For a country that is as expansive as it is incredible, there are almost too many enticing Australian bucket-list-worthy experiences on offer. These are the most luxurious, iconic and unbelievable Australian escapes that every luxury traveller must experience at least once in their lifetime.
Sequoia Lodge
Looking for a memorable escape that stays with you long after you check out? Sequoia Lodge in South Australia‘s Adelaide Hills provides a fresh take on luxury accommodation, offering a holistic wellness experience that allows guests to completely rest and recharge. Every element of this five-star, adults-only hideaway has been designed for wellness – generous suites with sprawling sun-soaked balconies allow direct access to the surrounding hinterland; cultivated spa treatments foster complete rejuvenation and a fresh and seasonal dining menu nourishes mind, body and soul.
Longitude 131°, Northern Territory
A truly remarkable experience awaits at Longitude 131°. Set among the rust-red dunes of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, this iconic five-star glamping retreat allows unprecedented access to not one, but two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Soak up uninterrupted views of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa from the privacy of your sun-soaked balcony, with each tent and pavilion offering expansive views.
Your stay is an opportunity to connect with Australia’s ancient Indigenous culture – embark on a guided Uluṟu base walk, discover the unique symbols and painting styles used in Aboriginal art or taste your way through bush ingredients with an intimate dinner under the stars. Longitude 131° is more than just a resort; it’s an all-encompassing journey into the heart of Outback Australia.
Orpheus Island Lodge, Queensland
Private island luxury at its most exclusive, the newly renovated Orpheus Island Lodge hosts no more than 28 guests at any one time to preserve absolute coastal serenity. Beautifully appointed rooms and a sparkling infinity pool nudge up against the wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef for this Australian bucket list experience.
Sprawling over 1,000 hectares of lush tropical parkland and 11 kilometres of sparkling turquoise coast, this calming coastal oasis is crisscrossed by tranquil walking trails. The lapping waves and sandy shoreline are all yours to enjoy as you please – from paddleboarding to doggy paddling. Drink in balmy evenings with a cocktail in hand at the alfresco Pavilion Bar or sink into absolute relaxation with a restorative treatment at the Gwandalan Spa.
Southern Ocean Lodge, South Australia
Regularly hailed as one of the world’s top luxury lodges, Southern Ocean Lodge is an exclusive retreat on Kangaroo Island. Architecturally designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, the award-winning lodge features a string of luxurious guest suites and pavilions, all with breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean.
Base yourself here and spend your days exploring conservation parks, spotting native wildlife or touring the island’s boutique distilleries, wineries and providores. Daily dining showcases the very best regional ingredients, with delights like local marron and fresh-caught whiting regularly gracing the menu. Between meals, visit Southern Spa for a signature treatment, where experienced therapists use locally crafted natural beauty products.
Silky Oaks Lodge, Queensland
Take your rainforest escape to new heights at Silky Oaks Lodge, where luxury treehouses nestle above the Mossman River in Tropical North Queensland. Wake to birdsong and leafy views before easing into a treatment at Healing Waters Spa. Spend the afternoon beside the garden-fringed pool, then settle in for fine dining at the open-air Treehouse Restaurant.
The Hydro Majestic Hotel, New South Wales
This iconic hotel is a must-stay for those eager to blend their love of heritage, nature escapes and old-world elegance. Step into this Art Deco stalwart, located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, where the likes of Sir Edmund Barton (Australia’s first Prime Minister) and Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes, have stayed. The hotel is only a short drive away from the Three Sisters at Echo Point and the Scenic Skyway cable car, perfect for guests wanting to take in the must-see sights of the region. Back at the hotel, indulge in award-winning dining at chef-hatted The Wintergarden.
InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel, Queensland
Private island luxury takes on new meaning at five-star InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel. Located on an exclusive island in the sun-drenched Whitsundays, this award-winning retreat offers an extravagant escape, plus direct access to one of the world’s breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Great Barrier Reef.
Underwater adventures are aplenty here, whether you enjoy snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding or sailing. When you’re not exploring the reef, savour gourmet delights at one of the resort’s three world-class restaurants, relax by a sparkling pool or indulge in a restorative treatment at Hayman Spa & Salon. Whether it’s an unforgettable honeymoon, family-friendly escape or once-in-a-lifetime group getaway, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel satisfies every bucket list.
Bullo River Station, Northern Territory
It’s not every day you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Australia’s Top End. At Bullo River Station, you have the rare chance to experience unbelievable native wildlife and unique bushland without sacrificing a luxurious experience – without a doubt, bucket-list-worthy. Unwind in impeccably styled spaces with touches that pay homage to the glorious landscape while maintaining an array of modern comforts.
Let this inspiring space ignite your sense of adventure – explore nearby gorges on horseback, cruise the sparkling Bullo River, or admire the unrolling desert and learn about ancient Miriuwung-Gajerrong culture while sky-high on a helicopter tour. As the sun sets over the picturesque horizon, stretch out on a hammock strung between palm trees and soak up every last morsel of serenity.
Mt Mulligan Lodge, Queensland
Boutique accommodation at its finest, Mt. Mulligan Lodge has a sleek, modern take on the spirit of the outback and ensures a comfortable and secluded stay that beats all expectations. Occupying an idyllic pocket of pristine North Queensland outback, the lodge is set at the foot of the monumental Mount Mulligan, also known as Ngarrabullgan. Set on a thriving cattle station, the expansive site provides premium five-star luxury where you least expect it – in the thick of an untamed natural landscape. Zip around your lodgings aboard your personal golf buggy, from spectacularly designed rooms to refreshing drinks at the Sunset Bar and serene swims in the sparkling infinity pool.
The Langham Gold Coast, Queensland
Explore the sun-kissed shores of the Gold Coast from one of Australia’s most glamorous high-rise hotels, The Langham Gold Coast. Set on the shores of Surfers Paradise and boasting direct beach access, the five-star, all-apartment property offers a selection of one- to four-bedroom residences, perfect for extended stays. Experience sky-high lavish living as you soak up ocean or hinterland views from your sun-soaked balcony, sunbathe by one of two sparkling pools, indulge in a tailored treatment at Chuan Spa and savour Cantonese fine-dining at T’ang Court. For an elevated escape, the Langham’s famous afternoon tea is essential – a bucket-list experience in itself.
Sails in the Desert, Northern Territory
A Red Centre adventure awaits at Sails in the Desert. With the towering beauty of Uluṟu serving as an unforgettable backdrop, this iconic outback oasis offers the perfect launchpad for your journey into Australia’s Indigenous roots. When you’re not admiring Uluṟu from your private balcony, sample some of the resort’s five-star facilities – cool off in the gumtree-lined pool, take a guided garden walk to learn about native bush foods or enjoy an indulgent treatment at Red Ochre Spa. When night falls, check out the region’s premier art installation – Field of Light, a truly unique outdoor exhibition.
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Feature image: Longitude 131°.
