After scooping a number of awards from Conde Nast Traveller over the last few years, qualia is making waves across the globe for its breathtaking views, unparalleled service and mind-boggling (but worth selling a kidney for) prices.
Regularly hailed as one of the best resorts in the Southern Hemisphere, qualia excels in level of service from the moment you step off the plane onto Hamilton Island. With luggage transfers taken care of, cold towels to mop your brow provided and a luxury, chauffer-driven transfer taking you straight to the resort, it’s hard not to feel like royalty. Step out of your car and you’ll be greeted by waiting staff offering a glass of champagne (pass on the soft drink option) to sip as you enjoy one of the most incredible check-in experiences you’re ever likely to have. Offering unrivalled views of the dramatic island landscapes rising out of the water, reception’s floor to ceiling windows guarantee you’ll struggle to pay attention to anything but the incredible vistas as far as the eye can see, punctuated only by occasional kookaburras and cockatoos perching on nearby trees.
If you can drag yourself away to your pavilion, you won’t be disappointed. Each room offers jaw-dropping views from every water-facing wall; you’ll be lucky enough to enjoy the wildlife and endless seascapes from the bed, the bath, the kitchen, your balcony and even your plunge pool – if you can afford the hefty upgrade. If you can’t, fear not. The infinity pool is the perfect Instagram fodder, and its restaurant and bar is the perfect place for a cocktails and a light lunch. Looking to make a serious dent in your credit card? qualia’s ten course tasting menu is for you.
For those after a trip based around more than just eating, sunbathing and snorkelling, qualia offers complimentary water sports from Pebble Beach – the perfect place to learn to sail a Catamaran or kayak. Fancy splashing the cash? Why not treat your loved one to a helicopter ride over the reef to Whitehaven Beach, one of the best beaches in the world? The white, silica sand reflects all heat, so no burned soles, and squeaks as you walk. If you visit during April, you may also be lucky enough to experience the butterfly migration which takes place on the beach, playing host to literally thousands of them fluttering around you; an incredible sight.
If you’re an animal lover, head to WILD LIFE Hamilton where you can get up close and personal with kangaroos, wallabies and alligators, and even have breakfast with the resident koalas (if you can handle the 6.30am wake up call). Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy world-class snorkelling and diving given the resort’s location in the Great Barrier Reef, making it the perfect place to swim with whale sharks, turtles, tropical fish and manta rays.
qualia offers complimentary golf buggies throughout your stay (as long as you have a valid driving licence), which enable you to zip around the whole island to explore what else is on offer. Don’t leave Hamilton Island until you’ve enjoyed the breathtaking sunsets at One Tree Hill, relaxed on Catseye Beach and practised your swing at the golf driving range.