The most swoonworthy stays in Australia

Given its size, it comes as no surprise that Australia has something for everyone: buzzy city hubs, stunning coastlines, kaleidoscopic sea life, mind-blowing natural attractions, and swathes of Outback wilderness. And wherever you choose to stay, you’ll find dwellings ready to pamper you; from luxury retreats and designer hotels to quirky boutiques, unusual wilderness lodges, and rustic eco-camps. Here’s our pick of the swoonworthy sleeps guaranteed to make your heart skip a beat.

Southern Ocean Lodge

The scene: Set atop a secluded cliff on a rugged stretch of coast overlooking Hanson Bay, the wild Southern Ocean and the pristine Kangaroo Island wilderness (Australia’s answer to the Galapagos Islands), this five-star sanctuary is nine miles from the mainland. The wildlife thrills here come fast and furious; expect to see koalas, wallabies, sea lions, seals, and kangaroos.

The sleep: Given its eco-lodge status, all of the 21 ocean-facing suites have been designed with the environment in mind. There’s plenty of sustainable materials (sandblasted limestone floors, recycled spotted gum feature walls, bespoke furnishings and artworks by local artisans) paired with modern-day comforts such as king-size beds, sunken lounges, dramatic glass walled bathrooms with Southern Spa amenities, and outdoor terraces with daybeds. There’s also sound systems with MP3 input (Smart TVs with DVD players are in selected suites only).

The stay: With a strong emphasis on relaxation, the facilities will make a lasting impression; think plunge pools, wine cellar, guided nature tours, and divine spa with steam room, chill-out lounge, and private rooms for traditional and cutting-edge treatments. There’s also excellent wining and dining options, given that the menu pulls focus on fresh, native and organic produce matched with an enviable selection of wines from South Australia’s best grape-growing regions.

More information and to book: Southern Ocean Lodge

Mayfair Hotel

The scene: Adding a touch of urban glamour to South Australia’s capital since opening in 2015, this five-star boutique hotel is housed in a 1930s heritage building at the corner of King William and Hindley Streets in Adelaide’s business district. You’ll be just steps from the cool Riverbank Precinct and close to the River Torrens, Adelaide Oval, and Adelaide Central Market.

The sleep: All of the 170 rooms and suites are spoiling and sleek; think sumptuous queen-size beds with crisp white linens, Smart TVs with digital channels and on-demand movies, media hubs, touch-screen telephones, well-stocked minibars, Nespresso machines, and a nightly turndown with chocolates. The monochrome bathrooms have Grohe rain showers, fluffy bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary L'Occitane toiletries. For added luxury, the magnificent Mayfair King Suites offer separate lounge areas, king-size beds, and more living space.

The stay: As you’d expect from a new(ish) arrival, everything is super-chic and sparkling. The wow factor is ramped up further with the basement Mayflower Restaurant & Bar - the signature eatery that serves reliably good buffet breakfasts and à la carte dinners. There’s also a gym with cardio machines and free weights, a lobby-based library for free-to-borrow books, and a newly-opened 13th-floor rooftop bar with an outdoor terrace for dreamy skyline-gazing.

More information and to book: Mayfair Hotel

Boroka Downs

The scene: Just five-minutes from Halls Gap in the heart of the Grampians, this award-winning, five-star boutique retreat is strictly for grown-ups. The surrounding area is serene and secluded; expect to find vineyards and olive groves for Insta-worthy photos, lakes for cooling off, and hike-friendly park trails for marvelling at waterfalls like the MacKenzie and Silverband Falls.

The sleep: It’s all about engaging views, spectacular sunsets, and wildlife-watching at the five standalone villas or residences - all of which are ultra-private and separated from each another by trees along a ridge line. Each has a king-size bed dressed with a pure wool duvet and cotton Sheridan linen, lounge area with seating, large circular spa, bathroom with shower, and well-equipped kitchenette. Thoughtful touches include patio BBQs, double hammocks (summer months only), and Smart TVs with Blue Ray players and Bluetooth connectivity.

The stay: Most guests tend to dine-in, making the most of the extensive cooking facilities (full stove and convection oven, microwave, crockery, cutlery, and free pickings at the hotel’s organic vegetable garden). There’s also a great wine list with cellar door prices, binoculars to help you identify the local wildlife, a selection of literature about the Grampians, Halls Gap and Victoria, and a team of helpful staff who will sort everything from bicycle rentals to restaurant reservations.

