Samuel Hussey of Forbes compiles a list of 15 luxury holiday stays to gift this Christmas.
Looking to give the ultimate gift this holiday season? From serene Australian escapes to breathtaking international retreats, these 15 luxury stays promise unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a bucket-list destination, Forbes Australia has carefully curated a list of stays that redefine indulgence, making them the perfect gift for someone special.
Forbes Gift List of Luxury Lodges ~
Longitude 131°, Uluru, Northern Territory
Luxury meets the outback at Longitude 131°. Set against the iconic backdrop of Uluru, this eco-sensitive resort features opulent tents with floor-to-ceiling views of the desert. Guests enjoy Indigenous-inspired cuisine, stargazing tours, and exclusive access to the region’s sacred sites.
qualia, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
qualia is the jewel of the Whitsundays. This adults-only resort features private pavilions with infinity pools overlooking the Great Barrier Reef. Relax at the award-winning spa or enjoy gourmet meals inspired by local produce. Guests can also explore nearby reefs or take a private yacht tour.
Saffire Freycinet, Coles Bay, Tasmania
Positioned near Freycinet National Park, Saffire Freycinet offers a bespoke luxury experience. Guests can shuck oysters at a working marine farm, take a guided hike through ancient landscapes, or enjoy a private picnic overlooking Great Oyster Bay. Each suite comes with panoramic views and curated local wines.
Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Southern Ocean Lodge, perched on Kangaroo Island’s rugged cliffs, offers 25 luxurious suites with panoramic Southern Ocean views. Following its destruction in the 2020 bushfires, the lodge reopened in December 2023 after a $55 million rebuild, featuring sustainable design and locally sourced materials.
Guests enjoy all-inclusive experiences, including gourmet dining that highlights Kangaroo Island’s produce and wines, guided wildlife tours, and indulgent spa treatments. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability and luxury has earned it recognition, such as being named in TIME’s World’s Greatest Places List for 2023.
El Questro Homestead, The Kimberley, Western Australia
This exclusive hideaway in the Kimberley region offers unparalleled access to rugged outback beauty. Guests enjoy private clifftop dining, thermal springs, and guided tours through ancient gorges. With just nine suites, El Questro Homestead ensures an intimate connection to nature.
To view the full international gift list, click here.
