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The Tiwi Islands

Posted on by Nicola Billens

The beautiful Tiwi Islands comprise of two main islands – Bathurst and Melville, located 80 kilometres north of Darwin. Often referred to as the ‘Islands of Smiles’, the residents of the Tiwi Islands are mostly of Aboriginal descent and it’s these welcoming people and their culture that is the key drawcard. They are known for their traditional lifestyle, stunning artworks, vibrant fabrics and textile, not to mention their passion for Aussie rules. Alongside the locals, the other drawcard is nature herself – the Tiwi islands are one of the most untouched ecosystems in Australia and offer a wealth of nature based adventures.

Visitors can do day trips from Darwin via ferry, helicopter, seaplane or private charter, or they can spend a little longer and truly immerse in this remote and wonderful destination.

 

 

 

 

Accommodation on the Tiwi Islands – Tiwi Island Retreat

Tiwi Island Retreat is a remote, exclusive and pristine beachfront property located on the South West coast of Bathurst Island. It is locally owned and operated by National Geographic’s Outback Wrangler, Matt Wright.

Tiwi Island Retreat is the perfect place for any intrepid explorer looking to get off the beaten track and enjoy a truly pristine, remote island holiday.

Visitors can simply relax and enjoy the exclusive beach front location and pool, or experience once in a lifetime outback and fishing adventures, helicopter and 4wd buggy tours, wildlife encounters or amazing Indigenous arts and cultural tours.

Experiences on the Tiwi Islands

Beach Buggy Cruise & Cheese Platter – Travel along the pristine 4 Mile Beach by quad bike to a secret creek spot followed by drinks and a cheese platter.

Mud Crabbing & Fishing – Pull crab pots, fish for barramundi in the creeks and eating your catch at the end of the day.

Remote Swimming Hole Helicopter Adventure – Explore the beauty of this pristine location from the air combined with a visit and swim in the crystal-clear waters of one of Australia’s most remote water holes.

Creek Fishing Adventure – Exceptional once in a lifetime barramundi fishing experience in one of the most remote, pristine fishing environments in the world.

Private Indigenous Arts & Cultural Experience – Spectacular scenic flight across Bathurst Island combined with a truly special Indigenous art and cultural tour ran on ‘Tiwi time’.

Deep Sea Fishing Charter – Our full day deep sea fishing charter takes you to some of the most remote, pristine fishing environments in the world.

Heli-fishing adventures – You’ll be flown to a remote, pristine and exclusive fishing locations around the the Tiwi Islands, targeting the elusive Barramundi.

Secrets of the North – A small group getaway to the Hawkesbury

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Grab a group of friends for a four-night trip just one-hour north of Sydney. Below is an example of a small-group nature-based getaway that can be dialled up or down to suit the group’s passions and budget. Finishing at the brand new Marramarra Lodge, this itinerary will leave guests feeling refreshed and reinvigorated after spending time in the stunning Hawkesbury region.

Day 1: Self drive to Mooney Mooney (or seaplane / heli options). Pearls of Australia Shellar door experience followed by Pearl Farm tour. Remote location drop-off for Welcome to Country followed by guided Aboriginal cultural walk. Sundowners with a view and local gin tasting. Dinner under the stars.
Stay: Choice of Bouddi Peninsula accommodation

Day 2: Morning guided nature walk. Gourmet picnic lunch at secret historic ruins. Afternoon / sunset sailing on the Hawkesbury. Waterside dinner.
Stay: Bouddi Peninsula accommodation

Day 3: Morning nature wellness session / Optional beach time if weather permits. Scenic road transfer to boat ramp for transfer to Marramarra Lodge. Afternoon at leisure. Sundowner Hawkesbury cruise followed by 6 course degustation.
Stay: Marramarra Lodge

Day 4: Morning kayak or SUP to historic Bar Island for guided tour. Choice of Marramarra Lodge activities. Farewell dinner
Stay: Marramarra Lodge

P.O.A.
Please enquire with the Alquemie team at info@alquemie.com.au.