More information and to book: Boroka Downs

Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel

The scene: For a chic-as-you-like sleep in the historic town of Port Fairy, this intimate four-star boutique hotel enjoys a fabulous waterside location on the Moyne River. As locations go, it doesn’t get better; at the end of the Great Ocean Road near to the Grampians and Coonawarra wine region, and close to the giant limestone stacks collectively known as The Twelve Apostles.

The sleep: Characterised by pretty French Provencal décor, the seven elegant and uniquely-styled rooms all have air-conditioning, Wi-Fi access, comfortable seating areas, minibars, en-suite bathrooms with toiletries, and large windows to allow for plenty of natural light (some overlook the water, while others face the hotel’s lovely lavender-lined courtyard). For the ultimate splash-out, book the luxurious Courtyard Spa Room that features an open gas fire, king-size bed, bathroom with double shower, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

The stay: While there is no on-site restaurant, breakfasts are served daily in the dining room overlooking the Moyne River. Courtesy of the resident chef, you can look forward to seasonal and gourmet dishes, including caramelised banana hotcakes, tomato bruschetta with basil pesto and prosciutto, and the signature Oscars bacon and eggs. The hotel also has a shared lounge with a fireplace that’s perfect for post-sightseeing chillout or end-of-day drinks.

More information and to book: Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel

Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa

The scene: Ideal for those who fancy quaffing pinot noir, chardonnay, shiraz, and sparkling whites in the vineyard-dotted Yarra Valley, this five-star resort is just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. You’ll also be 15-minutes from Healseville, the quaint town famous for its refined restaurants, wonderful art galleries, organic markets, and interesting nature walks.

The sleep: All of the boutique-chic accommodation features flatscreen TVs with digital channels, free Wi-Fi access, tea and coffee-making facilities, minibars, comfortable queen or king-size beds dressed with high-quality linens, in-room safes, and bathrooms with hairdryers and bathrobes. For a more luxe experience, the splurge-worthy spa suites have separate living area, upgraded room amenities, and generally more space. And then, of course, there’s the drop-dead-gorgeous views across the Yarra Valley and the estate’s surrounding vineyard.

The stay: You’ll have access to a wealth of facilities, including a tennis court, volleyball net, giant chess set, fitness centre, sauna, and spa for top-to-toe pampering. There’s also the vineyard-facing Rae's Restaurant for a seasonal menu of French-influenced modern Australian cuisine - all of which is paired with Balgownie Estate wines (this place was the one of the pioneers of commercial winemaking in the Bendigo Region, first planting vines in 1969).

More information and to book: Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa

The Henry Jones Art Hotel

The scene: Housed in a former jam factory built in 1823, Australia’s first dedicated art hotel is located on the waterfront at Sullivan's Cove in Hobart - the Tasmanian capital that’s also one of the coolest southernmost hotspots. The location is perfect for art lovers; just a 10-minute walk from David Walsh’s incredible Museum of Old and New Art (famously known as MONA).

The sleep: Completely refurbished in 2018, all of the 56 handsome and high-ceilinged rooms and suites have earthy tones, statement-making artworks, original architecture, vintage styling, and modern design flourishes. While no two are alike, all come with a king-size bed, iPod docking station, flatscreen TV with digital channels and DVD player, Wi-Fi access, Nespresso machine, and great views of the harbour or the atrium’s interior. The translucent glass bathrooms have organic Tasmanian toiletries (some suites have extra-deep spa tubs).

The stay: There’s a superb selection of restaurants and bars for seasonal cuisine, artisan brews, famed single malts, crisp ciders, and high-end gins. Further thrills include kicking back with a cocktail at the IXL Long Bar, working up a sweat in the gym, and stocking up on local crafts from the on-site shop. The hotel also holds weekly art and history tours with knowledgeable curators so that guests can learn more about the Henry Jones site and those who shaped its past.

More information and to book: The Henry Jones Art Hotel

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

The scene: Set in a converted wool store built in 1888, this hip five-star waterfront boutique is a stone’s throw from Darling Harbour, minutes from the Sydney Aquarium and Madame Tussauds, and just under two miles from the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay. You’ll also have the Barangaroo’s retail and dining precinct just across the footbridge.

