Hyatt Regency Coolum, QUEENSLAND
Airing Date: Jun 28th, 2004
The Hyatt Regency Coolum, situated at the base of Mount Coolum in Queensland's Sunshine Coast, covers 150 hectares of natural woodlands and rainforests. The resort fronts the Pacific Ocean and has two kilometres of beach front.
The Hyatt Regency is well known for two things; its world class, 18 hole golf course, and the fact that it hosted CHOGM. On the golf front, it hosted the Australian PGA Golf Championship from 2002 through to 2006.
Scott Armstrong is the resident golfing expert, and he is at hand to help you out with any useful tips. A round will cost you $90.
However, if golf is not your thing and you're keeping your partner company, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. As the resort is so big, you may want to hire a bike to get yourself around.
There are many activities hidden away in pockets of bushland, such as Thai Chi classes. If you fancy a bit of relaxation time without the kids, there's Camp Hyatt, where children from the age of two to 12 can go while you find your way to the Sun Spa for a bit of self indulgence.
Not only does the Hyatt Coolum host major golfing tournaments, it's also home to the Coolum Kitefest, an annual event which happens every September. The Kitefest provides a colourful and exciting display of kites, including some of the largest in the Southern hemisphere.
The long stretch of beach is well patrolled all year round and is great for long walks and plenty of swimming. Beach fishing is also popular amongst tourists. You can hire all the equipment you need, and personal tuition is available.
Other activities range from volleyball to canoeing, orienteering, photography and even archery, but if you're feeling particularly energetic you can always take on the National Park of Mount Coolum, where you can enjoy a 360 degree view from the top of the mountain and have a picnic along the way. There is a rough 800 metre trail, so this activity is recommended for relatively fit walkers.
Accommodation at the Hyatt varies from a studio suite for two, a President Villa with two bedrooms and bathrooms, and if you really want to splash out, there's always the Ambassador's Club, a particular favourite amongst celebrities like Mick Jagger and U2.
The facts
Accommodation at the Hyatt Regency Coolum is $255 per suite per night based on two adults sharing.
Fishing equipment is available for hire at $25 per person and professional tuition is available at $38.50 per person for an hour. The minimum age is 12 years old.
Hyatt Regency Coolum
Tel: 1800 266 586
Prices correct at 28/06/04
