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Unplug, Unwind: Australia’s Top Off-Grid & Secluded Stays
Written by Ashleigh Whitehill
From remote island glamping to bucket-list Red Centre retreats, these are Australia’s top off-grid and secluded stays.
With thousands of kilometres of rugged coastline, rusty red desert and ancient rainforest, Australia has no shortage of breathtaking natural landscapes. Making the most of these spectacular settings are a selection of luxurious off-grid and secluded stays allowing you to unplug, disconnect and immerse yourself in the pure beauty of nature. Imagine waking to the sound of singing birds or the gentle crashing of waves at your door. Picture brilliant sunrises that paint the rugged landscape in soft hues and clear night skies filled with more stars than you ever thought possible. At these unique Australian retreats, you can experience all this and more.
Luxury lodges
Mt Mulligan Lodge, QLD
Set on a working cattle station, in the shadow of spectacular Mt Mulligan (Ngarrabullgan), Mt Mulligan Lodge offers 28,000 hectares of wilderness serenity. This boutique property provides laid-back five-star indulgence in the heart of Queensland’s rugged outback for just 28 guests as a time. Unlock the true meaning of off-grid luxury as you soak up tranquil views of the captivating landscape from your private balcony; relax in the property’s unique infinity pool, overlooking a eucalyptus fringed weir; or indulge in pastoral-inspired fare paired with award-winning Australian wines at the intimate onsite restaurant.
El Questro Homestead, Kimberley, WA
Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the rugged Kimberley with a stay at the remote El Questro Homestead. Each room at The Homestead, cantilevered over the serene Chamberlain River, offers the ultimate outback experience. Spend your days wandering past ancient boab trees, admiring spectacular salt flats, marvelling at enormous gorges and swimming in crystal-clear swimming holes. Return to watch the sun set behind the burnt-orange cliffs, transforming the rugged landscape into a kaleidoscope of colour, before sitting down to a multi-course dinner under the stars.
Rainforest retreats
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Sunshine Coast, QLD
If relaxation to you sounds like rippling streams, singing birds and soft rain showers, Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat may be your dream escape. This lush hinterland retreat features eight exclusive villas set into the mountains – each offering incredible views over the forest, all the way to the coast. Every element of this boutique retreat has been carefully designed for romance – from features like double spa baths, log fireplaces and unparalleled rainforest views, down to little details like fresh roses, complimentary chocolates and sparkling wine.
mist at Cape Tribulation, QLD
Discover true peace and tranquility within the world’s oldest rainforest at the secluded mist at Cape Tribulation. Spectacularly located where rainforest meets reef, this exclusive retreat strikes a balance between laid-back luxury and eco-friendly excellence. It offers just three treehouse-inspired pavilions dotted across eight acres of lush rainforest. Surrounded by tropical fruit trees and offering magnificent views of Mount Sorrow, each pavilion is carefully designed to blend into the surrounding landscape and make guests feel as though they’re part of the rainforest – with all the comforts of a five-star stay.
Wilderness hideaways
Freycinet Resort, Coles Bay, TAS
Secluded luxury awaits at Freycinet Resort, nestled within the spectacular Tasmanian wilderness. With an elevated location on majestic Mount Paul and surrounded on all sides by thick eucalyptus forest, it boasts total privacy and uninterrupted 360-degree views. Spend your days discovering untouched beaches, exploring remote hiking trails or simply enjoying coastal views from your sun-soaked balcony. As night falls, look out for wallabies and wombats wandering past your lodge and be wowed by Tasmania’s beautifully clear night skies as you tuck into local seasonal fare at onsite Mount Paul Lodge.
CABN X Kangaroo Island, SA
Disconnect in ultimate luxury with a stay at adults-only CABN X Kangaroo Island. Offering captivating views over the sprawling wilderness and access to a private beach, these luxurious off-grid cabins are designed for a restorative stay. A cosy fireplace and deep-soaking bathtub foster relaxation indoors, while an outdoor tub and private sauna encourage further rejuvenation. Carefully positioned to maximise privacy, CABN X Kangaroo Island facilitates a complete digital detox, allowing you to unplug in total luxury.
