El Questro Homestead Archives - Bespoke vacations

Luxury Australian Itinerary – Barefoot honeymoon

Posted on December 14, 2018June 26, 2019 by Nicola Billens

Barefoot honeymoon

12 nights, plus a night or two en route where desired or required.

Australia’s luxury barefoot paradises are exclusive by virtue of their remoteness, their special location and the small number of guests they accommodate at any one time. They offer privacy, outstanding experiences and a sense of understated luxury and romance to ensure your honeymoon is the most memorable holiday of a lifetime.

This itinerary is just an indicator of what’s on offer in Australia. At Alquemie we tailor make every vacation based on the whims of our guests. Please contact us to find out about the magical holiday we could craft for you.

Spot wildlife from The Hide at Bamurru Plains

BAMURRU PLAINS TOP END, NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

(Bamurru Plains is open from 1 May to 31 October)
Bamurru Plains This nine room camp exudes ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ ensuring that guests are introduced to the sights and sounds of this spectacular environment in style. On the edge of Kakadu National Park, Bamurru Plains, its facilities and 300km² of country are exclusively for the use of its guests – a romantic, privileged outback experience.

A selection of must do’s

Airboat tour – A trip out on the floodplain wetlands is utterly exhilarating and the only way to truly experience this key natural environment. Cut the engine and float amongst mangroves and waterlilies which create one of the most romantic natural sceneries possible.
4WD safaris – An afternoon out with one of the guides will provide a insight to this fragile yet very important environment.
Enjoy the thrill of a helicopter flight and an exclusive aerial experience over the spectacular floodplains and coastline of Northern Australia.
Escape to a remote and beautiful bush spot in comfort and safety of The Hide’, 6 metres above the ground and spend a romantic night with only the sounds of the bush to keep you company.

Fine dining in the remote wilderness at El questro — Fine dining in the remote wilderness at El Questro

EL QUESTRO HOMESTEAD, THE KIMBERLEY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3NIGHTS)

The luxury of the El Questro Homestead sits in stark contrast to Western Australia’s rugged Kimberley landscape. Perched on a cliff top, with vistas of over the Chamberlain River, the Homestead is a romantic remote retreat catering for a maximum of 18 guests. Honeymooners should try one of the three new Cliff Side Retreats at the Homestead for total privacy at this luxe wilderness base.

A selection of must do’s

Take off on a Helicopter Tour to The Lost City and Miri Miri Falls. Explore the Lost City with an El Questro ranger, followed by a cool dip in the pristine Miri Miri Falls while you enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch.
Spend an afternoon at the Zebedee Thermal Springs – A magical place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day.
The Homestead is renowned for serving gourmet cuisine in dramatic locations. Request an intimate dinner beneath the stars, or a table set on the cliff side.

LONGITUDE 131°AYERS ROCK – ULURU, NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

At Longitude 131°, a gathering of luxury pavilions overlooking Uluru, the vibe is intimate and civilised. The desert retreat fans out from the cool sanctuary of the Dune House, site of lounging, dining and Rock gazing, the perfect base from which to explore the World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta. Camping certainly doesn’t come more glamorous nor the view from the ‘tent’ more spectacular than this.

A selection of must do’s

Table 131° – Dine out on sumptuous fare at an exclusive venue among the dunes and be mesmerised by the sounds of an ancient culture. Later, Longitude’s resident astronomer regales the gathering with tales of the southerly constellations.
Sunset Camel Ride – Explore the great Central Australia desert at a slow and relaxed pace, accompanied by an expert guide, regaling you with colourful anecdotes about life in this remarkable region.
Journey to Uluru in the late afternoon and arrive at Kantju Gorge at dusk to witness the gorge walls illuminated in the vivid evening light. Enjoy sunset drinks and canapés in the silence and solitude.

Capella is situated on Lord Howe Island - one of Australia's most beautiful destinations — Capella is situated on Lord Howe Island – one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations

CAPELLA LODGE LORD HOWE ISLAND, NEW SOUTH WALES (3NIGHTS)

Inspired by the Australian beach-house, Capella Lodge, is celebrated as a haven of understated luxury and Lord Howe’s premium retreat. Often referred to as the ‘Last Paradise’, the tiny island is an intoxicating blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforests and sheer volcanic peaks, including Mount Gower rated as one of Australia’s best day walks. Below the surface, the world’s southern-most coral reef is home to an abundance of marine life. This is barefoot luxury at its best.

A selection of must do’s

World class diving with species endemic to the region. Expect to see schools of Violet Sweep, Amberjack, Kingfish, Silver Drummer, Ballina Angelfish, Rainbow Runners and occasionally Marlin, Dolphins and Wahoo.
Pamper yourselves in the petite Capella Spa, offering luxurious a menu of rejuvenating treatments inspired by the island’s endemic kentia palms, volcanic basalt rocks and pristine marine environment.
Be part of a tradition that has enchanted visitors for generations – make your way to Neds Beach to hand-feed the ‘locals’ including the royalty of Lord Howe fish, metre-long kingfish.

Click here to begin your tailor-made journey to Australia

Luxury Australian itinerary – A Trip For Twitchers

Posted on August 29, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

A Trip For Twitchers

12 nights, plus a night or two at your arrival or departure destination if desired

Australia’s environment is one of the most diverse on earth and its landscape is one of the oldest. Its flora and fauna have evolved in isolation for 45 million years, untouched by the upheavals of the world’s continental plates.

