Be in awe of Orpheus IslandQueensland, Australia
Orpheus Island is one of those rare northern Queensland locations where you'll find a mix of history, culture and luxury. It’s 80 kilometres northwest of Townsville and a 10-minute chopper ride (or 20-minute boat trip) from Palm Island.
There is very little tourism in these parts. The island itself is a national park and sits within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – on it is a single resort, Orpheus Island Lodge, which caters to just 28 guests.
There’s plenty to keep you occupied during sunlight hours. Snorkel an area inhabited by hundreds of giant clams, take a sunset cruise and watch for manta rays and humpback whales, and explore Yanks Jetty and pretty pockets of secluded beach, where guests picnic and goannas are said to stroll. Then swap your flippers for flopping and perfect the art of dozing in a hammock, fruity cocktail in hand.
At night, you’ll enjoy feasts of oysters baked in sesame crust, seared Harvey Bay scallops, grilled crayfish, snapper ravioli, and kangaroo fillet with smoked potato puree. And, if you’ve been lucky enough to catch a fish during the day, just take it to the chefs who’ll prepare it for the plate.
The seclusion of Orpheus has attracted the likes of Elton John, Vivien Leigh and Mickey Rooney. Will you be next?
From US$930 a night for two, with specials on offer such as five nights for the price of four.
Orpheus Island Lodge
orpheus.com.au