The sleep: There’s an industrial design theme in the 90 rooms (including two suites); think period windows, exposed brick walls, earthy colours spiced up with bright accents, playful artworks, and trendy furniture that pays homage to the building’s history. All accommodation has queen or king-size beds, huge Apple TVs, USB ports, iPads, free minibars, and in-room snacks. There’s also recycled timber desks, free Wi-Fi, and great bathrooms with walk-in showers and Biology toiletries. The loft rooms are split-level spaces with downstairs lounge areas.

The stay: Named after former wool classer Percy Ewart who made his mark (literally) by etching his name into the sandstone building, the signature restaurant and bar serves Mediterranean-style cuisine, 100-plus wines by bespoke Australian and European producers, and an excellent section of artisanal cocktail creations. The hotel offers daily happy hours, continental buffet breakfasts, and in-room dining (available between 5pm and 10pm).

More information and to book: Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

The Langham Sydney

The scene: Dazzling Sydney Harbour views are guaranteed at this shamelessly luxurious five-star hotel in the heart of The Rocks - the historic precinct famous for its cobbled laneways, cosy cafés, upscale restaurants, artisan markets, and some of Australia's oldest pubs. You’ll be just one mile from the city centre and around an hour from the stunning eastern beaches.

The sleep: To-die-for views of the iconic Sydney cityscape or the buzzy Western Harbour are assured in the 98 rooms and suites - all of which are wonderfully oversized. Expect king-size beds, pastel colour tones, rich carpets, and bespoke furnishings as well as flatscreen TVs with digital channels, Nespresso machines, free Wi-Fi, and international newspapers (some rooms have private terraces). Marble bathrooms with double basins, rain showers, separate baths, soft bathrobes, slippers, and Chuan Spa toiletries add to the opulence.

The stay: The hotel’s numerous restaurants and bars will delight foodies keen to savour seasonal dishes matched with excellent wines. There’s also a tennis court, state-of-the-art health club with cardio and strength equipment, and 20-metre indoor pool with stone columns and a star-dotted sky ceiling. Equally impressive is the Day Spa by Chuan - a lavish underground sanctuary with attentive staff and heaps of holistic treatments and therapies.

More information and to book: The Langham Sydney

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

The scene: Set in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Greater Blue Mountains region between the Gardens of Stone National Park and Wollemi National Park, this five-star playground is set on a 7,000-acre carbon-neutral conservancy. While there’s enough diversions here to keep you busy for weeks, Sydney is a two-and-a-half hour drive away should you fancy a change of scenery.

The sleep: Varying in size and layout, all of the 40 standalone private villas offer extreme comfort; think four-poster beds, private terraces, courtyard gardens, pools with decks, double-sided fireplaces, dining rooms and living areas, and skylights for nightly stargazing. Further amenities include entertainment systems, free Wi-Fi, in-villa snack bars, and bathrooms with twin vanities, separate showers and bathtubs, and Sodashi toiletries.

The stay: While the pristine wilderness commands your attention, the resort promises a wealth of things to do: tennis, pool, spa with sauna and steam room, mountain bikes, gym, DVD/CD library, guided wildlife safaris, and a selection of nature-based activities. There’s also a an impressive wine cellar, a laid-back bar, and an restaurant that pulls focus on exquisitely-prepared seasonal, local and organic produce paired with regional and international wines.

More information and to book: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Old Leura Dairy

The scene: Just a five-minute drive from the attractive and quaint Blue Mountains town of Leura, this unique collection of self-catering cottages is set in a former dairy surrounded by lovely landscaped gardens. While the peaceful location is perfect for all sorts of back-to-nature activities and attractions, the bright lights of Sydney are just a 90-minute drive away.

The sleep: Complete with a home-from-home vibe, the six self-catering lodges have all been cleverly converted using natural materials such as wood, tin, and mud brick. While individually-styled, all are kitted out with recycled and rustic décor, bespoke artworks, and comfortable king-size or twin beds. There’s also espresso machines or stove-top espresso makers, TVs with DVD players, iPod docking sound systems, free Wi-Fi, fireplaces, and well-appointed kitchenettes (some lodges have a dishwasher). Bathrooms have antique claw-footed bathtubs.

