Family Experiences

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is the quintessential Australian bush experience, offering an extraordinary range of activities incorporating the 7000 acre conservation area, abundant wildlife including sightings of rare albino wallaroos, mountain biking, horse-riding, superb spa for adults, and arrangements for children while parents have a romantic dinner. Extra activities for children include bush craft, archery and kite flying.

Wolgan Rangers

A range of nature-based activities have been developed for children to discover Wolgan Valley and the Greater Blue Mountains region. The program includes a broad range of fun outdoor and indoor activities inspired by the natural environment. Activity themes include bush survival, Australian animals and birds, fossil hunting, adventure hikes, bugs and insects, water worlds, yabbying, arts and crafts, orienteering and archery. The program is influenced by the weather and seasonal conditions as well as the ages and special interests of the children participating. The program is perfect for children eight to 12 years of age, however younger children are welcome to attend. The minimum age is three years and children under five years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participation is complimentary.

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Children’s Horse Riding

Enjoy a guided tour though the stables and meet some of Wolgan Valley’s friendly horses. Their horses come in various shapes and sizes; from the gentle giant ‘Marshmallow’ to the small horse with a big personality, ‘Nero’. Guides will assist you to feed the horses some of their favourite treats and will provide an insight into the operations of the horse-riding program.

Wolgan Valley and the Blue Mountains were made for riding and this is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the region’s beautiful hills, creeks and ridgelines than on horseback. There is a range of horse riding experiences to choose from: an introductory arena ride, a 90-minute trail ride or a tailored half-day journey in the surrounding valley.

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Saffire’s range of activities gives your family options for every mood and every moment. Guided or self-guided bushwalks, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, kite-flying, bird-watching, archery, beach games, board games, mountain bikes, cooking demonstrations, the list goes on. Lasting from one hour to three hours, these activities are your opportunity to engage and connect with Freycinet’s stunning natural wonders and attractions. Adventure, relaxation, rejuvenation or exploration, the complimentary experiences and activities add great depth and dimension to a family stay in Tasmania.

Tasmanian Devil Experience

The Tasmanian Devil Experience offers families the rare opportunity to encounter Tasmanian devils in a natural setting, and to participate in the quest to save this endangered species from extinction.

Led by Saffire’s knowledgeable guides, guests can visit Saffire’s open range Tasmanian devil enclosure and meet some of the resident population of Tasmanian devils, observing them as they feed and interact. Guests will hear the story of the Tasmanian devil—the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial — and the crucial effort to find a cure for Tasmanian Devil Facial Tumour Disease. Guests also have the chance to contribute to Saffire’s management and observation of the devil population by participating in a visual health inspection of the devils. They will learn how to recognize individual devils, and use direct observation and remote camera imagery to identify and check each of our resident animals. Guests will also learn of the vital work of the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program and the critical research of the Menzies Institute and discover how they can be a part of the ongoing work to secure the survival of this important species.

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Pelican Bay Canoeing and Bird-Watching

Unwind and absorb the breathtaking beauty of the Swanport estuary on this guided canoeing adventure at the mouth of the internationally significant Moulting Lagoon wetland. Observe the flocks of pelicans and gaze into the crystal clear waters teeming with marine life. Have the budding photographer in the family capture some incredible scenery and wildlife moments.

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The sun and tide set the pace at Sal Salis, Ningaloo Reef. This is where the reef comes closest to the Australian mainland – and Sal Salis is located right on the edge of the dunes just steps form the water. The camp is a haven for snorkeling, fishing, exploring the reef straight from the beach and the highlight experience, swimming with the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark (April to July), or Humpback Whales (August to October). At high tide take gentle stroll up the beach, dodging Soldier Crabs, before drift snorkelling back along the inner edge of the reef.  Or kayak out to the Blue Lagoon, a 5 metre deep natural aquarium where huge schools of fish, reef sharks and turtles swim amongst the coral formations. Then after dinner you might like to do a little star-gazing and learn of the constellations that fill our southern skies. Ningaloo is a major breeding ground for Hawksbill, Loggerhead and Green Turtles, which lay their eggs on the beach at night. The camp and activities are suitable for children over the age of five years. 