Looking for an off-grid stay in wine country? Check out CABN X Seppeltsfield Barossa.
Outback escapes
Longitude 131°, Uluru, NT
Positioned among the rust-red dunes of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience awaits at Longitude 131°. Immerse yourself in Australia’s enchanting Red Centre at this ultra-luxe wilderness camp, boasting incredible views of two UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonders – Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. Spend your days admiring unrivalled views of the monolith from your sun-kissed balcony or awaken your senses at Spa Kinara, specialising in Aboriginal massage techniques and healing ingredients. Later, sit down to a four-course dinner beneath the sparkling desert sky – an exclusive outdoor dining experience worthy of every traveller’s bucket list.
Kings Creek Station, Kings Canyon, NT
Discover the majesty of the Northern Territory’s rugged outback with a luxury glamping experience at Kings Creek Station. Located at the foot of Kings Canyon (Watarrka) and the George Gill Range, a stay at this working cattle station places you in the heart of the NT’s desert terrain. It grants direct access to Watarrka National Park, a natural playground of soaring desert oaks, native wildlife, mighty gorges, rock holes and natural swimming pools. Return to Kings Creek Station to watch the sunset against the George Gill Range before toasting marshmallows by your firepit under the twinkling desert sky.
Waterfront oases
Tiwi Island Retreat, Tiwi Islands, NT
A secluded sanctuary offering breathtaking ocean views, Tiwi Island Retreat is off-grid luxury at its finest. Soak up all the shades of nature’s beauty from this remote paradise, tucked away on the unexplored west coast of Bathurst Island. Choose from luxuriously appointed beachfront glamping tents or classic ocean view rooms and spend your days fishing, picnicking on white sand beaches or learning about the local Indigenous culture. Dine on ocean-to-plate, Asian- and bush-tucker-inspired dishes, cooked over an open fire and smoker.
Marramarra Lodge, Hawkesbury River, NSW
Accessible only by boat or helicopter, Marramarra Lodge offers a truly remarkable off-grid experience. Located on the banks of the Hawkesbury River and framed by native forest, this lavish adults-only wilderness retreat offers complete and utter seclusion. Each contemporary tent or bungalow offers a balcony or deck to soak up majestic river and bushland views. Fittingly indulgent experiences include champagne and oyster cruises, daily degustations, sunset picnics, guided walks and restorative full body treatments at Iyora Day Spa.
Secluded stays
Glenayr Farm, Mudgee, NSW
Recharge with a stay at the boutique Glenayr Farm, a fully sustainable off-grid retreat across 320 acres in the Mudgee wine region. Wake to unforgettable sunrises, spend hours lazing on your daybed or soak up breathtaking views of the surrounding hinterland, abundant with native wildlife and farm animals. Choose from gorgeously styled glamping tents or romantic luxury villas, each boasting tranquil views and access to outdoor wood-fired hot tubs. After a serene day reconnecting with nature, prepare for a breathtaking sunset and some of the best stargazing opportunities in Australia.
Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Blue Mountains, NSW
Experience a seamless connection with the wonders of nature on a stay at five-star Spicers Sangoma Retreat, amid the birdsong and bushland of Blue Mountains. This all-inclusive forest sanctuary offers just eight ultra-private, treehouse-style suites, each boasting panoramic views of the surrounding forest. Deepen your connection to the local area with a daily harvest-inspired degustation menu and outdoor activities including abseiling, mountain biking and hiking.
Elysia Wellness Retreat, Hunter Valley, NSW
Find peace of mind among blissful surrounds at Elysia Wellness Retreat. This serene Hunter Valley retreat offers a selection of wellness experiences including daily tai chi classes, healing acupuncture sessions and aspirational workshops covering a range of topics – from building resilience to sleeping soundly. Breathe in fresh country air and take advantage of uninterrupted valley views from your private balcony, before feeding your body with nourishing fare at the retreat’s restaurant. Complete your wellness experience with a visit to Elysia Day Spa where expert therapists provide restorative treatments, tailored to your needs.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out the Best Luxury Resorts For Families.
Feature image: Longitude 131°.
