Australia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Largely semi-arid or desert, it has a surprisingly diverse range of habitats and is full of some of the most unique fauna and flora anywhere in the world.
Australia is not only made up of the inland of the Australian continent but several other smaller islands, each with their own unique features.
This makes for fertile ground for some of the most breathtaking hotels in the world.
Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley
A 2-and-half hour drive from Sydney, Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley is perfectly located between the Wollemi National Park and the Gardens of Stone National Park.
The world-famous, 1.03 million ha Greater Blue Mountains are in its surrounding area. Approximately 26 kilometres long and seven kilometres wide, the resort forms part of a roughly 7,000 acre conservancy.
The official website reads: "Steep cliffs contrast with the gentle curve of the valley floor and a picturesque road winds along the river to reach the resort on the eastern end.
"Situated within a tranquil natural setting boasting majestic valley views are six exceptionally private double treatment rooms. Holistic therapies are dispensed using Australia’s exclusive Sodashi skincare line, regarded internationally as the world’s purest spa brand."
Winner of the 2016 Australian Hotel of the Year award, the Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley offers a wide range of activities including horse riding, nature walks, mountain biking and four-wheel-drive safaris.
Jamala Wildlife Lodge
One of the top-rated locations in Canberra, it doesn't take long to discover what's special about the Jamala Wildlife Lodge. This lodge, which is located on the banks of the Molonglo River next to Scrivener Dam, the National Zoo & Aquarium offers guided tours, private animal feeding sessions and accommodation alongside animal enclosures, are just some of the features that make this lodge so unique.
There's a beautiful outdoor pool and, if you're feeling a little homesick, African cuisine is served in the dining room. A safari experience (duirng the day or overnight) is available for guests and allows them to catch a glimpse of animals such as lions, tigers, cheetahs, bears, monkeys, giraffes and zebras.
There's private suites, bungalows, a tree house each equipped with a private bathroom and several other luxury features.
Byron at Byron Resort
The Byron at Byron is a resort uniquely designed to embrace Australia's culture. Built within 18 hectares of wetland rainforest, it offers atranquil and relaxed experience that you wouldn't expect from a luxury resort.
Morning walks through the bush to the nearby beach coupled with some awesome experiences such as some free daily yoga classes add to its homey feel.
But it also has some luxury features like the stunning 25-meter infinity pool and the on-site restaurant, complete with "seasonal menus based on a farm-to-plate philosophy accompanied by an extensive selection of local and international wines."
With amazing ratings from couples, this is an ideal visit for you and your partner. Together, you two can learn about the rainforest’s history and unique eco-system from the resort’s ranger. Sounds fun!