Blog - Page 15 of 15 - Bespoke vacations

Australian walking tours

Posted on April 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Walking tours for Mind, Body & Soul

More and more travellers are asking for active options and Australia boasts a great collection of walking tours. Whilst the benefits to the body are obvious, it is the benefits to the mind and soul that are the real balm to a busy life.

The mind benefits twofold, firstly there is the joy of an escape from technology & everyday interruption. More subtly however there is the pleasure of learning and challenging your own perceptions as knowledgeable guides inspire thoughts and discussion of regional history, geology, flora & fauna, conservation and the world around us.

Johanna Beach walkers - Great Ocean Road — Johanna Beach walkers – Great Ocean Road

For the soul, well it’s the freedom! A few days walking is an opportunity to slow the pace of life, to stop and smell the roses (or in this case the melaleucas), to savour a morning cup of coffee watching the light play on blazing ramparts or the deepest blue ocean, to fall asleep under the Milky Way ….

Outback luxury dining on the Arkaba Walk, Flinders Ranges, South Australia

Ranging from three to five nights, guided walks are available in Tasmania, Victoria, Queensland, and Western & South Australia. Costs range from $500 to $950 per person per night and accommodation varies from huts to tents, homesteads and lodges. Delicious meals are included and are often served with good local wine. Knowledgeable guides lead the walks and it is worth noting that for most of them, it is not just a part-time gig, they do this because they love it … guiding is their career.

Walking in the blue gum forests - the Arkaba walk, Flinders Ranges South Australia — Walking in the blue gum forests – the Arkaba walk, Flinders Ranges South Australia

The collective website Great Walks of Australia is a good place to begin your research but to understand the nuances of each, have a chat with one of the Alquemists. For example one beach walk is all soft sand and so much tougher than another beach walk; which walk is best for wildlife spotting; which is best in a particular month … that sort of thing, after all we’re the experts.

A well-earned rest at Haunted Bay on Maria Island

Australia really is the ideal place for walking tours – the subtleties of the Australian bush are best discovered on foot, the sights, the smells and the beautiful light. Additionally most Walks report that about 80% of their travellers are Australian, and for international travellers this presents a great opportunity to spend quality time and make real friendships with like-minded locals.

View over the majestic Flinders Ranges, Arkaba Station, South Australia

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The Kimberley

Posted on April 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

The Wild North West (The Kimberley)

The Kimberley is a vast region that is for the most part totally uninhabited. Occupying the north west of Australia it is really only accessible during our winter months from April through to October. The big draw cards are the spectacular coastline, rugged outback wilderness, and the extraordinary assemblage of wildlife. The challenge is always finding a way to explore and experience all three. This is a remarkable part of Australia, and an incredibly unique destination. Below is a crash course on some key regional highlights.

Private yacht charter in Western Australia

Broome

This is purely a gateway port to start a journey in the Kimberley. The town itself can be covered in an afternoon or one night so not really much need to stay longer than one night – but could do two if you wanted.

Kimberley Coast – Expedition Cruising

Visit where the big ships can't go on the True North - Kimberley Wilderness Cruise — Visit where the big ships can’t go on the True North – Kimberley Wilderness Cruise

Daily activities can include scenic walks, helicopter flights, fishing, snorkelling, cultural visits, picnics, flora, bird and wildlife watching, diving, exploring and much more… Multiple expedition vessels or ‘tenders’ take guests in small groups to experience the wilderness ‘up close’ and, the luxury of having numerous tenders means that everyone onboard has greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want”.

Most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter opening up a whole range of options from scenic flights and heli-picnics to overnight camping adventures. Discover virtually unseen and untouched parts of The Kimberley.

Beach Picnic on the True-North - a Kimberley Wilderness Cruise — Beach Picnic on the True-North – a Kimberley Wilderness Cruise

Kimberley Coast – Air Safari

Out of Broome a great way of seeing the Buccaneer Archipelago (one of the most spectacular sections of the Kimberley Coast) is by helicopter or light aircraft. You can fly over this stretch of coast for around three hours and if using a heli could include a stop for lunch at the horizontal waterfalls. The main points of interest include a stop at Cygnet Bay, a working pearl farm, and at the Horizontal waterfalls. True North also covers the same stretch of coast, however doing it by air is a different experience all together, not to mention the time difference. You would then fly down into Mornington Wilderness Sanctuary.

