from snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef to exploring sun-kissed Brisbane, its surrounding national parks and the glittering Gold Coast on a family vacation, a perfect honeymoon on the postcard perfect beaches of the Whitsundays, or heading up to tropical north Queensland, where the rainforest meets the reef.
The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most incredible experiences Australia has to offer. Stretching 2,000km along the coast of Queensland, it is home to over 1,000 islands and kaleidoscopic marine life, providing some of the best snorkelling and diving on the planet. Make the most of it by staying on one of the islands, and relaxing in the spa after a day on the reef.
Brisbane
Brisbane is the gateway to southern Queensland, and, with warm temperatures year round, it makes an ideal starting point for your luxury vacation, and we especially recommend it for family vacations. Make the most of the delicious foodie precincts, and hike or bike along the river, or head out in the water in a kayak.
West of Brisbane, the Scenic Rim is home to eight national parks, showcasing spectacular peaks, stunning waterfalls and ancient hidden valleys. The iconic Gold Coast to the south is best known for the glitzy Surfers Paradise, glamorous hotels and endless stretches of beach, whilst the Sunshine Coast to the north is more genteel, with a UNESCO World Heritage-listed hinterland of beautiful national parks and rainforests, as well as pretty wineries and boutique accommodation. From here you can take a 4WD safari to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, where the rainforest grows on pristine white sand, dotted with freshwater lakes.
Discover spa hideaways, rainforest retreats and boutique hotels, or experience life on a working cattle station alongside the comforts of a luxury lodge.
The Whitsundays
Perfect for a quintessential Australian honeymoon as well as family adventures, the 74 islands of the Whitsundays are amongst the most beautiful in the world, with the idyllic Whitehaven Beach regularly voted one of the world’s best beaches. There are a handful of equally beautiful and luxurious resorts offering the ultimate in pampering - and speaking of pampering, why not charter a yacht? This sheltered area is fantastic for sailing, and you can also go snorkelling and diving, and on land, enjoy quad biking and wildlife spotting.
Tropical North Queensland
Cairns is your starting point for a luxury vacation or self-drive adventure in northern Queensland. Walk along the attractive esplanade, swim in a saltwater lagoon, and feast on fresh seafood, and you can also visit the Great Barrier Reef from here. Around Cairns, the family will love a ride on the scenic Kuranda railway, while the Atherton Tablelands offer a thriving foodie scene as well as stunning waterfalls and lakes.
Heading north, Palm Cove has a tropical village feel and a lovely beach, and from the glitzy Port Douglas you’ll reach the waterfalls and glassy pools of Mossman Gorge, where you can take a guided Dreamtime walk. The spectacular Daintree Rainforest offers more insight into indigenous culture as well as crocodile encounters, while Cape Tribulation is where the ancient rainforest literally meets the reef, and where you’ll find deserted, beautiful beaches and a river teeming with wildlife.