Swim with the Whale Sharks

Ningaloo is also acknowledged as the best place in the world to swim with the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark, as these gentle giants migrate through every year between April and July.  Sal Salis offers whale shark swims with select local partners and your family can expect an up-close-and-personal view of these gentle giants.  Your whale shark experience begins with transferring you to Tantabiddi Boat Ramp (about 25 minutes drive) where you will meet your experienced skipper and crew for the day.  Morning tea is usually served as you motor out into the Indian Ocean to being the search, this is aided by a spotter aircraft that relays sightings to the skipper.  The crew will help you get kitted out in wetsuits and snorkel gear, they will also provide a thorough briefing. A delicious lunch featuring fresh Western Australian produce is provided. During the course of the day your crew will keep an eye out for turtles, dolphins, dugongs, rays and sea birds and there is usually time for a snorkel at the back of the Reef. From August 2016, swimming with humpback whales is also a ‘bucket list’ highlight for guests at Sal Salis.

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Snorkelling and Beach Play

Stretching for 260kms along Australia’s west coast, the World Heritage Ningaloo Reef is the world’s longest fringing coastal reef and remains one of Australia’s best kept natural secrets. A big advantage for families is the coral is within swimming distance of the beach; Sal Salis’ house reef is no more than 10m offshore (at high tide) so no boats or transfers are required! There are numerous picturesque beaches offering stunning drift snorkels and sheltered bays where children can play. A drift snorkel just a few metres offshore reveals a wealth of life, with huge staghorn coral formations, anemones, clownfish, rays and sponge gardens. All snorkelling gear and wet suits are provided; and if you are a beginner (or just needing a refresher) their guides will be happy to give a lesson or just share a few tips. Ningaloo is also a major breeding ground for hawksbill, loggerhead and green turtles, which come ashore to lay their eggs in the dunes at night (between September and December). 

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Just ten guests at a time share this remote 60,000 acre private wildlife conservancy dedicated to the conservation Australia’s unique wildlife and birds. Mobs of kangaroos, emus and other abundant wildlife delight families on open-top safari drives through the spectacular ancient landscape, while expert guides deliver a unique tourism experience where guests get to touch, smell, and hear the stories of the environment. With only 5 rooms, the best way to experience Arkaba as a family is with an exclusive use stay, either with another family or on your own.  Under this option, the guides will run bush immersion programs for the family that include species identification, tracking wildlife, setting camera traps for key species, radio tracking feral species, orienteering in the bush, astronomy, learning how to toast the perfect marshmallow over the camp fire. Arkaba accepts children of 8 years and above. 

Wild Bush Family

The team at Wild Bush Luxury believe that connecting children to the bush is fundamental to their education. Field guides immerse children with stories from the bush while the big kids relax in breathtaking surrounds and enjoy all the adult-comforts you adore! Activities may include orienteering using a map and compass, gathering native herbs to make traditional damper bread, species identification and they’ll learn how to track wildlife using their habits and behaviours. Setting camera traps or radio tracking feral species, or maybe even making their own sundial.

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Silky Oaks Lodge and Healing Waters Spa is located in a stunning riverside location adjoining one of the oldest living rainforests the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park, and is an ideal base from which families can explore Far North Queensland. Children over the age of 8 are welcomed at this friendly tropical rainforest retreat. Canoeing, river snorkeling or paddling, goanna spotting, biking, hot air ballooning, guided walks or followed by a swim in the river are just some of the activities available at the lodge for children.

Great Barrier Reef

Calypso (Snorkel & Dive) is a full day excursion and an ideal way for the family to experience and be educated on the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Calypso is a new wide bodied catamaran that is fitted with an environmentally friendly engine. The Calypso has a unique reef experience for every guest with three site visits daily and caters for all levels of diving experience. With an experienced crew guiding guests through the many activities from diving, snorkeling or exploring the beach, providing an insight into the local marine biology and surrounding environment.

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Kuku Yalanji Cultural Tours

A tour with the indigenous Walker brothers exploring the nearby beach mangroves and partaking in traditional hunting and gathering practices with the Yalanji people on their Cultural Habitat Walk is another most popular family experience.

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With over one third of the total area protected by National and conservation parks, it’s no wonder that Kangaroo Island is often dubbed Australia’s Galapagos or ‘the zoo without fences’. Children ten years and over are welcome at Southern Ocean Lodge – the world-celebrated luxury wilderness lodge on Kangaroo Island. Families will be able to see fur seals lolling around Admirals Arch, koalas clinging to trees at Hanson Bay Sanctuary, waves crashing against the island’s shoreline, and rock formations that will take your breath away. Special family friendly activities include kayaking, beach fishing, and sand boarding.

