9 of the top luxury stays in Australia to book ASAP

From all-new openings to historic stays and exclusive island hideaways, luxury in Australia means immersive experiences in extraordinary locations – with a few creature comforts to boot.

1. Bells at Killcare, NSW

Bells at Killcare has been a special-occasion place since it opened on NSW’s Bouddi Peninsula in 2007. Guests have traditionally checked into its coastal-chic cottages and villas, which exude a Hamptons aesthetic with their distinctive blue-and-white-striped interior palette. They’ve also dined at its restaurant, The Wild Flower Bar & Dining. Indulged in a treatment at Bells Day Spa. Or picked up some fresh-baked goods from the onsite bakery. But the addition of The Lodges at Bells at Killcare has upped the ante further. The design of the four luxurious tri-level lodges departs from the rest of the property’s aesthetic and tunes into the local environment instead, with sleek bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens and the pièce de resistance, a Sunset Deck on the top level.

a bathroom with a private tub at The Lodges at Bells at Killcare — Inside one of the stylish bathrooms. (Image: Anson Smart)

2. Pretty Beach House, NSW

On the surface, a beachside escape seems best reserved for the summer months, but Pretty Beach House manages to be an all-year-round retreat. The guesthouse, part of the exclusive Luxury Lodges of Australia portfolio, is tucked into the treetops of the Bouddi Peninsula on the NSW Central Coast. From the warm welcome on the deck to the casual chats we have with the chef as he prepares dinner, this highly personalised service sees owners Karina and Brian Barry succeed where others fail. Book a stay at The Retreat, a two-storey haven with a wraparound deck, an upstairs living area, two bathrooms, adjustable king-size bed with inbuilt massage, and plunge pool for the ultimate luxurious escape.

the main guest loungeof Pretty Beach House — The main guest lounge of Pretty Beach House. (Image: Anson Smart)

3. Island House, Lord Howe Island NSW

Fringed by evergreen Kentia palms and set under the guardianship of Mt Gower and Mt Lidgbird, Lord Howe Island is a forested arcadia rising from coral reefs. Just a two-hour flight from Sydney, it’s impossible not to fall into absolute relaxation here. Do so at the eco-luxe Island House with its beautifully considered North and South abodes built consciously from hardwood and copper. Sleeping eight guests in the art-festooned, oak-lined dwellings, guests will relish chef-prepared meals and unimpeded privacy.

evergreen Kentia palms at Lord Howe Island — Set yourself to Lord Howe Island time. (Image: Anson Smart)

the interior of Island House, Lord Howe Island — The eco-luxe Island House is built from hardwood and copper. (Image: Anson Smart)

4. Arkaba Homestead, SA

You’ll find historic Arkaba Homestead folded into the dusty-green bush on the verge of South Australia’s Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. The 1850s-era, five-guestroom homestead blends into the serenity of its rocky surrounds and offers a pause in luxury on the final night of the three-day Arkaba Walk into Wilpena Pound. But you needn’t do the full walk to stay at this all-inclusive former frontier estate that offers twice-daily safari experiences for all guests.

the Arkaba Homestead, SA — Experience wild luxury at Arkaba.

5. Saffire Freycinet, Tas

a suite with a sea view, On Board Expeditions cruises on Tasmania — Sleep in luxury with scenic sea views onboard.

Aspirations of explorative adventure come cocooned in luxury with a new collaboration between Tasmania’s Saffire Freycinet and On Board Expeditions cruises . The six-night Coast-to-Coast discovery for 12 guests sees would-be wanderers deposited by seaplane into the remote south-west corner of Tassie’s extraordinary wilderness. There, they board a luxury cruise for three nights, before being whisked back to the east coast to take in the heart-lifting beauty of The Hazards from Saffire Freycinet’s beautifully crafted comforts.

a look inside Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania — Saffire Freycinet is a serene space filled with luxurious creature comforts.

6. The Lake House, Daylesford, Vic

A little over 40 years ago, the late Allan Wolf-Tasker was tasked to quite literally build his wife’s dream in Victoria’s Daylesford. The owner of the dream was celebrated chef Alla Wolf-Tasker and since the realisation of the pioneering Lake House , the luxury lodge has earned 76-plus chefs’ hats thanks to Wolf-Tasker’s beautifully seasonal and artistic fare. The rambling grounds meander to a gentle lake, the studios are an expression of modern country elegance and the spa is full of luxurious rituals and treatments.

the dining at legendary Lake House, Daylesford, Victoria — Stay and spa at legendary Lake House.

7. Two of Hamilton Island’s luxe stays, Qld

Encircled by the Great Barrier Reef on Hamilton Island, qualia is compelling enough, but the luxe Whitsundays resort that perfected the laid-back style of Australian hospitality also drops jaws with its elegant suites, curated dining and soft-mauve sunsets. And now there’s a persuasive reason to unpeel yourself from the sun lounger, with the resort’s Cultural Island Discovery experience to Ngaro Country . Join Robbie Congoo as he reveals Indigenous heritage through explorations of cave paintings, flora and fauna and storytelling. Elsewhere on the island, Hamilton’s newest luxury hotel The Sundays has opened, a fresh boutique offering designed with families in mind.

Check into Hamilton’s newest luxury hotel, The Sundays. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

8. The Mondrian Gold Coast, Qld

The gilding of the Gold Coast continues as the city’s luxe inventory grows with the opening of the shiny-new Mondrian this June. Positioned for ample saturation of the Pacific’s blue hues, this 208-key luxury hotel is achingly of-the-minute, with sweeping modern design that celebrates the Gold Coast’s manicured aesthetic. Contributing to the buzz of hip Burleigh Heads, the Mondrian welcomes with a pool bar, all-day Italian diner, seafood restaurant and bio-wellness spa.

the sunrise lounge at Mondrian Gold Coast — The all-new Mondrian Gold Coast. (Image: Justin Nicholas)

9. Luxe stays come in threes in The Kimberley, WA

the El QuestroHomestead atop Chamberlain Gorge — El Questro Homestead is beautifully set atop Chamberlain Gorge.

A landscape of high contrast, Western Australia’s Kimberley region pins high on the inspiration board. From rough-hewn cliffs and quartzite waters to remote stations of parched beauty, the otherworldly topography is thoroughly bewitching on a luxury bush stay at Berkeley River Lodge, floating pontoon Jetwave Pearl and El Questro Homestead . The latter of which ensures surfaces are thoroughly scratched on a two-hour tour with a Traditional Owner, who guides you through the deep reverence local Ngarinyin people have for Country.

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

9 of the top luxury stays in Australia to escape to