Sunrise at Raft Point by helicopter with True North - Kimberley Wilderness Cruise — Sunrise at Raft Point by helicopter with True North – Kimberley Wilderness Cruise

Kimberley Coast – Kimberley Coastal Camp

‘Crushed coral rustic luxury’ is the best way to describe this property. Located along an impressive stretch of the Kimberly Coast this rustic camp is a great experience with good aboriginal art (including Bradshaw and Wandjina Art), great fishing and beautiful coastal scenery. Hugely popular with all our past travellers due to the uniqueness and personalisation of experience. This really isn’t offered anywhere else in the region – hands on experiences out exploring with your guides. Accommodation is open air ‘shacks’ with bare sand/coral floors and open air ‘windows’ – all looking out onto the water. Small, intimate, and very unique.

Kimberley Outback – El Questro Homestead

Baobab dining at El Questro Homestead in The Kimberley

This is a member of Luxury Lodges of Australia, and is by far the most comfortable outback experience in this part of the country. The station has various accommodation options, however the homestead is the only luxurious option. It is a few hours’ drive, or a short heli flight from Kununurra. There are a range of on-site activities included in a stay here, as is all your food and beverages.

Kimberley Inland – Mornington Downs Wilderness Sanctuary

A very authentic side to this region. Mornington Downs has good African style safari tents, but there is more specific focus on the wildlife conservation work here. This is run by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy who are doing some impressive work in this region, and will show you a very interesting (and to many unknown) side to the conservation battle in Australia. Mornington is the one place in Northern Australia that has managed to reverse the declining mammal populations and the Australian Wildlife Conservancy is the leading private conservation group in the country. This is an opportunity to experience some of the Kimberley’s wildlife, and is usually a very rewarding visit.

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Pretty Beach House

Posted on April 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Oooo so Pretty!

It is such a joy to experience properties that make you go ‘WOW!’… and Pretty Beach House is one of them.

The Alquemie team recently visited Pretty Beach House, a 90 minute drive north of Sydney that feels worlds away. This exclusive four room luxury lodge represents so much of what we love about Australia. While its name comes from the suburb that it is located in, the property is actually in the middle of Australian bushland. Immediately you feel connected to the surrounding environment: the smell, the sounds, the view are all incredibly tranquil.

Treetops Bedroom at Pretty Beach House on the Bouddi Peninsula, New South Wales

Then you eat… and oh my do you eat… with a highly regarded chef behind it all guests enjoy quality Australian produce prepared perfectly. Meals are served in the dining room of the main house, with an open kitchen allowing guests to learn about what they are eating from the chef. Want to get closer to the action? Then you are welcome to dine right at the kitchen bench… the choice is all yours!

Gorgeous Angophras tree at Pretty Beach House on the Bouddi Peninsula, New South Wales

Filled to the brim it’s time to retire to your room or the living area for a bit of relaxation – a good book, a luscious bath, or perhaps a dip in the main pool or your own private plunge pool (with the exception of one room).

For those more active you could opt for one of the various bush walks, and you can easily head down to some of the nearby beaches or local towns. Being such a small property the choice is all yours, and the team go out of their way personalising your stay. In saying that with a property this stunning no one could blame you for staying put and making the most of it!

Bayview Suite at Pretty Beach House on the Bouddi Peninsula, New South Wales

Rooms are generously sized, and each has its own character. The design is luxurious without being over the top, and the collection of artwork by some of the Australia’s most famous artists is really impressive. All very much in keeping with the surrounds.
Just when you think things can’t get much better you are called for a traditional Aboriginal welcome ceremony. This intimate and interactive experience is extremely interesting, and you walk away with a well rounded perspective on Australia’s indigenous culture. A very touching and personal story.

It is not simply the individual elements that stand out here, but rather Pretty Beach House is the whole package!

An Elder - part of an Aboriginal cultural experience near Pretty Beach House, Bouddi Peninsula — An Elder – part of an Aboriginal Welcome to Country Ceremony near Pretty Beach House, Bouddi Peninsula

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COMO The Treasury Perth

Posted on April 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

COMO comes to Perth

We seem to be having a run of exciting hotel updates recently, one of which is the announcement of COMO Hotels and Resorts opening their first property in Australia. COMO The Treasury Perth is set to transform the hotel landscape in Western Australia. The COMO brand is well known in destinations around the world for its refined style, outstanding service, and signature COMO Shambhala spa.

Located in the the heart of Perth’s urban landscape the landmark Treasury Building has been transformed into the city’s most luxurious hotel. Designed by renowned Kerry Hill Architects the hotel will have just 48 rooms and suites across three connected historic buildings. The paired back design is extremely chic, and incorporates various elements of the original buildings.