The stay: This is a self-catering stay so there is no on-site restaurant. However, organic breakfasts with breads, juices, milk, butter, jams, yoghurts, fruits and homemade muesli are available for an extra charge. Days here can be spent relaxing in the outdoor hot tub, visiting the galleries and eateries in nearby Leura, or bush-walking, canyoning and abseiling in the Blue Mountains. Alternatively, the spectacular Jenolan Caves are an hour’s drive away.

More information and to book: Old Leura Dairy

The Byron at Byron Bay

The scene: Just a 10-minute stroll from the lovely Tallow Beach and the Byron Bay Golf Course, this five-star retreat is set amongst a ravishing 45-acre subtropical rainforest on the outskirts of Byron Bay - one of Australia’s most iconic coastal towns. For those keen to seek out surfing and scuba diving sites, a complimentary hotel shuttle bus runs into town three times per day.

The sleep: Housed in freestanding buildings, the 92 contemporary-styled suites are all self-contained spaces with rainforest views. Expect sleek interiors, beds with high-quality mattresses, bathrooms with bathtubs and separate showers, private balconies or terraces, and kitchenettes with cutlery, crockery and cookware. For more upgraded facilities, the Deluxe Spa Suites in a more secluded area of the resort have deep spa baths, separate lounge and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, two enclosed balconies, and a selection of eclectic artworks and textiles.

The stay: Unique rainforest position aside, the facilities are excellent. Expect a well-sized gym, heavenly spa, infinity pool (heated in winter), sauna, tennis courts, mini library with games, bicycle hire, and free daily yoga sessions in the Lotus Garden. And things are just as impressive on the wining and dining front, given that all ingredients are locally-sourced (foodies are welcome to accompany the hotel’s chef on trips to the local farmers’ market).

More information and to book: The Byron at Byron Bay

Paperbark Camp

The scene: Grown-up glamping finds its home at this luxurious tented eco-retreat near the brilliant white sands of Jervis Bay, around three hours south of Sydney. You’ll be within easy distance of three splendid national parks (Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay National Park, and Jervis Bay Marine Park) and close to Insta-worthy bush landscapes.

The sleep: Uniquely-styled and named after a different local animal, each of the 12 solar-powered canvas tents has a king-size bed dressed with deluxe linens and mosquito nets, furnished wraparound terrace for bird-watching, outdoor bathroom with rain shower, and mesh windows to keep out any bugs. Amenities include lavish bathrobes and slippers, tea and coffee-making facilities, and hand-made organic toiletries. For extra comfort, the Deluxe and King Deluxe tents have freestanding bathtubs and a more contemporary décor theme.

The stay: Life here centres around The Gunya - a timber and iron structure housing a kitchen, reception area, and communal lounge (this is the place to go for Wi-Fi and mobile phone charging). There’s also a terrace for summer dining, an open fire for winter warming, and free-to-borrow bikes and canoes for exciting exploration (the coastal town of Huskisson is just 15-minutes away). Massages and beauty treatments are available on request.

More information and to book: Paperbark Camp

Lizard Island Resort

The scene: Just a 60-minute flight from Cairns off the coast of north Queensland, this five-star resort is located directly on the Great Barrier Reef - the world’s most bio-diverse coral reef ecosystem. Not only will you be overlooking Anchor Bay and Sunset Beach, but you’ll also be surrounded by 24 powdery-white beaches and over 1000 hectares of national park.

The sleep: Following a top-to-toe refurb after cyclone damages in 2014 and 2015, the 40 air-conditioned rooms and suites are understated but very glamorous. Expect gleaming white walls with soft grey accents, king-size beds with quality linens, hammocks and daybeds, and private balconies with ocean or garden views from every angle. Thoughtful touches include Bose sound systems with CD players, iPod connectivity, beach towels, aromatherapy oil burners, fully-stocked minibars, Nespresso machines, and bathrooms with soft bathrobes.

The stay: Aside from touring the Lizard Island Research Station to learn more about the Great Barrier Reef, days here can be spent making the most of the beach club’s paddleboards, kayaks, catamarans, motorised dinghies, and snorkelling equipment. Alternatively, enjoy glass-bottom boat trips, nature tours, and fishing trips. If you’d rather stay put, there’s tennis courts, a large pool, a luxe day spa, and an open-air restaurant with Anchor Bay as a backdrop.

