A 30-minute scenic helicopter transfer over the islands off the coast of Townsville is a pretty good way to check in to a resort.

That is exactly how your stay at Orpheus Island begins. Situated amidst the crystal-clear waters of the iconic Great Barrier Reef, is the unspoilt tropical paradise of Orpheus Island, stretching across 11km of immaculate turquoise coastline also comprises of 1,368 hectares of pristine National Park and surrounding World Heritage-listed Marine Park.

Nestled in the sheltered Hazard Bay on the western side of the island, the luxury lodge is laid without fanfare along a ribbon of serene beach and features laid-back boutique accommodation, a main pavilion bar and alfresco-style dining area, a restaurant, a reading room, Gwandalan Day Spa, an inviting 26m x 13m infinity pool that mirrors the Coral Sea.

Orpheus Island Resort, while oozing five-star luxury and all those finer things, is not at all pretentious. The island’s relaxed vibes are contagious and inviting.

 

Rooms

The accommodation is spread out, offering an intimate and exclusive feel. Featuring open-plan living and high ceilings, the suites provide the perfect hideaway. The interiors are beachcomber chic and showcase soft natural surfaces and exquisite details that sit in harmony with the beaches and coral cays. The furniture is relaxed and imbued with a sense of style. The suites are complimented by private cobblestone courtyards at the rear with an outdoor stone bath big enough for two.

 

Activities

Orpheus showcases a plethora of once-in-a-lifetime experiences where you can do as much or as little as you please. A simple beach walk will have you discovering the sharks and rays cruised the shoreline close enough you could touch them. On high tide, you can swim straight from the beach and snorkel. Guests can jump in their own motorised dinghy to venture out into the countless magnificent bays fringing the island to experience absolute seclusion.

All use of the water sports (except scuba-diving) is included in the stay, including stand-up paddle boards, catamaran adventures, sea kayaks and snorkelling gear. There are many walks throughout the island and the staff at the resort are so fantastic, they will even pack you a gourmet lunch picnic to take with you on your adventures.

 

Dining

All meals are included in the stay, with guests able to enjoy five-star meals and dining experiences. For something a little more unique, pick a night when the skies are clear and you can see the stars, to enjoy an intimate dinner for two on the pier while the setting sun highlights the Coral Sea’s pristine waters.

 

What stands out

The ongoing process of conservation is at the very heart of Orpheus’ philosophy and is part of the island’s continuing endeavours to safeguard the environment. They have implemented a number of sustainable measures to ensure an eco-sensitive aura pervades the island, from eradication of harmful fauna and flora and the replanting of lost species of flora to sustainable vegetable gardening and farming patch which provides the chefs with a constant supply of fresh produce for guest meals.

There is a state-of-the-art waste water treatment plant that allows 100% of the water to be recycled and used for irrigation and watering and best of all, instead of using those horrid water bottles you get a re-usable water bottle which also is a nice souvenir of your time on the island.

 

Need to Know

Prices start from $2,300 per night, for two guests and include all gourmet meals, complimentary inclusion of selected regional wines, beers and soft drinks, Orpheus experience daily – snorkelling & nature based guided activities, unlimited use of motorised dinghies, paddle boards, catamarans, sea kayaks, snorkelling equipment and light fishing tackle.

Rates are not inclusive of helicopter transfers to/from Orpheus, click here for further information. 

Kate was a guest at Orpheus Island.

Kate Webster

Kate Webster is the founder and owner of Captured Travel Media. She is a world traveller, ocean lover and conservation warrior who is determined to make every moment count for not only herself, but the world around her. An editor and travel journalist, Kate travels the globe in search of vivid imagery and compelling stories that capture the essence of the people and places she visits. She is a passionate conservation advocate, sustainable traveller and always travels with reason and cause.

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