Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is an exclusive safari camp in the white sand dunes of Western Australia's Cape Range National Park.
There are just nine spacious wilderness tents a few feet from the water's edge and one of Australia's best kept natural secrets - Ningaloo Reef. The tents are on raised platforms and have comfortable beds with excellent views of the Indian Ocean, en-suite bathrooms with a compost loo and solar hot water showers.
There is a strong environmental emphasis at Sal Salis's, with the aim being to minimise guests' environmental impact on this pristine region. The tents are designed to blend in unobtrusively with the dunes and coastal scrub surrounding them, and there is also a bar and open lounge area with a small reference library - a perfect place to relax during the midday heat. Come meal time the resident chef prepares contemporary Australian cuisine using local produce and dinner is a single table affair with the other guests, guides and hosts.
Activities on offer include guided sea kayaking and snorkeling trips on the reef; wildlife viewing; guided gorge walks in the Cape Range National Park and a trip to Yardie Creek. The camp can also arrange fishing charters; whale shark swims (in season from April to July) and reef excursions for more snorkelling and diving.
Why We Love It
In the cool of the evening kangaroos and wallaroos emerge from the bush for their evening graze, often just in front of the bar.
Cape Lodge
A boutique hotel in the heart of the Margaret River wine region, Cape Lodge is set in its own vineyard.
There are 22 bedrooms and suites at Cape Lodge, all with contemporary décor and walls adorned with works of art by top Australian artists. There is also a two bedroom cottage and a five bedroom villa, perfect for families or larger groups.
The Cape Lodge restaurant is located on the lake shore, complete with over water terrace for dining under the stars. The menu relies on seasonal and fresh produce, and the wine - from the 14,000 bottle strong cellar - is superb. Guests can also do cooking classes to learn the tricks of the trade.
There are numerous activities on offer at Cape Lodge, from wine and cheese tasting tours to a kangaroo safari, scuba diving and fishing. The beach is close by, there is a swimming pool and tennis court at the lodge, and the spa offers a range of treatments.
Why We Love It
With a vineyard in the grounds, guests can be sure the wine is of top quality!
Pullman Resort Bunker Bay
Perched on the northern point of Cape Naturaliste in the Margaret River is this luxury beachfront accommodation. Luscious gardens are the setting for a series of bungalow style villas and superior facilities.
Each villa enjoys lake or garden views, is finished with natural timber and stone and has wifi access. The smaller villas have kitchenettes and direct beach access, while the 1-bed villa also has an open living area and a lakeside location. The largest, 2-bed villa, boasts a full kitchen as well as a laundry room.
Amenities include an infinity pool, sun deck, tennis courts and a spa. This award-winning relaxation centre is filled with natural light, and treatments are infused with Aboriginal wisdom, using various plants and flowers known for their healing powers.
Meals are taken in the whimsically named 'Other Side of the Moon' restaurant; the terrace is populated by olive trees and looks out to the Indian Ocean. The cuisine is distinctly Australian and relies on sustainable local produce. The bar serves lighter meals, and on Saturdays the whole family can enjoy barbecue buffet lunches.
Popular activities in the area include whale watching, caving, wine tasting, and exploring the Cape Naturaliste National Park. Alternatively, take a wildflower tour or scout out traditional crafts at the Margaret River Town Square market.
COMO The Treasury
COMO The Treasury occupies a 19th century state building in the historical heart of Perth and is the perfect base to explore the capital of Western Australia.
48 rooms and suites take on a serene and stylish theme with neutral colour schemes, European furnishings, grand king-size beds, duo bathtubs and twin vanities.
Dining at The Treasury is quite the treat; the Wildflower restaurant is one of the best in the city serving fine western produce, artistically presented, and offers marvellous views over the Swan River. For a more informal eatery, try Post on the ground floor, a neo-bistro restaurant which is characteristically small and affordable.
Facilities include a heated indoor pool, gym and COMO Shambhala wellness centre specialising in hands on holistic-treatments, yoga and Pilates. After an afternoon of rejuvenation enjoy a tipple in the snug lounge and bar.
There's an abundance of things to see and do right on the doorstep, be that indulging in local wines, exploring the Cathedral Square, shopping in Perth's chic malls or strolling along the coast at sunset. For the adrenaline seekers, take a scenic flight above the city for an aerial view and the perfect photo opp.
Why We Love It
The five course tasting menu at Wildflower restaurant, with pairings, is a must.