More information and to book: Lizard Island Resort

Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat

The scene: Set within 230 acres of private North Queensland rainforest, this award-winning tropical hideout is a 90-minute drive from Cairns. With the Atherton Tablelands and the World Heritage Wooroonooran National Park on your doorstep, you’ll be just a short drive from Malanda and Yungaburra and only 15-minutes from the Eacham and Barrine lakes.

The sleep: Spread across the rainforest, the nine self-contained wooden chalets (known as tree-houses) all have spa baths with separate showers, bathrobes, environmentally-friendly toiletries, well-appointed kitchens, washing machines and dryers, gas BBQs, and wood-burning fireplaces (wood is supplied). You can also look forward to a king-size bed with crisp white linens, private balcony, TV with DVD player, and either mountain or rainforest views.

The stay: Although this is a self-catering stay, you can book a chef-prepared meal in the privacy of your treehouse at any time. There’s also great breakfast hampers with bacon, eggs, breads, jams, organic yoghurts, cereals, milk, and more. The retreat offers a wealth of activities, including getting up-close with Australia’s oldest and smallest kangaroo, hugging a 600-year-old tree, and rock hopping and platypus-spotting at the rainforest creek.

More information and to book: Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat

Silky Oaks Lodge

The scene: There’s no shortage of wildlife-watching opportunities at this five-star boutique lodge overlooking the Mossman River at the edge of the Daintree Rainforest (the largest on the Australian continent and the oldest in the world, beating the Amazon by 65 million years). You’ll be a 90-minute drive north from Cairns airport and just 25-minutes from Port Douglas.

The sleep: Built on hardwood stilts and topped off with a corrugated iron roof, the secluded treehouses feature a hammock, private balcony with rainforest views, contemporary or tropical-luxe décor, comfortable bed with high-quality cotton linens, tea and coffee-making facilities, and CD player (please note there is no TV or in-room Wi-Fi access so be prepared for a digital detox). The marble bathrooms have a walk-in shower, bathrobes and slippers, and free toiletries. The swankier suites offer four-poster beds, double balconies, and far more living space.

The stay: Free-of-charge riverside morning yoga classes, guided rainforest walks, and the use of kayaks, canoes, mountain bikes and snorkels make this place quite special. There’s also a fitness centre, lagoon-style swimming pool, tennis court, and blissful spa with seven treatment rooms. The lodge offers daily gourmet breakfasts, afternoon refreshments, and an ever-changing dinner menu showcasing fresh local produce and Australian wines.

More information and to book: Silky Oaks Lodge

Thala Beach Nature Reserve

The scene: Overlooking a private beach between Cairns and Port Douglas in Queensland’s north (more specifically, between two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest), this five-star eco resort is surrounded by 145 acres of rainforest. The town of Port Douglas is a 15-minute drive away (the hotel runs regular shuttles).

The sleep: Voted one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World for good reason, the standalone timber bungalows spread across the wooded headland tempt with enviable views of the sea or the bush. Each has a deck with outdoor furniture, large bed with luxe linens, timber floors, screens to keep out unwanted insects, and mod cons such as TVs, DVD players, minibars, tea and coffee-making facilities, and Wi-Fi. The Sandpiper Suite is by far the most luxurious and ideal for those wanting more space and extra privacy.

The stay: Given its location, many of the activities on offer link to the surroundings; think rainforest walks with the Kuku Yalanji people, snorkelling tours to the outer Great Barrier Reef, educational talks, and star-gazing. There’s also a private-access beach (known locally as Oak Beach), two outdoor freeform pools, an excellent spa, a casual outdoor bistro overlooking the Coral Sea, and free golf buggies to make getting around the resort much easier.

More information and to book: Thala Beach Nature Reserve

The Reef Retreat

The scene: You know you’re in for a luxurious treat at this intimate boutique retreat set amongst the romantic tropical landscape between Cairns and Port Douglas. Best of all, you’ll be just 50 metres from the idyllic sands and colonial buildings of Palm Cove - the quiet and tiny beachside village where 500-year-old melaleuca trees famously line the esplanade.

The sleep: There’s a modern-meets-tropical design theme in the 36 studio apartments, suites, villas and townhouses - all of which have kitchenettes or kitchens for self-catering. Expect earthy tones glammed up with lime green accents, stylish living areas, en-suite bathrooms, and private balconies (first floor) or terraces (ground floor) with pool or garden views. All accommodation types are kitted out with Wi-Fi, flatscreen TVs with digital channels, DVD players, iPod docking stations, bed linen, and towels (including towels for use at the pool and beach).

