Showing posts with label Queensland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Queensland. Show all posts

13 September 2012

Local Treats

Italy is know for its pizza and pasta, England for its bangers ‘n’ mash, America for the Apple Pie, France for their pastries well now its Australia’s time to shine and showoff out national treasures.


Moreton Bay Mud Crabs

Queensland is renowned for its beautiful beaches and known as the Sunshine State. A local delicacy from the Moreton Bay region is about to be discovered the Moreton Bay Mud Crabs.  

They inhabit tropical to warm temperate waters which is mostly along the eastern coast. They are quite easy to catch though tying them up is the most important so they don’t escape. They are best enjoyed fresh just simply boiled until the shell turns red with a little lemon. However, there are amply recipes to enjoy these local treat.

Due to such high demand for the Moreton Bay mud crabs it is required in Queensland to hold a permit when holding female crabs.


Morton Bay Mud Crab, Queensland
Morton Bay Mud Crab, Queensland


Harry’s Café de Wheels.

If you want an authentic Australian pie and you are in Sydney then there is no better place than at Harry’s Café de Wheels. Their signature pie is the ‘tiger’ which is a stack consisting of a chunk beef pie, mash, mushy peas and gravy.  They are perfect for anytime time of the day where for lunch or a midnight snack these pies definitely will not disappoint.

With a long history initiating from the man himself Harry Edwards his amazing business idea has lasted the test of time. Now classified as a ‘quintessential Sydney icon’ in December 2004 by the National Trust of Australia (NSW) and is included on its register. It has received the thumbs up from multiple celebrities who visited over the years including Frank Sinatra, Sir Richard Branson and Elton John.

'Tiger'  signature pie at Harry's Cafe de Wheels, Sydney
'Tiger'  signature pie at Harry's Cafe de Wheels, Sydney

Original spot of Harry's Cafe de Wheels at Woolloomooloo, Sydney
Original spot of Harry's Cafe de Wheels at Woolloomooloo, Sydney


Melbourne Coffee

Melbourne is known for its small alley ways covered in graffiti, boutique shops, food, arts and culture. Coffee is also one to add to the list as their signature drinks with the aroma filling the streets. It hosts annual exhibitions and competitions all in the art of coffee including Detpak Australian Barista Championships and Melbourne International Coffee Expo. Coffee art is a must and some of the most talented and internationally recognised artists are located right in Melbourne. 

Coffee is imbedded everywhere in the cities culture with guided tours showcasing the best places, explaining the history and brewing process. It intiated on Bourke Hill when the Melbournians were challenged to develop “cupping skills” inciting the craze of coffee.

For the Melbourne weather which has a mind of its own, there is no better comforter than a freshly brewed coffee. With 400 street cafes, there is definitely one which will fit your tastebuds in a heartening atmosphere.  



Amazing coffee art, Melbourne
Amazing coffee art, Melbourne



Barossa Valley

The Barossa Valley region is located in South Australia and is a landmark region known as Australia’s most famous wine region. Home to internationally regarded wine writers, judges, retailer, consumers and producers as well as 5-star food and dining.

This region is the longest unbroken lineage of winemaking and grape-growing families with some entering their seventh generation. In a response to the pressure from the European wine industry to develop an internationally recognised system and name the Barossa Valley was born.  It has 160 years of European cultural traditions embedded into the methodology and production it has been labelled as an old New World wine region.

Over time it has developed its own unique varietal style, the Barossa Shiraz. Including their most expensive and sought after embodiments, Penfolds Grange and Henschke Hill of Grace. 



Barossa Valley Region vineyards, South Australia
Barossa Valley Region vineyards, South Australia



Little Creature Beer

Australians are perceived as a laid back country with a stubby in one hand and a pie in the other. There are heaps of established beer brand in Australia and around the world but now there is a new one Little Creatures which is taking Australia by storm. Located in Western Australia, Fremantle this locally brewed beer is certainly one to try. There signature beers are the Pale Ale and Bright Ale which is their take on purely Australian style ale.

Developed by a group of friends who have a love for great beer and it was a life long dream to develop a beer which they wanted to drink, a hop driven pale ale. Inspiration was taken from pilgrimages through the US and turned into reality of establishing a brewery.

