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Where to stay on the Great Barrier Reef
Glamorous pavilions in an upmarket private resort versus comfy beach-side suites for adventure seekers.
Up until recently Hamilton Island had a reputation for gaudy tourist developments. But then in 2003 Australian billionaire Bob Oatley bought the island and set about glamming it up. Qualia, his luxury resort, is pretty upmarket, with private pavilions, fantastic food and excellent facilities.
How they rate it
"Qualia is everything the old Hamilton Island was not: sophisticated, contemporary and elegant," says Cond Nast Traveller. Situated on the northern tip of the island, it is far away from Hamilton's busy areas and exudes an "air of calm". When booking, opt for one of the Windward Pavilions, as they come with private plunge pools and better views. If you get bored with sunbathing there is a water-sports centre with 17ft catamarans for excursions to the Great Barrier Reef.
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Guests can dine at either Long Pavilion or the more casual Pebble Beach. Dishes at the former include terrine of Barossa Valley chicken or citrus ravioli.
The cost
Pavilions cost from A$1,045. Children under 16 aren't allowed to stay at the resort. For more, visit www.qualia.com.au, or call 00 61 7 4948 9222.
Dunk Island Resort, Dunk Island
This is one of the most accessible resort islands on the Great Barrier Reef. Nonetheless, it retains a castaway atmosphere with white, sandy beaches fringed by palm trees, a volcanic peak and dense, tropical forest. The reef itself is just an hour away by boat.
How they rate it
The Dunk Island resort is "convivial rather than chic", says Mark Chipperfield in The Daily Telegraph. The beach-side suites are spacious and comfortable. More importantly, "the staff here seem genuinely keen to please (which is not always the case in tropical Queensland)". If you are looking for peace and solitude, this may not be the resort for you. However, those who prefer a bit of adventure will be in heaven. The resort offers kayaking, horse riding, mountain biking, tennis, snorkelling, sailing and sports fishing. You can also head to the reef using one of the various excursion options. These range from a glass-bottomed boat to a sunset cruise or diving expedition.
The menu
Most guests choose to eat at the Beachcomber restaurant. It serves delicious local dishes, including cajun kangaroo fillet, or baked ocean trout with spiced rhubarb soup.
The cost
A beachfront suite costs from A$610 per night. Find out more at www.dunk-island.com, or call 00 61 7 4068 8199.
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