Blue Mountains Luxury Family Eco-Adventure

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Take the family on a 4-night luxury eco-adventure including a conservation experience and horse-riding. Enjoy the fun of luxury 4×4 exploration to lesser-known parts of Blue Mountains World Heritage area. From ancient rainforests to panoramic escarpments to deep canyons and ending with two-nights at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, a Luxury Lodge of Australia, this unique, expertly guided family adventure will educate, surprise and leave guests spell-bound.

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

 

 

Day 1: Pick up Sydney location for a 4×4 Blue Mountains Eco-Adventure with wilderness walks & wildlife spotting.
Stay: Choice of Blue Mountains luxury accommodation

Day 2: More exploring of lesser known parts of the Blue Mountains Optional canyoning or bush survival skills
Stay: Choice of Blue Mountains luxury accommodation

Day 3: Morning glow worm tunnel visit Arrival after lunch at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Conservation activities
Stay: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Day 4: Morning horse riding Afternoon activities – historic tour, wildlife safari, mountain biking, bush walking….
Stay: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Day 5: Scenic Helicopter departure (or road if budget doesn’t permit).

Optional: Return touring experience with Chris Darwin to follow in Charles Darwin’s footsteps.

P.O.A.
To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at info@alquemie.com.au.

A Nature-based Family Escape near Canberra

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Experience Canberra’s premier wildlife sanctuary like never before with the ultimate family sleepover – A Wild Night out At Tidbinbilla with one-night adventures available from Friday 25 September 2020 to Saturday 10 October 2020.

From the minute you arrive at the Wilderness Family Camp you will be immersed in nature. Everyone will be welcomed to the camp, learning about the area. On each trip is a range of family-friendly activities, giving guests their own unique journey at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Star gazing and a night wildlife walk is a must in this peaceful reserve, just out of Canberra. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind and spend some quality time with the family.

A hot BBQ buffet is provided for dinner, and after a restful night sleep, you can enjoy a continental breakfast with hot tea and coffee.

Overnight accommodation in Wilderness Family Camp (Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve) with dinner and breakfast included in packages.

A Wild Night out At Tidbinbilla


FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM

With many activities on offer, guests will have a fun packed weekend for the whole family to enjoy. From CSI Tidbinbilla, to Hi-Tech Wildlife and behind the scenes at the vet centre our itineraries offer something for eveyone.

CSI Tidbinbilla – where families get to join a fun CSI’ style investigation where we hunt for the predator who has taken one of our Potaroos from the Eucalypt forest. Solve the clues to catch the bad guy and learn more about predators while taking part in this interactive activity.

Aboriginal Hanging Rock – Join a Murrumbung Aboriginal Ranger and explore the Tidbinbilla Aboriginal Rock Shelters. See how people used to live and survive, what it takes to live in the wild and learn about bush tucker foods

Hi Tech Wildlife – Walk at dusk in the Eucalypt Forest as we explore the use of different technologies to monitor critters including bandicoots, potaroos and koalas. Get hands on with scanners, cameras, goggles and other equipment used in the reserve!

Behind the Scene’s at the Vet Centre – Meet the Wildlife team and get up close and personal with a critically endangered Northern Corroboree Frog and find out what goes on behind closed doors.

Package includes:

  • One night family glamping tent for two adults and two children
  • Activities
  • A hot BBQ buffet dinner
  • Continental breakfast

To include this as part of a school-holiday itinerary please enquire with the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

Beyond the Beaches – A three-day nature escape from Sydney

Posted on by Nicola Billens

This three-night soft-adventure NSW escape is perfect for families, small groups of friends or couples. Guided activities can be tailored to your passions and can incorporate behind-the-scenes experiences with local artisans and producers. Beginning with a scenic seaplane flight down to Jervis Bay, this itinerary ticks all the boxes for an easy escape back to nature combined with delicious food and unique activities like the Canoes, Champagne and Canapes experience.