Little Creatures Brewery’s are open everyday except Christmas and happily give customers a tour of the building, the whole production process with of course some essential taste testing.  There is a restaurant onsite to enjoy your ale with some local food.



Little Creatures Brewery at Fremantle, Western Australia
Little Creatures Brewery at Fremantle, Western Australia





Crocodile Meat

For a taste of unique Australian cuisine which is very popular and now even catching on overseas is crocodile meat. It is a succulent white meat with a texture of fish but a taste similar to chicken. There are so many delicious recipes and ways to try this unique meat to suit your tastebuds. Native to the Northern Territory,  this something that you have to try when visitng.

It is a great source of nutrients as it is high in protein and best when cooked in the same manner as lean pork or chicken. 



Crocodile Skewers, Northern Territory
Crocodile Skewers, Northern Territory



Tasmania Salmon

Tasmania is truly a seafood lover’s haven place. There are multiple competitions and exhibitions for enthusiast to showcase and try Tasmania’s foods including the Hobart Fine Food Awards. Surrounded by ocean it produces the high quality Tasmania Salmon. Rich in omega-3 and countless other health benefits this delicacy is one healthy local treat.

It can be served raw, slightly salted, smoked and of course cooked to your taste.  It is used highly in sushi and other Asian cuisine. There is the option of both saltwater or seawater depends on preference. Another delicacy is the Tasmanian caviar which highly regarded around the world. 



Tasmanian Salmon, Tasmania
Tasmanian Salmon, Tasmania



3 August 2012

Top 5 Spooky Spots in Australia

Port Arthur, Tasmania  
Take a lantern-lit Historic Ghost Tour of the World Heritage listed site of Port Arthur by night and be guided on a mysteriously intriguing historical journey.

Learn of bizarre occurrences among the darkened ruins and heritage buildings where convicts, settlers and soldiers once walked. There is almost two centuries of documented sightings and reports of paranormal activity.

Port Arthur, Tasmania credit Peter Luxton
Port Arthur, Tasmania credit Peter Luxton

Old Melbourne Gaol
Once home to dangerous criminals, petty offenders, the homeless and the mentally ill, the Old Melbourne Goal is now a popular tourist attraction where you can step back in time and walk the road to the gallows of the 19th century prison.

Between 1842 and its closure in 1929 the gaol was the scene of 133 hangings including that of Australia’s most infamous citizen, Ned Kelly.

Take a Ghost Tour by night and you could become of the many who have witnessed paranormal occurrences, or take the Hangman’s Night Tour and learn the stories of the ‘rope master’.

St Helena Island, Brisbane
St Helena Island National Park historic area once functioned as a high-security colonial prison from 1867, and was home to hundreds of society’s outcasts.

It was a tough life on St Helena, where severe punishments such as lashings, dark underground cells, gagging, and energy-sapping shot drill did not go astray.

Ghost tours of St Helena are taken by night, but be prepared for the unexpected at the island’s cemetery.

Brisbane, Queensland
Brisbane, Queensland
The Rocks, Sydney
Take a tour of The Rocks in Sydney to hear true stories of murder, suicide, hangings, hauntings and ghosts as you journey along the cobblestone lanes.

From the earliest history of the settlement, the area had a reputation as a slum, often frequented by visiting sailors and prostitutes. During the late nineteenth century, the area was dominated by gangs and maintained a rough reputation until the 1870’s.

Many of the sites on The Rocks Ghost Tour have had recent reports of sightings and strange phenomena, where you may encounter shades of the dead lingering amongst the living.

The Rocks, Sydney
The Rocks, Sydney

Fremantle Arts Centre, Western Australia
Built in 1867, the Fremantle Arts Centre is said to be the most haunted place in the Southern Hemisphere, mainly because of the amount of sightings people have had there.

Originally a mental asylum, it was condemned in 1900 after two deaths and a Government inquiry, though its patients weren’t relocated until 1909.

Ghost tours taken by night will prove paranormal activity is abundant in the old gothic-style building, which is said to be haunted by at least 10 restless spirits.   

Fremantle, Western Australia


1 August 2012

For the Golfer in You



Finding a holiday destination to satisfy everyone in the family is difficult. Especially when one person’s activity requires a space of land fit to build multiple houses. Luckily now there are places which accommodate for the golfer as well as everyone else at an absolute impeccable standard. Perfect for the whole family, groups, just everyone!