We are very excited to discover the new restaurants and bars that are also opening on this site – with some big names rumoured to be making an appearance. Perth is a wonderful gateway for guests looking to explore the Margaret River wine region, or transiting on their way to other parts of the country such as the remote Kimberley region in the north west, or the stunning Ningaloo Reef.
Opening mid October 2016 we can’t wait to welcome COMO to Perth!

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Heli Tours of North Queensland

Posted on March 5, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Explore North Queensland by air and discover places that many don’t get to see on one of our signature Heli Tours of North Queensland. Each guest is provided with a headset, enabling easy communication between themselves and the pilot. The pilot and guide know this region well and will share stories on the major landmarks throughout the journey.

The fleet can accommodate up to nine passengers on a variety of helicopters:

Robinson R44
Bell 206 Jetranger
Bell 206 Longranger
Bell 407
Bell 205
AS350 (Squirrel)

3 pax
4 pax
6 pax
6 pax
9 pax
6 pax

Below are some suggested day tours however each can be tailored based on the interests of each guest.

Torres Strait Islands private heli tours

Dugong - Image credit: National Geographic — Dugong – Image credit: National Geographic

The Torres Strait Islands are a group of over 270 low lying islands located between the tip of continental Australia (Cape York) and Papua New Guinea. Seldom visited by mainstream tourists, the relatively untouched region is rich in natural, historical and cultural beauty with a unique Melanesian indigenous population. The islands’ clear tropical waters have diverse marine ecosystems with dugongs, saltwater crocodiles and many species of turtles seen amongst the colourful reefs. Activities include fishing, swimming, diving, viewing or buying fabulous indigenous artworks, visiting local markets and seeing original colonial architecture. Highlights include: Great Barrier Reef, Prince of Wales Island, Thursday Island, WW11 remnants and Horn Island. These private day tours depart from Horn Island.

World War II history flight: Fly over Prince of Wales Island and spectacular waterfalls. WWII bunkers, shipwrecks, and gun stations are a highlight of this trip. Circle over Green Hill Fort and Thursday Island before landing on Horn Island.

Icons of the North: Fly over the Torres Strait to the very top of Australia, Cape York to stand on the tip of Australia. A scenic flight over Punsand Bay and the Iconic Possession Island are more highlights before landing at Horn Island.

North Queensland Heli fishing adventure

Enjoy a scenic heli tour of North Queensland combined with a spot of fishing! Highlights include: Cairns, Mitchell River, Fishing and the Mt Mulgrave Homestead. This private day tour departs from Cairns.

Flying west from Cairns we intersect the mighty Mitchell River which starts on the Atherton Tablelands and flows 750km north-west across Cape York to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Along the way, it carves through the rugged highlands of the Great Diving Range. Tracking the river, we land at a secret fishing spot where we set up on the banks of the Mitchell, before rigging a couple of fishing lines. The river is teaming with Barramundi, not only a great fish to catch, but also fantastic eating as well. Lunch is served on the banks of the Mitchell. We then take you to Mt Mulgrave Homestead, a working cattle farm and family owned for generations. Experience what it is like to run a remote cattle station that has a similar land mass to some countries. Finally we cross the Great Dividing Range, before making our way back.

For more information about private Heli Tours of North Queensland or to arrange a heli tour elsewhere in Australia, please contact Alquemie.

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Charter a luxury expedition yacht

Posted on January 31, 2016August 10, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Amanda on Anda

Amanda here – reporting to you about a fabulous new find in the world of luxury expedition yachts! Her name is Anda and she is a true expedition vessel with luxury accommodation, all the toys and many comforts. Anda is not your typical white-boat, she is a luxury expedition yacht available for private charters into Australia’s wild & beautiful waters. Anda is for exploring, discovering and adventuring.

Currently berthed in Fremantle the Master, Hostess and Chef were happy to show me around the beautifully finished boat. Anda’s owner is a passionate yachtsman and has no fewer than 12 boats in his personal fleet, however only Anda and a 50 ft game fishing launch, The Fortescue, are available for charter.

Some facts about Anda:
Length: 42 mtr | 138 ft
Built: 1965 in Norway, originally as an ice-breaker. Rebuilt from 2010 to 2012
Cruising Speed: 10 knots
Cruise Range:7500 nm
Stabilisers: 2 x quantum stabilisers for smooth sailing in seas over 4 mtr
Guest Suites: 5 including the spacious master suite, 3 x queen suites and 1 x twin suite all with private en suite bathroom
Dining: indoor & outdoor for 10 people
Relaxation: sundeck with outdoor spa, large saloon area
Transport & fun: 2 x semi-inflatable high speed 7 mtr jet tenders, 2 x Seadoo jetskis
Crew: 10 highly experience crew including 2 executive chefs

Price point? Well to give you an idea, Anda is currently from AU$30,000 per day or $150,000 AUD per week plus GST. APA is included (advance provisioning allowance).