 

Day One: Seaplane from Sydney to Jervis Bay

Take a scenic flight from Sydney down the coast, landing in the picturesque Jervis Bay. Once in this aquatic paradise, you can enjoy all marine adventures you could think of. From SUP’s to kayaks to whale watching and bird spotting, this little piece of paradise has it all. Dinner will be prepared by local caterers providing a taste of fresh seafood from the region. As you wander around the cabins, you will be greeted by many resident Kangaroos enjoying the company of their guests.

Overnight accommodation at The Cove Jervis Bay

Day Two: Head into the picturesque Kangaroo Valley

Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains entering the stunning Kangaroo Valley. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from a busy life and truly connect with nature. You will explore the waterways with a unique Canoes, Champagne and Canapes experience, with the chance to witness the regeneration from the 2019/2020 bushfires. A full day of adventure will be followed by a fireside feast featuring a local chef.

Overnight accommodation at Barranca Kangaroo Valley.

Day Three: Explore the Highlands like Never Before

As we make our way up the escarpment, we will be blessed with the stunning views overlooking the valley. Today is about experiencing the highlands like never before. From award winning wines to incredible waterfalls this is a nature lovers paradise. We will make a stop at the beautiful Belmore Falls before making our way into the Historic village of Berrima for lunch and a chance to explore the local shops, the afternoon activities will include wine tasting, then time to relax before heading to a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight accommodation at Bendooley Estate Cottages Southern Highlands.

To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au. Self-drive options also available.

 

CHOOSE FROM A RANGE OF ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES WITH LOCAL GUIDES, ARTISANS & PRODUCERS

NATURE

Bush Walking

Hiking

Canoeing

Mountain Biking

Rock Climbing

FOOD & WINE

Spirit Tastings

Boutique Beer Tastings

Wine Tastings

Cheese Tastings

Cooking Classes

OTHER OPTIONS

Dance Classes

Movies

Yoga

Tai Chi

Forest Bathing

Martial Arts

Spa

Boules

Canoes, Champagne & Canapes Weekend - Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 October

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Nowhere else in Australia are can you paddle through a sunken forest, observe the native wildlife that inhabit these gums, sip champagne, on a fresh-water lake, in our custom-built canoes. This area was directly impacted by January bushfires, so this is an opportunity to witness the regeneration of our native rainforest and see the stunning beauty of life returning.

Add in delicious local canapés, sampling cool climate wines as well as our expert qualified guides, and you have the most compelling way to experience this magical waterway, imaginable. The area we are exploring is very calm and the currents are mild, making paddling effortless. It’s an easy and safe way to get you into the waterways of the Southern Highlands/Shoalhaven. Also being fresh water, it’s a wonderful place to swim.

Day 1:

Truly immerse yourself in nature with an adventure filled weekend in Kangaroo Valley. Make your way to Kangaroo Valley, checking into the picturesque accommodation of Barranca, with a welcome pack of local wine and cheese awaiting your arrival.

You will have time to wander around the stunning property before heading inside for a delicious pre-prepared dinner box in your kitchen provided by one of the local award-winning restaurants. This luxury retreat offers guests with privacy and picturesque views of the sandstone escarpment of the valley. As well as being surrounded by native wildlife, guests have the delight of meeting the resident animals on the property, including the magnificent shire horses the playful donkeys and the cheeky, yet friendly Buffalo.

Day 2:

Breakfast will be at your leisure with a food box provided in your cabin including all the essentials such as bacon, eggs, bread, cereals and fresh fruit.

Now make your way to the waterways of Morton National Park where its time to glide down the river and enjoy the view from the picturesque Lake Yarrunga embarking on another special experience in the valley. Canoes, Champagne & Canapés is the perfect combination food, wine and wilderness. Indulge your taste buds with wild native canapés and a local award-winning cold-climate wine and discover what is unapologetically, one of the most stunning waterways in the state. Take a seat in one of the custom-built double-canoe rigs and immerse your senses in its sheer beauty.

Day 3:

After another delicious breakfast you’ll check out of Barranca and head out on an olive degustation, where you will sit amongst the olive groves and sample the freshest oil and products produced on-site. This is the perfect spot to sip on some local wines and enjoy the views of the valley before returning to the bustle of Sydney city life.