Cyprus Lakes Resort, New South Wales
 
Cyprus Lakes Resort is situated in the middle of the picturesque Hunter Valley. It is a golf and spa sanctuary, nestled in the vineyards surrounded by Australian bushland and mature gardens. It has countless activities to cater for everyone’s agenda including tennis courts, horse riding, a swimming pool, biking riding and hot air ballooning. To indulge yourself try the Golden Door Spa which is the ultimate recovery, renewal and rejuvenation experience.

To satisfy the golf enthusiast there is a separate championship class Cyprus Lakes Golf & Country Club. It has an 18-hole course as well as other courses and lessons are available. An annual competition, Jack Newton Celebrity Classic, is held which has been running for 5 years already.

There are multiple opportunities to explore the Hunter Valley through the Shadow Wine Country Tours which looks at the history, the cellars and vineyards as well as other tours which go through all the wineries.

View at Cyrus Lakes Resort, New South Wales
View at Cyrus Lakes Resort, New South Wales




Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales


Mixing business and pleasure is difficult however at the newly built Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort it has been taken care of.

Situated on 95-hectares of bushland it has every facility or service possible for you to enjoy your stay whilst covering business. It has an indoor heated lap pool, outdoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, tennis courts, a children's playground and of course an 18-hole golf course. This makes it a family friendly and entertaining resort for everyone.

To receive the full pampering package there is the award winning Endota Day Spa. Its signature ‘drenched’ treatment incorporates local resources and natural methods such as river salt and the desert lime body cleaner.

Satisfy your tastebuds at the Karinyas Restaurant and Wine Bar overlooking the stunning championship golf course and wetlands.


Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales
Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales


 

Peppers Moonak Links Resrt, Victoria


Less than an hour from Melbourne Peppers Moonak Links Resort is the perfect place for the golf enthusiast who wants to combine luxury and relaxation. Settled within the Mornington Peninsular, it is a area of sheer beauty to explore with over 50 wineries, countless beaches, Cape Schanck National Park and picturesque villages everywhere.

If one golf course wasn’t enough Moonak has 2 championship 18-hole courses to accommodate for all levels. It hosted the 2005 Australian Open Championship.

For the more adventurous there is horse riding along the famous Gunnamatta beach or swimming with the dolphins in Port Phillip Bay. After a long day on the green you can enjoy local produce cuisine at Pebbles Restaurant which prepares an Australian menu whilst overlooking the pristine course. For the absolute experience Moonak has an Endota Spa to completely relax, rejuvenate and pamper you.



Peppers Moonak Links Resort, Victoria
Peppers Moonak Links Resort, Victoria



Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales


Want a relaxed golfing holiday where everyone can come including the 4 legged friends then Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast has exactly that.

This bed and breakfast is definitely not one to compensate in luxury or comfort. Bonville is the best place to receive a good night sleep in a peaceful, quite and country atmosphere to refresh you for the following day’s activities.

Only 2km from the award winning Bonville Golf Resort named most beautiful golf course in Australia. It has 72-par championship courses and provides all services and facilities needed to play world class games.

Located in pictorial surroundings Bonville is encompassed by copious towns and beaches to explore especially the iconic Coffs Harbour.



Entrace at Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales
Entrace at Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales


 

Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania

Country Club Tasmania is the epitome of relaxation and something for everyone. Located in lush parkland of Launceston, Tasmania is a true oasis for dinning, entertainment and accommodation.

It has a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets including 4 and 5 star rooms and multiple villas. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants, bistros and cafes to cater for your appetite and accounts. Some includes the Links Café, Villa Italiana, Bolters pizzeria and Watergarden all using local produce and overlooking the spectacular scenery.


The facilities at Country Club are truly one of a kind. There are all the typical amenities such as pools, tennis courts and saunas though they exceed this by providing horse riding through the local bushland, trout fishing and natural therapies. Tours can be booked to discover the wonderful state of Tasmania and all its beauty.

Onsite there is a boutique casino for all the risk-seekers or to enjoy a good night out. All year round there is live entertainment from acts to be enjoyed by everyone including singing and comedy held in the Tonic Bar or Country Club Tasmania Room.  Topped off with an 18-hole championship golf course part of the Prospect Vale Golf Club providing all the obstacles needed to challenge and improve your skills.  


Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania
Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania



Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland

If you want to receive the royal treatment then Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast is the place to enjoy as it has the majestic touch of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Phillip who stayed in 2002.

This resort is the ideal match of beach and bonding time with the family. It is situated on the Sunshine Coast just an hour from Brisbane surrounded by an abundance of attractions including Australia Zoo and Eumundi Markets as well as local bushland and beaches.

The 18-hole golf course is located on the beautiful tranquil grounds and designed by internationally renowned golf architects especially to enjoy and challenge golf enthusiast.

The Kidz Cove kids club keeps the children entertained all day and night will ample activities and resoruces. Allowing adults to enjoy the Lagoon Day Spa with a private water view to completely indulge and invigorate the body and mind.

Novotel provides some unique experiences including Australia’s first All Terrain Segway Xperience an adventure activity where you can explore the entire property on 2 wheels. For the more daring there is a Cirque Escape which is a circus school teaching skills including juggling, static trapeze, flying trapeze, tight wire and bungee trampoline.

There are countless eateries for all your needs and times of the day.


Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland



24 July 2012

Get your heart pumping around Australia

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland
Cairns is one the most popular destinations in Queensland known for its beautiful beaches and of course holds one of the great wonders of the world - The Great Barrier Reef.

Imagine experiencing and seeing all of Cairns' attractions at once by completing a Tandem Skydive and seeing a full birds eye view of the region's attractions. Get the adrenaline rushing by  jumping 15, 000 ft and free falling for over 60 seconds. It is the fastest human powered sport on earth, reaching speeds of up to 200 kph. An experienced Tandem Master travels with you all the way, providing a 20 minute debrief, training and instructions prior to the departure. Anyone can participate, no experience necessary.

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland
Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney
Want to follow in the footsteps of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith? Then a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb could be for you. It is 3.5 hour journey to the top of one of the most famous bridges in the world. A full 360 degrees view of this breath taking city spanning from the Sydney Opera House to the Blue Mountains. Travel with a group of 12 plus an instructor any time of the day, from the early sunrise tour to the magic dusk tours where the city lights sparkle. Upon reaching the summit you can have your photo taken of this unforgettable experience.

Concurring the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney
Concurring the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney
Jet Boat Thrill Ride, Sydney
Don’t mind getting a bit wet and wild then Oz Jet Boating is the experience for you. Set in the famous Sydney Harbour this thrilling ride will combine both sight seeing of iconic landmarks such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo plus a range of spins, slides and power break stops on the renowned Red Shark Boat. The 30 minute adventure will fulfil your need for speed as well having a unique experience of Sydney from the water.

Red Shark Boat on Sydney Harbour, Sydney
Red Shark Boat on Sydney Harbour, Sydney
Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne
Located less than 2.5 hours from Melbourne Otway Fly Treetops Adventures is a fun, adventurous ride fit for the whole family. Choose between walking amongst the treetops canopy or for the more daring abseil your way through Mountain Ash. These 30 metre high structures are a lovely way to experience and observe the forest from another angle. For 3.5 hours you can leave your fear behind and absorb the fresh air of the beautiful Otway forest. This is perfect for group bookings and family outings.

Family Friendly Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne
Family Friendly Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne

Hot Air Ballooning, Brisbane
Up, Up and Away…  See Brisbane and all its beauty at the awakening morning with a Hot Air Balloon ride. Starting at 5am this is a unique experience floating over the Gold Coast hinterland which spectacular sights of beautiful forests and beaches. After your flight the team will whist you away to an exclusive champagne breakfast at O'Reilly's Grand Homestead & Vineyard. This is the perfect balance of thrills and frills to start a magical day. 

Hot Air Ballooning in the Gold Coast hinterland. Brisbane
Hot Air Ballooning in the Gold Coast hinterland. Brisbane





22 July 2012

Quiet Summer Retreats Around Australia

Hatchers Richmond Manor
Located 20 minutes from Hobart, Hatchers Richmond Manor is a modern day old fashioned hideaway. This family run business which is settled on 100 acre working farm and orchard is just remarkable and truly an insight into the process of fresh produce to the finished good. You can sample the domestic wines and witness the harvesting process in January. Take a horse-drawn carriage around the property on the famous Clydesdale horses. With a variety of comfy home style rooms on the panoramic acreage it is perfect for the family to relax and enjoy what nature has to offer.

