We all want to escape to paradise from time to time, especially if it comes with white sand, clear blue water and palm-fringed beaches. To experience two of Australia's best luxury resorts, escape to Queensland's tropical north, where you can explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef in style.
Orpheus Island
Ever wanted to live like a movie star? Tiny Orpheus Island, just a 30-minute seaplane flight from Townsville, has been a favourite of Hollywood jetsetters since the 1930s because of its boutique island feel.
Follow in the footsteps of stars like Vivian Leigh and Phil Collins by staying in one of the beachfront rooms at the island's stylish and recently renovated resort. Guest numbers are limited - there are only 21 rooms and almost as many staff members as there are guests - so pampering is a given.
But if the inevitable five-star price tag seems beyond your reach, take heart. Camping is also permitted on the island. All you need is a permit, and there are campgrounds with picnic tables, toilets and shelter sheds. Three areas also have gas barbecues.
Whatever your budget, you can delight in both the national parks and the marine life here. In 1960, the entire island of 1,368 hectares was declared a National Park and the surrounding waters have since been declared part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Not surprisingly, the diving and snorkelling here is amazing - there are more than 1,000 species of fish and 400 species of coral.
For an unforgettable encounter, snorkel with giant clams at the giant clam colony, just 10 minutes by boat from the resort. The colony has the largest grouping of giant clams in the Southern Hemisphere, so it's a rare opportunity. Resplendent in electric blues, greens and yellows, these incredible creatures can grow up to 1.3metres in length and weigh hundreds of kilograms.
Lizard Island
If your ideal holiday includes exploring magical underwater worlds, it's hard to beat the abundant marine life and exquisite isolation of Lizard Island.
As the furthest north of the Barrier Reef resort islands, Lizard Island enjoys a reputation for having some of the world's best diving, especially around the celebrated 'Cod Hole'. Lizard Island Resort can arrange diving trips and there are night dives and diving tuition available for guests.
But it's a snorkeller's delight too: you'll see more than 400 kinds of coral and swim with 1500 species of fish among the islands fringing coral reefs, ribbon reefs and lagoon reefs.
With around 1,000 hectares of national park and 24 unspoilt beaches, it's not surprising that one of Australia's premier resorts is located on the island. The luxurious award-winning, bungalow-style accommodation caters for a minimum of 80 guests, and there are four different grades of accommodation - all elegantly understated - to choose from. At the resort you'll find every possible activity to satisfy the most relaxed or adventurous visitor.
While you're at the resort, take advantage of the island's many walking trails to see the native flora and fauna. And find yourself a beach. With so many sandy beaches and so few guests, the unspoken rule is: if people are already on the beach when you arrive, find yourself another one. If that sounds too hard, you can always use the complimentary dinghies, kayaks or any other water vessels available. What could be simpler?
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