The stay: While it’s tempting to spend most of your time either swimming in the saltwater pool (heated to 28 degrees year-round) or bubbling away in the Jacuzzi, it’s worth taking advantage of the retreat’s free booking service for heaps of experiences available in the greater Cairns and Tropical North Queensland region. For days when you don’t fancy cooking, head to the high-end and award-winning restaurants in Palm Cove (or simply tuck into fish and chips on the beach).

More information and to book: The Reef Retreat

Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel

The scene: Adult-only stays in the fishing village turned sophisticated resort town of Port Douglas don’t get chicer than this well-presented boutique overlooking Four Mile Beach. You’ll be just 40 metres from the glistening white sands and only a minutes’ hop from the main drag’s interesting shops, upscale restaurants, and hip cafés, bars, and coffee shops.

The sleep: Overlooking the hotel’s multi-tiered heated pool with glimpses of the rainforest-covered Flagstaff Hill and Tableland mountain ranges, the suites come in all shapes and sizes. All have living areas, discreet kitchenettes, and spacious en-suite bathrooms with oversized bathtubs, walk-in showers, Appelles Apothecary toiletries, and bathrobes. King-size or twin bed configurations are available on request. There’s also free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, espresso machines, and flatscreen TVs with digital channels and DVD players.

The stay: In addition to a Jacuzzi spa, free bicycle hire, and a small library, the hotel boasts a fabulous oceanfront restaurant right on the esplanade (it’s the only licensed eatery in Port Douglas to overlook the dazzling Four Mile Beach). Here you can put your self-catering plans on hold and work your way through the spectacular breakfast, lunch and dinner menus - all of which are prepared with fresh, locally-sourced and seasonal produce.

More information and to book: Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel

Longitude 131

The scene: As one of the most iconic luxury lodges in Australia, this five-star sanctuary located at the gateway of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park offers next-level seclusion. The views of the 600-million-year-old rock that is Uluru are unrivalled: you can watch the sandstone icon change colour from salmon pink to orange to burgundy at sunrise or sunset from the end of your bed.

The sleep: There’s 16 exclusive and ultra-glamorous tented pavilions, all with floor-to-ceiling windows for mesmerising views of the Northern Territory’s geological wonder. Expect lavish king-size or twin beds dressed with organic linens, outdoor terraces with daybeds and fireplaces, well-appointed bathrooms with toiletries, original indigenous artworks, and screens to keep bugs out. You can also expect Bose speakers, iPads, espresso machines, in-room safes, Wi-Fi access, and well-stocked complimentary minibars. Please note that there are no TVs.

The stay: Although Uluru views get most of the glory, the lodge has an outdoor pool, library, and sensational restaurant and bar serving contemporary Australian cuisine paired with top-notch wines, beers, and spirits. Equally appealing is Spa Kinara, a pampering sanctuary set low in the sand dunes that offers treatments infused with native products such as Kakadu plum, quandong, desert lime, Australian yellow clay and nutrient-rich desert salts.

More information and to book: Longitude 131

Seashells Yallingup Resort

The scene: Just a three-hour drive from Perth and a short distance from the awesome surfing action at Yallingup Beach, this award-winning resort is located in the heart of Western Australia’s Margaret River region. Go a little further afield, and you’ll find yourself gazing at the rugged limestone sea cliffs and windswept granite headlands of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

The sleep: The studio spa rooms and the one or two-bedroom apartments have private balconies or decks overlooking beautiful gardens. Expect Art Deco design touches, comfy king-size beds (or twins) with luxe linens, tea and coffee-making facilities, flatscreen TV with digital channels, CD players, and iPod docking stations. The apartments are geared up for self-catering and have ample kitchen and laundry facilities as well as separate living and dining areas. All accommodation types offer free Wi-Fi and in-house movies.

The stay: Guests are welcome to use the facilities at Cave House, the heritage-listed hotel next door. These include a restaurant that opens daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (indoor and outdoor dining is available), and a bar that opens from midday until late. There’s also an enchanting 'ghost trail' path that leads from the gardens through to Yallingup Beach where you'll find grassed picnic areas, a café, and a kids’ adventure playground.

More information and to book: Seashells Yallingup Resort