Clydesdale Horses at Hatcher Richmond Manor, Tasmania
Clydesdale Horses at Hatcher Richmond Manor, Tasmania
Cradle Mountain Chateau
Cradle Mountain Chateau is an absolutely breathtaking destination situated in the serene alpine woodland setting of Cradle Mountain. Near is the world-heritage Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park which has some spectacular bush walks and look outs to explore that lead to the gorgeous Dove Lake. You can explore the surroundings and local cuisines by participating in regional beer tasting and complimentary foods, Tasmania’s Tiger exhibition and Night time Animal exploration. Onsite there are multiple dining areas including The Grey Gum, Quoll’s Restaurant and Brushtails Bar which provide warm hearty meals all from local produce to match the rugged atmosphere. You will definitely find a warm burning fireplace to rug up next to and enjoy the spectacular views. 

Picturesque Cradle Mountain Chateau, Tasmania
Picturesque Cradle Mountain Chateau, Tasmania
Chardonnay Lodge
For the fine food and wine lover you need to enter paradise at Chardonnay Lodge in the heart of the Coonawarra Vineyards midway between Adelaide and Melbourne is the pinnacle to places to go. With a modern and modest feel and ample landscape ground to wonder it is perfect for families and anyone who needs a quite and relaxed getaway. Some attractions and facilities include a pool, the world heritage listed Naracoorte Caves, Blue Lake, Penola and the Mary MacKillop Centre.


Across the road is The Poplars Cellar Door Precinct which is an enjoyable location featuring a cheese bar and local produce store. It has an award winning onsite art gallery which displays the works of Australia born artist Jenny Johnson and others. This is an easy going, relaxing destination perfect to unwind and appreciate the local produce and wine. 

Chardony Lodge, South Australia
Chardony Lodge, South Australia
Bloomfield Lodge
If you want to experience Cairns in a picturesque, quiet sanctuary then Bloomfield Lodge is the place to escape. Located 140m north of Cairns, in the world heritage listed Daintree Forest also boarder line with The Great Barrier Reef this is a match made in heaven. You can indulge in the breathtaking scenery of either water or wilderness and experience all the beauty Cairns has to offer. With ample relaxation facilities and actractions to discover including the secluded Kangaji Beach, it has something for everyone.

The 17 individual retreats all built from local timber with colonial-style elegance and first class amenities really embraces and displays the natural heavenly surroundings. 

View from balcony at Bloomfield Lodge, Cairns
View from balcony at Bloomfield Lodge, Queensland
Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris
If you want to experience nature it is natural form and to learn and enjoy Australia’s history then Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris is a great destination. Situated in an exclusive area of the Northern Territory on the sacred Arnhemland it is truly an escape from the busy city and  allow yourself to unwind. This national treasure chest has countless experiences and activities including guided tours through ancestral caves with stunning original rock paintings and carving. It also accommodates for the more adventurous by providing bushwalks, 4WD adventures, wildlife spotting through the adjacent Kakadu National Park as well as fishing and swimming.

There is a variety of accommodation from luxury to earthly options of campfire cabins. No matter where you are you will see and appreciate the beautiful wilderness and atmosphere of this sacred land. 

Cabins at Davidson's Arnhemland Safari Lodge, Northern Territory
Cabins at Davidson's Arnhemland Safari Lodge, Northern Territory
Eco Beach Broome
Eco Beach Broome is a lovely quite escape hidden at the top of Wester Australia near Broome. This award winning resort is the perfect blend of beach and bush referred to as an ‘accessible wilderness’.

The modern and stylish accommodation located right on the beach front and a backyard of bushland really captures all of Northern Territory’s beauty. You can explore the remarkable wilderness by participating in turtle and whale spotting and talking, multiple bushwalks, kayaking and end the day with yoga or a Kimberly Taste where you try some local delicacies. Another unique and fun activity is the Mud ‘n’ Fun which is a natural local treatment comprising of sand exfoliation and covering yourself in mud crab mud.