Twitchers are spoilt for choice with over 800 species of birds – many of these endemic to Australia – enabling the country to stake a strong claim to be the world’s greatest hotspot of bird endemism. Many of the species are easy to observe due to their charismatic and colourful physiques and beautiful song.

ARKABA FLINDERS RANGES, SOUTH AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

A private wildlife conservancy, Arkaba’s true luxury lies in the fact that its 60,000 acres are shared by just 10 guests, taking the definition of exclusivity to a new level in Australia. Located in the ancient and awe-inspiring grand scale landscape of the Flinders Ranges, Arkaba provides the opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the story of the bush – its ancient geology, diverse bird and wildlife and the chance to understand the conservation challenges that Australia faces.

A selection of must do’s

Over the last 3 years Arkaba has confirmed sightings of 10 new bird species including the Stubble Quail (Coturnix pectoralis), Spotted Nightjars (Eurostopodus argus) and the Horsfields Bronze Cuckoo (Chalcites (chrysococcyx) basilis).
Spending time with a one of Arkaba’s expert guides bushwalking along the dry bed of the Arkaba Creek is a great way to soak up the sounds and smells of the bush and expand your knowledge on Australian fauna and flora whilst enjoying the abundance of birdsong.
Arkaba appreciates birds can be environmental indicators and studies them to help understand how the natural environment is faring. For those keen to learn more of the challenges Australia faces in saving its diversity of birdlife, join one of Arkaba’s field guides one evening to track a radio collared feral cat or set up the trip cameras that monitor key sites across the property.

Magpie Geese on the floodplains of Bamurru Plains

BAMURRU PLAINS TOP END, NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

Bamurru Plains is an extraordinary wild bush luxury experience on the edge of the Mary River floodplain, adjacent to Kakadu National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory. The coastal floodplains of northern Australia are home to prolific bird (236 species) and wildlife (Australia’s answer to the Okavango Delta) whilst Kakadu and Arnhem Land are the heartland of the country’s indigenous culture.
*Bamurru Plains is open from 1 May to 31 October.

A selection of must do’s

The Mary River floodplain is home to an extraordinary gathering of Magpie Geese and during the period after the young have hatched (April/May), the floodplain will host hundreds of thousands of these birds. The hatching period also draws a huge number of raptors (kites, goshawks and sea-eagles) to feed on the young goslings.
A cruise on the Sampan Creek offers the chance of sighting a Great-billed Heron. Other rare species at Bamurru Plains include the Grey Goshawk and the Red Goshaw.
Waking at dawn to hear the cacophony of sound from the Magpie Geese, Whistling Kites, Blue-winged Kookaburras is nature’s own alarm clock and the perfect start to a day’s safari.

EL QUESTRO HOMESTEAD, THE KIMBERLEY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

In the middle of almost 1 million acres of Wilderness Park and 100km from the nearest town, the luxury of the El Questro Homestead sits in stark contrast to Western Australia’s rugged Kimberley landscape. Perched on a cliff top, with vistas of one of the most strikingly beautiful locations, the Homestead is a relaxed and exclusive retreat catering for a maximum of 18 guests.

A selection of must do’s

The variety of ecosystems in the park attract 100 different bird species including, Rainbow Bee Eaters, Pheasant Coucols, dancing Brolgas and even the once near extinct Gouldian Finch.
Spend an afternoon at the Zebedee Thermal Springs – A magical place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy morning birding and climbing through the gorges.
The Little Pied Cormorant is the smallest Australian cormorant and is fairly common on El Questro waterways. It can be seen sitting on exposed rocks along the route of the Wandjina boat in the Chamberlain Gorge. Their nest is a small, shallow structure of sticks and it breeds throughout most of the year.

crystalbrook-lodge_outback-queensland_sea-eagle — A sea-eagle at Crystalbrook lodge

CRYSTALBROOK LODGE NORTHERN OUTBACK, QUEENSLAND (3 NIGHTS)

Remote…wild…elegant. Hidden in the rugged outback of North Queensland, Crystalbrook Lodge is a secret outback mecca catering to only 10 guests is an oasis of luxury perched over the spectacular Crystalbrook Lake and is part of the historic 85,000 acre Crystalbrook Station. Home to a staggering array of wildlife including birds, freshwater crocodiles, and fish guests can spend their days on the lake or riverside, exploring the bush wilderness or just enjoying the serenity and stillness of the outback from the lodge.

A selection of must do’s

The birdlife here is spectacular with nesting sea eagles regularly seen near the lodge. Enjoy the freedom of solitude and observe Bee Eaters, Koel Jabiru, Blue Faced Honeyeaters, Scarlet Honeys from the purpose built bird watching viewing platform.
Glide along the lake aboard a kayak or in the lodge’s virtually silent electric boat and become part of the lake’s daily rhythm as dainty Lotus Birds walk by on Lily pads and Jabiru and other water birds go about their business.
In the evening enjoy the Theatre Room where the day’s birding photos may be viewed and shared over a glass of wine or engross yourself in the bird and wildlife reference library.

Click here to begin your tailor-made journey to Australia

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.

Click here to find out more about Australian travel with Alquemie