Where to? Pretty much wherever you want! Australia has nearly 60,000km of coastline but my recommendations would be the Kimberley Coast, Rowley Shoals, the Cape York Peninsula and the Great Barrier Reef.

So yes I am excited … Anda really offers stylish luxury, a sense of freedom and extraordinary Australian adventures!!

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Cape Lodge – Margaret River

Posted on January 10, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Cape Lodge – Reviewed

As we turned into Cape Lodge, my travelling friend and I both felt a sense of calm, of tranquillity. There are rows of grape vines in the distance, some grand old trees in the gardens and a scattering of elegant buildings that sit comfortably in the lovely, relaxed grounds – nothing jars! Our two night stay was about discovering more of the Margaret River region but I was excited to be staying in the recently refurbished Lake View Suites and dining in the refurbished restaurant – such a treat!

The Cape Lodge team are always welcoming and we were shown to our rooms after a cup of tea in the lounge and a chance to pick Veronique’s brain about where we should have lunch the next day. With beautiful views across the lake, the spacious suites are fabulous. The décor is warm with touches of vibrant grape-green, the bathrooms are open plan and yet provide for modesty if required. The beds are huge and comfortable, a sofa is positioned to enjoy the view and the carpet is the type that makes you wiggle your toes. Plush, rich, relaxed, serene … these are the words that spring to mind.

We wandered over to the restaurant for dinner and gone are the dark plums of its past! The restaurant and bar have new life, again a new colour palate, this time cool & fresh colours that allow the focus to be where it should be – on the stunning cuisine that is thoughtfully and artfully plated up. We opted for the 5 course tasting menu and loved the delicious flavours, sensible portion sizes and impeccable wine pairing. On our second night we enjoyed a shared platter in the bar – after a full day of wine touring and eating this was more than enough and is a really smart offering.

We can report that we would happily go back there again every weekend – Cape Lodge offers a regional experience that has just the right amount of relaxed friendly style, sophisticated cuisine and beautiful surrounds. Well done on the refurb, Cape Lodge you’re looking great!

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Victoria’s Great Ocean Road

Posted on January 9, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

How to visit the Great Ocean Road

We are often asked about the Great Ocean Road – 243 kms of rocky coastline, west of Melbourne and considered one of Australia’s greatest road-trip destinations. It boasts awe-inspiring coastal views, deserted white sandy beaches, beautiful rainforest scenery and beautiful national parks that are home to koalas, kangaroos and other wildlife.

The most scenic portion begins in Torquay, a town well known as a surfing hot-spot and ends in the whale-watching town of Warrnambool; in between are several picturesque coastal towns, a number of gourmet restaurants and a couple of boutique accommodation options. One of the most popular stops along the way is the world-famous 12 Apostles, magnificent natural rock structures that are more than 20 million years old, which rise up majestically from the Southern Ocean.

So, how best to experience all of this…

Many travellers opt for a longer stay in one of Melbourne’s excellent hotels and just zoot out to explore the Great Ocean Road on a day trip. However, be aware that a full day road trip is up to 12 hours with as much as 9 hours spent in the vehicle. Along the way there will be great views of coastal cliffs, long sandy beaches, rural landscapes, the 12 Apostles and other ocean carved ‘architecture’. There will be a stop for lunch and perhaps a walk in the rainforest & fern gullies of the Otway National Park and usually the option of a helicopter scenic flight.

Ultimate Great Ocean Road tour

Budget permitting our Ultimate Great Ocean Road tour showcases the iconic coastline by luxury touring vehicle before a 75 minute scenic, private helicopter flight back to Melbourne. The day includes a gourmet lunch of local produce and fresh seafood served within sight of sandy beaches. As you travel, our passionate local guide shares insight into Australia’s surfing culture, stories of the shipwrecks that line this coast and, with luck, will point out kangaroos or koalas.

The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk

The active traveller may prefer The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk: Operating between September and May and graded moderate, this 3 night / 4 day eco-lodge based walk is a great way to experience the coast and see Australian wildlife as the trail is alive with native flora and fauna including fur seals, wallabies and koalas. Learn about the land through the eyes of the first Australians and the British convicts transported here on ships over 200 years ago. The coast is littered with shipwrecks from this time, and the tales of survival and loss are part of the fabric of the Great Ocean Walk.