Wonders of Kangaroo Island

This half-day experience is a spectacular introduction for families to Kangaroo Island’s wildlife, maritime heritage and stunning coastal landscapes and takes full advantage of the Lodge’s unique location. Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and a fur seal colony are just some of the trip highlights. Wander amongst the rare Cape Barren Geese and search the leafy eucalypts for a sleepy koala.

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Family Fun

Enjoy some good old-fashioned family fun with sand boards, fishing gear and a ‘cuppa’ packed to go. This active morning or afternoon activity heads to the heights of the pure white sand dunes at Little Sahara for thrill-seeking antics for all on sand boards and toboggans. There is also time for a fish in the pristine waters (a great test for anglers) and tea-break enjoyed among the elements.

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Children ten years and over are welcome at this contemporary beach-house style lodge on the tiny island paradise Lord Howe, it’s World Heritage-listed and home to the world’s southern- most coral reef. Families will love snorkelling to see vibrant corals and diverse marine life including anemone fish and turtles, collecting shells along white-sanded beaches, and the unforgettable experience of hand- feeding giant kingfish.

Explore The World’s Southern-most Coral Reef

World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island is home to the world’s southern-most coral reef, warmed by currents from the Coral Sea to the north. Protected by marine reserves, it harbours green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and marine invertebrates, making the island a major draw card for diving and snorkelling. Dolphins and migrating humpback whales are spotted in the surrounding seas. Marine excursions are a specialty and a choice of guides and tour operators offer expeditions for snorkelling, diving, kayaking and surfing. With neither monsoon season nor stingers, exploring the underwater world is easy year-round. Turtle spotting is a highlight, while glass-bottom boat excursions provide a view of the prolific corals and tropical fish that inhabit the sheltered waters of the lagoon. Other aquatic sports and activities available on Lord Howe Island include windsurfing, fishing, paddle boarding and kite surfing. Private guides, naturalists and boat charters are also available, and any of the island’s tour operators can be booked with the help of Capella Lodge staff.

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BBQ Islander Style

Lord Howe Island offers the relaxed freedom recalled from childhood holidays by the sea. Clean white beaches, sparkling clear waters and care-free solitude are the hallmarks of an island stay. The Island’s eleven beautiful beaches are perfectly suited to barbecuing outdoors, with their sheltered coves and spectacular views. Take advantage of one of the communal beach barbecues, set in some of the most scenic spots around the island. Cut firewood is neatly stacked at each barbecue and Capella Lodge can arrange gourmet picnic and barbecue packs for families, delivered to an idyllic spot of choice. It’s quintessential Lord Howe.

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An eco-sensitive, luxury tented resort located facing Uluru, in the spiritual heart of Australia. A great immersion for families with children over the age of 10 with Australia’s outback red centre, and its extraordinary desert landscapes. Guided walks along the base of Uluru, Camel Rides, Bush Tucker Tours, Scenic Helicopter Flights, Motorcycle Tours, outback cycling, 4WD outback adventures and stargazing are just some of the experiences on offer.

Uluru Camel Tours

Join renowned local adventure operator Uluru Camel Tours for an unforgettable journey through red dune country with Uluru and Kata Tjuta as a stunning backdrop. Most popular at sunrise and sunset, tours are guided by passionate cameleers and an energetic photographer captures the moment.

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Connection with Ernabella Arts

Essential to the experience at Longitude 131° is connecting with the creative spirit of the land’s traditional custodians, the indigenous Anangu. For the first time, a new bespoke experience offers guests at Longitude 131° an exclusive opportunity to visit the remote Ernabella Arts studio and engage with its residents. In turn, the full day private tour allows artists to share their heritage and artworks, creating a cultural connection that promises to be rich, colourful and unforgettable.

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Both on its grounds and in the spectacular surrounding region, Spicers Peak Lodge provides many opportunities to pursue leisure in and out of doors. There are a variety of experiences designed to give families access to this strikingly beautiful part of the Australian wilderness including guided aaand self guided bushwalks, mountain biking adventures, 4WD Discovery tours, star gazing, tennis and helicopter scenic flights. Explore the diversity of unique Australian flora and fauna and traverse the foothills and valleys to get up close and personal with some of the region’s very special wildlife, including the rare glossy black cockatoos, bushy tail rock wallabies and the native koala.

Spicers Peak Lodge accepts children of all ages within the following parameters: Families with children of all ages may stay in the private lodges only and with specific dining arrangements. Families with children over the age of 12 can stay in the main lodge but children under 18 cannot dine in the restaurant in the evening.