Beach and Bush blend at Eco Beach, Western Australia
Beach and Bush blend at Eco Beach, Western Australia
After a long day of adventure and exploring you can reenergise at Jack’s Bar & Restaurant. It is an onsite water coastline restaurant providing outstanding cuisine looking at a picturesque view. 
Outstanding Cuisine at Jack's Bar & Restaurant
Outstanding Cuisine at Jack's Bar & Restaurant


For assistance booking your Australian holiday call Sunlover Holidays on 13 88 33.

21 July 2012

Quirky places to stay in Australia

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn – Kakadu, Northern Territory
The Gagudju Holiday Inn at Jabiru is situated in the heart of Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, and is one of the few World Heritage areas listed for both cultural and natural heritage.

What’s quirky about this hotel is its unique structure - in the shape of a big green crocodile. The crocodile jaws make the hotel entrance, which leads to a billabong like foyer.
Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn is situated just two and a half hours from Darwin, and is the ideal base to explore Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art galleries plus view the towering sandstone escarpment of Arnhem Land. 

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn - Kakadu
Desert Cave Hotel – Coober Pedy, South Australia
The Desert Cave Hotel, situated in Coober Pedy, is best known for offering the opportunity to sleep in an underground hotel. You can enjoy the surrounds of the beautifully formed natural sandstone surrounds as you stay in this oasis in the desert.

Since 1915 Coober Pedy became famous for those seeking the elusive opal, but the locals found it more comfortable living in dugouts or underground homes to escape the sweltering all temperature above ground. The earth gives natural temperature control for cool, quiet living in this semi desert area of outback South Australia. 

Desert Cave Hotel - Coober Pedy
The Henry Jones Art Hotel – Hobart, Tasmania
The Henry Jones Art Hotel is Australia’s first and only dedicated art hotel. The hotel, situated neatly upon Hobart’s glorious waterfront, is a former IXL jam factory dating from the 1820’s that has been transformed into a luxurious first class hotel showcasing the work of Tasmania’s finest artists.

Located on Hobart’s Victoria dock, most of the 56 rooms have water views, and the hotel's decor offers an ingenious mix of contemporary design elements with traditional building structures and artworks, designed by award winning architects.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel - Hobart
Reefworld – The Great Barrier Reef
Don't miss the chance to stay overnight on Australia’s most remarkable natural landmark, The Great Barrier Reef with Reefsleep, located on Cruise Whitsundays Reefworld pontoon.

The Reefsleep features two types of air-conditioned accommodation, both with ensuite bathrooms: a luxurious king-size room ideal for couples or honeymooners and a bunk-style quad room for friends, family or other guests. Accommodation also includes sunset beverages, gourmet al fresco dinner with wine, full breakfast, buffet lunch, scuba dive or guided snorkelling safari. Optional activities include the underwater viewing chamber, waterslide, helicopter tours and massages.

This unique and unforgettable experience allows guests to enjoy the unique solitude and tranquillity of this World Heritage listed site over two days and one night. 

Reefsleep - Reefworld Pontoon

Peppers Convent – Hunter Valley, New South Wales
Peppers Convent in Australia’s world famous Hunter Valley wine country in New South Wales, is a romantic retreat that was once home to the Brigidine Order of Nuns.

Built in 1909, Peppers Convent offers 17 deluxe rooms, restored to reflect the buildings charming heritage and character. The buildings interior has been infused with a French Baroque flavour, illuminated through the constant symbol of cherubs, angels, gilt and toils du jour window furnishings, mixed with a distinctive character of an Australian country guest house.

Peppers Convent is surrounded by some of the best boutique wineries and restaurants the Hunter Valley has on offer, specifically the Pepper Tree wine tasting barn and renowned Roberts Restaurant.

Peppers Convent – Hunter Valley 

Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel – Launceston, Tasmania
The Penny Royal Hotel is a boutique property that offers modern facilities just a 5 minute walk to Launceston's city centre. Originally built as a corn mill in 1840, it was moved 54 kilometres to Launceston and was rebuilt as a hotel over 130 years later.

This unique traditional style hotel offers motel rooms as well as apartments, all with a distinctive heritage atmosphere. The rooms have recently been fully refurbished and are well appointed with all the modern comforts, while still retaining a unique heritage atmosphere. 

Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel – Launceston