Self-drive The Great Ocean Road – 2 to 10 nights

For the independent traveller a self-drive discovery of the Great Ocean Road is a great option: However don’t rush! Whilst the Great Ocean Road spans a relatively small distance if you whizz along it you will probably be disappointed. There are three itineraries we recommend and they range from 2 to 5 nights but certainly a journey of even 10 days would be time well spent.

When travelling independently it is important to go slowly, allowing time to chat to the locals, make discoveries and explore. Allow time for walks, poking about weekend markets, visiting points of interest and taking up local tours such as kayaking on Lake Elizabeth in search of Platypus.

Some of our favourite hotels in this area are:

Oscar’s Waterfront Boutique Hotel – a charming small hotel, an exceptional bed & breakfast
Drift House – modern conversion of a heritage building in the pretty town of Port Fairy
Great Ocean Ecolodge – a small guest house operated by the Conservation Ecology Centre
Royal Mail at Dunkeld – an award winning restaurant with lovely accommodation attached
Meringa Springs – a small, luxury lodge offering stunning views of the Grampians
Big Blue Backyard – three delightful guest rooms on the Mornington Peninsula

Tailor-made Great Ocean Road

But the best way to do the Great Ocean Road: If budget and time permit then a multi-day road trip hosted by an expert passionate guide in a comfortable vehicle with tailor-made activities, from Aboriginal experiences to whales at Warrnambool, can be designed to be pure Alquemie!

Click here to find out more about Australian travel with Alquemie

Bennelong at Sydney Opera House

Posted on September 11, 2015July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Bennelong Reborn

As one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia, the Sydney Opera House is hard to miss. Housed in one of the heritage sails is Bennelong restaurant that opened a few months ago with much fanfare. Peter Gilmore is the man behind it all, with a loyal following and several restaurants (Quay is right across the water), he is considered one of Australia’s best chefs.

Gilmore’s goal was to create dining spaces that are a little more casual than the Bennelong restaurant that occupied the same space previously under a different chef. The result is rather impressive with the cathedral like space renovated to allow various dining areas. On the top level there is a private dining space along with a more casual eating section. The middle level is home to the ‘cured and cultured’ bar serving a variety of raw and cold produce (picture a glass of bubbly with a few oysters). The flagship restaurant is on the main floor serving refined Australian cuisine on a three course a la carte menu.

Bennelong restaurant at Sydney Opera House

The food is stunning and showcases fine Australian produce prepared perfectly to highlight its quality. Everything is of the highest standard from the super fresh oysters, to the tender beef, to the perfectly prepared single carrot that sits on your plate like an artwork. The wine list boats a great selection of Australia producers, and again re-inforces Gilmore’s desire to create a dining experience that is utterly Australian.

With panoramic views of the city this is a dining experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Get in touch with us to book your next exquisite dinning experience in Sydney.

Click here to find out more about Australian travel with Alquemie

Lizard Island

Posted on September 9, 2015July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Lizard Island is back!

We are very excited to have Lizard Island, one of our favourite tropical islands on the Great Barrier Reef is back after a full refurbishment. We absolutely love this resort as it boasts some of the most impressive coastal scenery, located right on the reef, and paired with quintessentially laid back Australian luxury – a truly magical destination!

Anchor Bay suite at Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island is located off the coast of North Queensland, accessible by charter or scheduled flights from Cairns. The resort has been closed for some time while it has undergone a full refurbishment – including all suites and public areas. We have had our first few clients stay and the feedback is as wonderful as ever. The chic new rooms are fitting with the surrounding environment, and the common areas retain their relaxed atmosphere.

Flying over to Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

As lovely as the rooms are, the focus is most definitely on the reef. Lizard is quite unique in that the island has an impressive reef in a protected lagoon just around from the resort. Guests have access to reserve a motorised dinghie for the day where they can roam as they please. Swim amongst turtles, giant clams, and abundant marine life before picking a secluded private beach to settle down with a gourmet picnic lunch. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Water-based activities at Lizard Island Beach Club on the Great Barrier Reef

For guests that are interested in diving there are various outer reef sites within easy reach of the resort, and arguably some of the best in North Queensland. Those wanting to stay put needn’t worry – the spa, fabulous food and wine selection, and stunning accommodation will ensure guests can relax in style! Welcome back Lizard – we are excited…

A blissful sandy cove at Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef

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