How to get there: Fly directly into Hamilton Island Airport from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Upon arrival, board a transfer to the resort.

Main activities: Dive into the Great Barrier Reef with snorkelling or diving excursions. Enjoy helicopter flights over Heart Reef, indulge in spa treatments at Spa qualia, or participate in gourmet experiences like “Talk and Taste” sessions.

Why qualia? An adults-only retreat offering 60 luxurious pavilions with panoramic views. Guests have access to private golf buggies, two infinity pools and fine dining at Long Pavilion and Pebble Beach restaurants.

How to get there: Approximately 80 minutes’ drive from Cairns airport or 20 minutes from Port Douglas. Private transfers and scenic helicopter flights are available.

Main activities: Be sure to take advantage of complimentary signature evening drinks hour with canapés as part of its standard inclusions, often enjoyed at the Jungle Perch bar. Explore the Daintree Rainforest with guided walks, river snorkelling and cultural tours with the Kuku Yalanji people. Other complimentary activities include kayaking and swimming in the crystal-clear freshwater billabong and calming yoga classes in the pavilion overlooking the Mossman River.

Why Silky Oaks Lodge? Nestled in 32 hectares of pristine rainforest, the lodge offers treehouse-style accommodations & an open-air restaurant serving local produce, garnering praise for its nature-centric atmosphere and rustic charm.

How to get there: Arrive via a short, scenic flight from Cairns, which is part of the experience, before touching down on a private airstrip.

Main activities: A dream for marine lovers, Lizard Island guests can snorkel straight off the beach to explore coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, or head out to iconic dive sites like the Cod Hole. Kayaking, paddleboarding and private beach picnics are all on offer. Hikers will love the trail to Cook’s Look, the island’s highest point.

Why Lizard Island? Spend quality time on this very private, very luxury resort. With only 40 rooms, suites & villas, all with direct beach access and great views, guests are sure to enjoy their stay in this fantastic Queensland corner of paradise. Gourmet dining, luxe spa and an incredible reef just steps away give Lizard Island Resort its pure barefoot luxury & unique vibe.

How to get there: The lodge is easily reachable by road on a two hour drive from Brisbane, with stunning views over the rolling valleys.

Main activities: Outdoor activities are king here. Perhaps go hiking or e-biking through the private nature reserve, do a 4WD wildlife safari or simply unwind with stargazing sessions. The lodge also runs yoga sessions and offers in-room spa treatments. A foodie favourite, the daily degustation menu at The Peak restaurant is a must.

Why Spicers Peak Lodge? Sitting at 1,100 meters above sea level, it is the highest non-alpine lodge in the country. The remote mountaintop setting means wide-open skies, sweeping views and complete tranquillity. With only ten suites and two private lodges, it is an excellent example of boutique luxury, ideal for an elevated nature escape.

How to get there: Fly into Townsville and hop on a 30-minute helicopter transfer over the reef. It’s remote: no cars and no roads which is ideal for someone looking to escape the busy city life.

Main activities: Orpheus Island Lodge is all about reef activities – snorkelling straight off the pier, scuba diving or exploring hidden coves. Paddleboarding, kayaking and marine experiences are also on offer. On land, there’s rainforest hiking or for something more laid back, the spa is always a good idea.

Why Orpheus Island Lodge? Hosting up to 28 guests at a time, the lodge has a very private feel, polished but laidback, with tropical villas right on the water. A plus for the environmentally conscious, it is carbon-neutral and has an organic vegetable garden, solar power, and reef research partnerships. Coupled with exceptional dining and a personalised service, Orpheus Island Lodge makes one of Australia's most exclusive island stays.

How to get there: Located approx. 100 miles from Cairns, a 35 minute scenic helicopter flight offering sweeping aerial views of the Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands and the rugged terrain surrounding Mount Mulligan.

Main activities: There is a plethora of curated Outback experiences on offer. Guests can explore the historic Mount Mulligan coal mine and the abandoned township, embark on ATV adventures, go barramundi fishing or enjoy guided nature walks. The lodge also offers scenic helicopter flights, wildlife spotting and experience a working cattle station.

Why Mount Mulligan Lodge? The lodge accommodates up to 20 guests across 10 suites, each with a private deck outdoor bath and an electric buggy for exploring the surrounds. Dining showcases locally sourced, seasonal produce, with menus tailored to individual tastes. The lodge’s connection to the land’s Indigenous heritage adds further depth to the outback experience.