Please enquire with the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

Wildlife Conservation Sanctuary Heli Swag Adventure

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Imagine visiting a place so remote and so isolated that it’s like going back in time to pre-European days, where animals that have gone extinct elsewhere on mainland Australia thrive in uninterrupted peace. There is a wildlife sanctuary in the north west Kimberley that offers just this.

The sanctuary is home to more than 30 animal species that are found nowhere else in Australia. Being so inaccessible there is no accommodation and it is even difficult to get there by 4×4 which is what makes it such a special experience for those wanting to get off the beaten track. It plays s a vital role to play in protecting and restoring the endangered wildlife of northern Australia.

For philanthropic guests interested in conservation in Australia this is the experience of a lifetime. Within the sanctuary is a field research station, strategically positioned at the frontline in a battle to save some of Australia’s most endangered mammals from extinction.

Accessed by helicopter, guests would sleep in traditional Aussie swags and spend time with researchers in one of the most unique locations in the world.

Note that this experience would require a significant donation to the sanctuary in addition to the costs of the experience.

If this conservation experience appeals then please contact Alquemie to discuss what opportunities are available. This bespoke experience is by request only and at the discretion of the sanctuary.

 

Australia’s Best Guides – John Dyer – Remote Air Safaris

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Please explain a little bit about who you are and what you do.
 
I’m the Managing Director of Air Adventure. We operate high-end, outback air safaris on board our deluxe private aircraft. We are on a mission to enrich people’s lives by transforming the way they experience remote Australia. We enable people to defy distance by comfortably flying them on authentic, inspiring and seamlessly curated adventures in a genuinely small group of just 8 guests; leaving them with a meaningful connection to this country.
 
What got you started with remote air safaris and what do you find most interesting about it?
 
I grew up in the Western District of Victoria, near the Grampians. My father was a pilot and grazier (he started Air Adventure Australia), so I spent a lot of my youth travelling across our vast continent where I developed a love for travel and aviation. We loved discovering new places. The seasons, the weather patterns and the people we met, ensured that no two trips were ever the same. Before taking over the company in 2006 I was a tour leader on our air safaris, it really gives me a kick seeing people broadening their own horizons and immersing themselves in magic of outback Australia.
 
How do you bring remote Australia to life on your tours?
 
I love remote Australia and having our own aircraft basically means that nowhere is out of reach, the whole nation is at our fingertips. It is this unique capability that we offer our guests, coupled with our intimate knowledge and vast array of contacts across the outback – we can take people places that few have seen, in total comfort.
 
Why do you think it’s important that people learn about remote Australia?
 
Given our vast distances and minimal commercial regional flights, a private air safari is something that is almost endemic to Australia. We are never the cheapest way to travel however we are the best (a better way hasn’t been invented yet). I also firmly believe that Australia has some of the most fascinating and ancient history on the planet. We have paintings on cave walls that have been dated at over 20,000 years old – this makes the Pyramids look pretty young. There is so much diversity here from iconic landscapes, aboriginal art & culture, stock & station, remote outer islands plus this can be incorporated with gourmet food, wine and luxury accommodation.
 
If people wanted to find out more about remote Australia are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?
 
As we are a national operator, anything that sparks an interest in any of the many fascinating regions or aspects of our country. Here’s a few of my favourite books:
 
The Dig Tree – Sarah Murgatroyd
An amazing recount of the ill-fated Burke & Wills Expedition in the 1800s
 
Lake Eyre – A Journey to the Heart of the Continent – Paul Lockyer
A thorough explanation of the wonders of the Lake Eyre Basin – one of the largest inland drainage systems in the world.
 
Sapiens, A Brief History of Humankind – Yuval Noah Harari
A fascinating overview of how humans made their way from the middle of the food chain to the top. Indigenous Australians feature heavily.
 
What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?
It would have to be the yellow-tailed black cockatoo. I love the way they fly, they always seem to follow our family around and bring us good luck.
 
