A luxurious experience doesn’t always mean super-expensive. Here we reveal Australia’s lesser-known gems for an overnight stay, all offering a different take on luxury, from private islands to little-known truffle farms. Makepeace Island, Noosa, Queensland The heart-shaped Makepeace Island, bought by Sir Richard Branson and Brett Godfrey (former CEO of Virgin Australia) more than 20 years ago is practically a veteran on Australia’s most luxurious stays list.
However, outdated it is not. An extensive revamp in 2018 blasted its Balinese-inspired good looks into the modern day. For all those who crave a private island to themselves, but don’t want to feel as deserted as Robinson Crusoe, Makepeace is only 10 minutes by private boat from Noosa Heads.
Accommodating up to 20 guests spread across the four-bedroom Island House, a handful of separate villas and The Boathouse, a stand-alone hideout straddling the river, there’s also a pool, spa, tennis court, gymnasium and various water toys such as paddleboards and kayaks to entertain. Your chef is the multi-award-winning Zeb Gilbert and your days are free to be spent as you wish. makepeaceisland.
com Satellite Island, Tasmania You won’t find anything more rugged and remote than Satellite Island in the south of Tasmania. It’s here you’ll find a sanctuary of complete calm for you and a maximum of seven other absconding guests. Accessed via a five-minute boat crossing from Bruny Island, once you’re here, there’s nothin.