a wooden cabin of considerable charm, which sleeps four, and is cradled into the waterfront offering unrestricted ocean views, silhouetted by the distant mountains and islets of Bruny. A self-catering option, the house has a nautical-luxe theme, with high ceilings and wood panelling, plus a well-stock pantry, modern kitchen and bedrooms with beds swathed in French linen.
Whether you’re a family or small group, there’s something mesmerising about the proximity of the ocean and the changing panorama from dawn to dusk. Sat on your terrace, you can decide whether you’ll jump straight in from your private jetty or head out on a yacht or fishing trip or wander down to the beach to collect shells. Don’t forget to explore Bruny Island too – its plethora of wildlife means you’ll spot white wallabies, fur seals and albatrosses.
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The Louise, Barossa
Cradled by the rolling hills and verdant vineyards of wine-region Barossa, east of Adelaide, The Louise has undergone a huge makeover and guests can expect a high level of comfort in the villa-style suites that feel very private and come with high ceilings, rain showers and spa baths, plus a lovely terrace facing the vines – the perfect place to enjoy a drop or two of shiraz that’s grown in the region.
As well as wine tastings and vineyard tours, the area is ripe for exploration. Have breakfast with kangaroos, take a bush walk or bicycle the scenic surroundings, taste gin at the local distillery or get behind the wheel of a classic Mustang convertible for a drive around the countryside. Best of all, when you come back to The Louise, you’ll have a wonderful dinner to look forward to. Featuring local, seasonal ingredients you’ll enjoy an upscale dining experience, washed down with, of course, some fine wine.