Family Picnic

Picnic hampers – Have Chef prepare a gourmet picnic hamper with champagne. The hamper can be delivered to one of many scenic picnic locations around the 8,000-acre grounds. A table can be set in the wilderness so guests can arrive at the location after a bike ride or walk to chilled champagne, stunning views and nothing to unpack.

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Bushwalking

Resting on an almost continuous belt of National Park and reserves, families are instantly rejuvenated after a short bushwalk amid the spectacular rainforest. Dedicated walking trails line the property with surrounds of unique plants, wildlife and a stunning landscape. Enjoy stunning views towards Mount Mitchell, Spicers Peak and Mount Cordeaux. More experienced hikers can try the remote and rugged trails further off the beaten track with professional guides.

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A Wild Bush Luxury safari-style camp, welcomes children over the age of 6, for a unique Top End Mary River floodplains and wetlands experience. The team at Bamurru Plains believe that connecting children to the bush is fundamental to their education. Field guides immerse children with stories from the bush while the big kids relax in breathtaking surrounds and enjoy all the adult-comforts you adore. Birdwatching, floodplain airboat tours, fishing, bushwalking, 4WD safari tours, are examples of activities on offer.

Indigenous Connections

Beautiful billabongs, panoramic escarpments and ancient rock art galleries explained through the eyes of a local on this full day adventure to Arnhem Land by scenic air transfer from Bamurru Plains. Families will experience a fascinating mixture of ancient and living culture in the small community of Gunbalanya. The day includes a visit to Injalak Hill, renowned for some of the best rock art examples in Western Arnhem Land. The view from the top of Injalak Hill is breathtaking looking out over floodplains, stone country and towering escarpments. Visit the Aboriginal owned non-profit community Injalak Arts and Craft Centre to see artists at work in one of the oldest and continuous Aboriginal communities in Australia.

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Fishing 

The Top End of Australia is renowned for its spectacular coastal floodplains, billabongs and mangrove fringed tidal rivers that empty into the Arafura Sea. In addition to its extraordinary natural beauty and its prolific wildlife, this region boasts one of the world’s great sports fish, the mighty Barramundi, both in the river systems and in the ‘run off’ on the floodplains. Bamurru Plains are committed to the sustainable fishing practice of catch and release. The prime fishing seasons are in February to May with the ‘run off’ as the fresh floodwaters from the ‘wet’ flow off the floodplains into the tidal river and creek channels and in October/November with the ‘build up’ to the wet providing fantastic fishing opportunities for families.

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The guesthouse is surrounded by natural beauty including several glorious golden beaches and picturesque sheltered bays, all easily accessible for hiking expeditions along walking trails and over coastal sandstone cliffs. Indigenous rock art by the local Darkinjung tribe features at the doorstep of the guesthouse, dating back an incredible 10,000 years. Children aged 13 years and above are welcome at this super-sophisticated private guesthouse surrounded by ancient angophoras.   Children under 13 are only catered for with an exclusive buy out of all four pavilions for one party of guests.

Coastal Bushwalking

Excursions can be as simple as a professionally guided bushwalk with many well-marked coastal walking trails in the surrounding natural wonder of the Bouddi National Park. Lobster Beach, Box Head and the surf break at Tallow Beach are all within easy walking distance. A leisurely 20 minute stroll through untouched native flora to the tip of the Aboriginal Dreaming sacred site of Box Head is breathtaking, with stunning 180 degree views of the five surrounding waterways including Broken Bay to Palm Beach and the Barenjoey light house.

Indigenous Connections

Pretty Beach House is located in the serene and quintessentially Australian bushland setting of the Bouddi National Park. The word ‘Bouddi’ is the local Aboriginal name for the eastern headland of Maitland Bay and has become synonymous with the national park and the surrounding area. It has various meanings in local Aboriginal languages, and is thought to mean ‘heart’ or ‘water breaking over rocks’. There is even aboriginal artwork dating back almost 10,000 years right on the doorstep to Pretty Beach House. Learn ancient dreamtime stories told by traditional landowners and Aboriginal elders at 6pm nightly, during the welcome smoking ceremony, incorporating dance & didgeridoo around a crackling fire.

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El Questro tours and activities form an integral part of every visit to the property. The Homestead offers a wide range of complimentary excursions that provide opportunities for guests to fully immerse in the natural attractions of the Wilderness Park. The homestead welcomes children over the age of 12. Surrounding The Homestead, a rich green lawn sweeps down to a pool overlooking the stunning Chamberlain Gorge. Soak in the Zebedee Thermal Springs, cruise private gorges, rivers and waterfalls, explore from the air, horseride or hike the terrain on foot.

