Rock, Rainforest & Reef

Rock, Rainforest & Reef - 9 nights

There's nothing like Australia for sheer diversity of experiential luxury travel destinations... the breathtaking horizons of the desert, the tranquil sounds of tropical rainforest, the unforgettable coast, reefs and islands. Relax into this itinerary and enjoy a sense of timelessness, and the chance to discover our land, our people, and yourself.

Days 1-4: AYERS ROCK (ULURU), NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

The dual World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park stretches over 311,000 acres and is Australia’s most famous natural landscape and arguably a journey to Australia’s spiritual and geographic heart. Facing majestic Uluru (Ayers Rock), Longitude 131° offers a uniquely personal experience of this Australian icon from 15 luxury tents (canopied suites) with unrivaled private views of the changing colors of Uluru as the sun rises and sets.

A selection of must do’s:

* Uluru Sunrise Guided Base Walk – Experience the remarkable changing colours of the entire desert landscape and the spectacular sight of Uluru and Kata Tjuta at dawn.
* Table 131° – Dine under the stars and discover the wonders of the southern night sky. As you arrive to your dinner setting, be greeted by the deep rhythms of the didgeridoo while Aboriginal performers welcome you with a traditional dance.
* Sunset Camel Ride – Explore the great Central Australia desert at a slow and relaxed pace, accompanied by an expert guide pointing out wildlife and plant life, and sharing colourful anecdotes about life in this remarkable region.
* Discover the massive domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) with a guided tour of Walpa Gorge.

Days 4-7:  THE DAINTREE, QUEENSLAND (3 NIGHTS)

Silky Oaks Lodge offers an extraordinary experience of Tropical North Queensland where Australia’s celebrated Daintree Rainforest meets the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Luxury, treehouse-style suites, the acclaimed Treehouse Restaurant and the Healing Waters Spa complement an unforgettable wilderness experience.

A selection of must do’s:

* Walk with a local guide from Walkabout Cultural Adventures through Kuku Yalanji country among ancient rainforest and discover the culture and traditions of the Daintree’s indigenous custodians.

* Accessed via the nearby town of Port Douglas, enjoy an array of experiences exploring the Great Barrier Reef, from cruising aboard a luxury catamaran to snorkelling and diving among the kaleidoscopic colour of fish and coral.

* Relax into the tranquil sanctuary of the Healing Waters Spa. Treatments draw inspiration from nature’s beauty ingredients and use the healing properties of pure plant botanicals to nurture body and soul.
 

Days 7-10:  GREAT BARRIER REEF, QUEENSLAND (3 NIGHTS)

The Great Barrier Reef stretches some 1200km along the tropical north Queensland coast and is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and a world heritage listed, natural inspiration. It is larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on earth visible from space. Lizard Island is a beautiful, natural, remote island retreat and the northern-most Great Barrier Reef resort. It offers 24 white powdery sand beaches, five star cuisine, indulgent spa treatments and is an outstanding dive and snorkel destination.

A selection of must do’s:

* Sensational snorkeling and diving opportunities. Dive the famous Cod Hole or snorkel straight from the beach to experience magical coral gardens, a giant clam garden and a colourful array of tropical fish.
* Take a helicopter tour for a birds-eye-view of the Great Barrier Reef. This guided aerial experience provides a powerful insight to this World Heritage wonder.
* Enjoy a day fishing out on the surrounding reefs. Expect to hook anything from Spanish Mackerel to Tuna, Coral Trout or Red Emperor, with the added bonus of having the chefs prepare and cook your catch.

* A Motorized Dinghy will allow you to access Lizard’s secluded beaches all around the island. Ask the team to pack you a picnic hamper so you can spend hours exploring, snorkeling and soaking up the remote and romantic island surrounds. You may well be the only people on the beach the entire day.
Day 10: Head for home or onward travels.