What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?
King Island, Tasmania. A remote speck in Bass Strait, it is a wild island with amazing beaches, fresh produce, friendly locals (everyone waves and nothing gets locked) and now some truly world class activities, golf being just one of them. At just 35mins flight from Melbourne, it is easily reachable.
 
What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?
I am yet to go along to the Grand Final on the Tiwi Islands, NT. Football is a form of religion to the local people and they have produced some of the all time greatest players in the AFL. I’ve been to the Tiwi Islands many times but never to watch an Aussie Rules match. While I am up there, I would definitely get in a boat and do some fishing – barramundi, giant trevally, Spanish mackerel, mud crabs and more are in abundance.
 
Finally, how can people follow you on social media?
@airadventure and @airadventuregolftours

Click here to find out more about Australian travel with Alquemie

Matt Wright Outback Wrangler – Australia’s Best Guides

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Private Outback Wrangler Top End Adventure

Matt Wright is one of Australia’s fastest growing icons and the star of National Geographic’s hit TV Show Outback Wrangler. He’s an authentic Aussie character who loves to show off the hidden magic in the landscapes and wildlife of his back yard – the Top End of Australia.

He spends most of his time on cattle stations where he musters cattle, flies his helicopters, rounds up brumbies and catches and relocates some of the biggest saltwater crocodiles in the world. He has a passion for adventure and loves fishing for barramundi and exploring the floodplains of the Northern Territory on his airboats.

Guests of Alquemie are invited on a private Outback Wrangler Top End Adventure, tailored to include any or all of the following:

  • Helifishing
  • Deep Sea Fishing
  • Crocodile Encounters
  • Barramundi and Sail Fishing
  • Airboating
  • Helicopter Adventures
  • Waterfalls and Swimming Holes
  • Jet skiing
  • Crabbing
  • Bird Watching
  • Sunset River Cruises

Trips can incorporate a range of these thrilling modes of transport: Robinson R44 Helicopters • Robinson R66 Helicopters • AS350 Luxury Helicopters • High Speed Catamaran Boat • Small and Large Airboats • Large River Cruise Boat • Jet skis • Off Road Buggies

Salt water crocodile

 

An example of a day with Matt might include:

  • Relaxing river cruise along the pristine rainforest waters teaming with aqua life, water birds including the majestic Muk Muk (white bellied sea eagle) and of course the local crocs and Matt’s favourite croc, Bone Cruncher.
  • Monsoonal rainforest tour onboard custom built airboats where your guests will weave their way through the wetlands and tall timbered swamps, encountering more of the NT’s most unique wildlife; including some of biggest crocs and the smallest of the kingfisher (Little Kingfisher) – only a keen eye will be able to spot this one!
  • Helicopter scenic flights above the Finniss River floodplains to witness the true beauty of the surrounding landscape.
  • Fresh BBQ Barramundi or local steak lunch enjoyed on floating pontoons
  • Live feed show of Matt’s pet croc, a 17ft prehistoric beast named ‘Tripod.’

Or a day’s helifishing…

  •  Fly out of Darwin and down to the floodplains of the Finniss River system where you will land for your first crack at landing a barramundi.
  • Stop off at up to four locations in this region and fish the remote waterways that are only accessible by helicopter.
  • Beachside lunch at the open-air deck of Crab Claw Island Resort. Choose from the selection of delicious meals on their menu or bring your catch from the morning and the talented Chef will cook it to your liking.
  • It’s back in the helicopters and back to the beautiful floodplains where you will have the opportunity to board custom built airboats and explore the monsoonal rainforests which are teaming with wildlife.
  • Visit to ‘Tripod’, Matt’s 17ft pet saltwater crocodile, for an up close encounter with this prehistoric animal. Back in the choppers and its another quick stop for a fish and a hit out of crabbing before heading home.

For an insight into Matt, watch this 60 minutes video.

Talk to your Alquemie Advisor about tailoring a Top End adventure with Matt Wright, the Outback Wrangler.