Private Chamberlain Cruise

Boating through the Chamberlain Gorge is a must. An El Questro ranger will take your family on a private cruise of this 3 km fresh waterhole in the Homestead’s private “dinghy”. Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna; resident Rock Wallabies, Johnston Crocodiles and the always-cheeky Archer Fish are familiar inhabitants of the gorge.

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Zebedee Thermal Springs

Exclusive use of Zebedee Springs is offered to Homestead guests every afternoon. Let an El Questro Ranger drive you in style to the most secluded of hideaways. Take a short walk through dense, tropical vegetation to a series of thermal pools and small waterfalls. Set amongst a backdrop of sheer cliffs and Livistonia palms, Zebedee Springs is a magical place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day.

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With 24 powdery-white sand beaches and 40 luxurious suites, Lizard Island is the most northern resort in tropical Queensland and is located directly on the Great Barrier Reef. The island is reserved for the fortunate few who will experience an unforgettable luxury holiday and welcomes children over the age of 10. Families visiting Lizard Island Resort can enjoy an extensive range of activities including snorkelling directly off a private beach, as well as the unlimited use of non-motorised water sports and motorised dinghies.

Snorkelling and Diving

The only resort on the island, Lizard Island guests have access to some of the best diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, one of the great wonders of the natural world. Boasting its own fringing reefs, Lizard Island has the advantage of being able to offer diving enthusiasts both half and full day reef experiences with short boat rides to some of the world’s best diving sites, including the world famous Cod Hole and giant clam garden. The resort’s guides can drop families to secluded beaches for picnics or arrange dives on the outer reef.

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Family Time

Families with children 6 years and over are welcome at Lizard Island during their regular Family Time periods. Treat your family to a luxurious holiday at a place uninterrupted by the rest of the world. A range of daily Junior Rangers activities will allow your children to explore the unique Great Barrier Reef environment and special menus will delight. Take advantage of the babysitting service and escape to a deserted beach and spoil yourself with a gourmet picnic hamper. Relax and enjoy your day on the beach with not a care in the world.

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Lake House offers little people menus and a games room for rainy days. Families are welcomed to enjoy the bounty of this regional food mecca and large range of activities for all ages. Taking in the picturesque surrounds of Lake Daylesford and the Wombat State Forest is a glorious benefit for in house guests at Lake House. Small touches in the new Suites include birdwatching books which help guests to recognise the many beautiful examples of local wildlife that can be viewed on the property and even from the comfort of your suite, with binoculars provided.

Feed the Kookaburras

What started as the taming of one injured bird has turned into a daily ritual between the team at Lake House and the most friendly feathered “locals”. The resident kookaburras fly in twice a day for a gourmet meal and are fed on the waterfront terraces of the Lake House Restaurant in the early afternoon. Kingfish, freshwater trout, eel, sometimes a few wagyu offcuts… these are certainly very well fed “locals”. Families are welcome to hand feed the birds.

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Exploration and adventure is the very essence of a True North cruise and an experience of a lifetime at any age. True North welcomes families, however, being a ‘floating’ lodge, under maritime regulation all passengers (including babies) are considered ‘berthed passengers’. For guests wishing to book a child under the age of 12 years should be advised that there are no dedicated child minding facilities onboard or provision for crew to engage in child minding activities. Adults travelling with children must accept full responsibility for their supervision, and ensure they don’t disrupt passenger enjoyment in any way.

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Cape Lodge – Margaret River – Western Australia

Positioned in the heart of the great wine region of Margaret River, Cape Lodge attracts those who are seeking a private, stylish and sophisticated retreat, and those with a yearning to discover outstanding food and wine. Children will be accommodated on the same basis as adult guests although the lodge management advises that the property and facilities are not ideal for children under 12 years of age as all rooms are designed for a maximum of 2 guests.

The Louise – Barossa Valley – South Australia

The Louise is ideal for couples looking to relax in the ambiance of a romantic hideaway retreat and enjoy a memorable dining experience in an intimate setting at Appellation restaurant. Minimum age on property is 10 years old. Guests 10 years and older are charged at adult rates. 

qualia – Great Barrier Reef – Queensland

Crystalbrook Lodge – Northern Outback Queensland – Queensland.

Is best suited for adults only, EXCEPT with a full property booking (all rooms booked by one party).