Natural wonders abound, wide open spaces are there for the taking, the laidback lifestyle reigns supreme, and mates – old and new – are just around the corner. But Australia is well acquainted with life’s big luxuries too.

By Kate Symons

Luxury Lodges of Australia is a case in point; a carefully selected collection of acclaimed accommodations scattered across the country and ready to elevate any journey Down Under. Positioned in Australia’s most remarkable landscapes – think the heart of the outback, reef-fringed islands, ancient rainforests, world-famous coastline – each luxury lodge offers an unforgettable experience. Here is just a taste of the award-winning catalog.

Qualia

An extraordinary mosaic of coral and marine life, The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. And at Qualia (pronounced kwah-lee-ah), guests have a front-row seat. The resort utopia sits on the secluded northernmost tip of Hamilton Island, a sun-drenched paradise that happens to be surrounded by the underwater world of Australia’s famous reef. The 60 private pavilions at qualia are the ideal launchpad for all manner of extraordinary experiences, from snorkeling and diving in the impossibly blue waters, to scenic reef flights and dreamy sailing journeys.

Qualia sits on the secluded northernmost tip of Hamilton Island.

Witness jaw-dropping natural splendor at Sal Salis.

Sal Salis

Introducing glamping at its absolute finest. Sal Salis, located on Western Australia’s Coral Coast, puts guests in the thick of the country’s jaw-dropping natural splendor.

Tucked among the dunes just a few feet from the shore and overlooking Ningaloo Reef, Sal Salis’s 15 luxury tents will satisfy nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Swim with whale sharks and humpback whales in the glorious Ningaloo Reef; meet the resident red kangaroos, wallaroos (smaller than a kangaroo; bigger than a wallaby), echidnas and emus; and immerse yourself in the restorative powers of the wild.

True North

Less lodge and more luxury cruising, True North is one of Australia’s most revered tourism experiences. Exploring some of the country’s most remote and hard-to-access coastal regions, luxury on a True North adventure cruise happens on and off board.

A shallow draft means True North’s purpose-built fleet can go where other ships can’t, giving passengers access to some extraordinary sights, but if the ship can’t take you one of the six adventure boats or the ship’s helicopter will get you there. The brand’s flagship product is its Kimberley cruises on Australia’s North-West Coast, which take in the almighty gorges, majestic waterfalls, remote islands and craggy coastline of this awe-inspiring ancient region.

Saffire Freycinet

Prepare to be spellbound. Saffire Freycinet is a true gem, showcasing the raw beauty of Tasmania’s east coast. Overlooking three natural icons – the Hazards Mountains, Freycinet Peninsula and Great Oyster Bay – the luxe lodge provides a very comfortable base to explore some of Australia’s most celebrated landscapes. Just 20 private suites are available, offering guests exclusive access to the resort’s luxurious facilities as well as individually tailored experiences and service. Culinary delights, including innovative Palate restaurant and the famous marine oyster farm experience, are all a part of the Saffire offering.

Saffire Freycinet is a true gem.

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

The World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains is pure bush bliss, and ultra-luxurious Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, located just two and a half hours from Sydney, puts the area in the well-deserved spotlight. Set on 7000 acres of conservation and wildlife reserve, the carbon-neutral resort combines its quintessentially Australian surroundings with trademark Australian hospitality. Each villa boasts its own indoor swimming pool, fireplace and private veranda complete with sweeping valley views, while a range of activities – including wildlife safaris, nature walks, and horse riding – will take you deeper into this epic environment. Brag-worthy dining and spa experiences also await.

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley shines the spotlight on the Greater Blue Mountains.

Silky Oaks Lodge

Newly reopened after a multimillion dollar refurbishment, Silky Oaks Lodge is once again the last word in tropical eco escapes. Engulfed by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest, this Tropical North Queensland retreat features 40 luxury treehouses which cosset guests in true style, with contemporary furnishings and views across the rainforest or the Mossman River. While in residence you can choose from a roster of singular experiences, from guided rainforest walks to exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef – or alternatively, you can just be still amongst the lush, green landscape and do nothing at all.

Mt Mulligan Lodge

The latest addition to the Luxury Lodges roster, Mt Mulligan Lodge, a wildly scenic 35-minute helicopter flight from Cairns, sits majestically at the heart of a sprawling 69,000-acre working outback cattle station. The lodge (where the daily changing menu showcases the best locally sourced, caught and grown produce) and accommodation pavilions, each of which looks out to the stunning form of Mt Mulligan, cater to a super exclusive 16 guests. Fill your time with everything from paddle boarding (and platypus spotting) to stargazing to taking part in an actual cattle muster.

Bask in the stunning views of Mt Mulligan.