Northern Treasures - 12 dage/11 nætter Darwin Mary River, Darwin, Mossman & Haggerstone Island
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Bamurru Plains | Mary River
Inspired by the luxury camps of Africa, this exclusive and remote wilderness lodge offers a prolific wildlife experience with exclusive access to a spectacular 300km² property.
Located on the coastal floodplains of the Mary River close to Kakadu National Park, Bamurru’s emphasis is on exposing you to one of the most significant ecosystems in Australia. The very design of the ten safari bungalows allows you to watch the parade of wildlife emerge to feed on the floodplain from the comfort of your bed! The alarm clock in the morning is the call of Magpie Geese and Whistling Kites and the orange light of dawn spreading across the floodplain.
Bamurru Plains is more than just a hotel room or a place to stay. At Bamurru, your time with us includes twice-daily guided safari-style experiences on our property. At night, one of our guides will often join you for dinner.
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Airboat SafariCredit: Emma Pritchett
Safari driveCredit: Tourism Northern Territory
Buffalo at sunrise on the floodplain Credit: Peter Eve
Airboat Safari Credit: Tourism Northern Territory
Flooded paperbark forestCredit: Richard I'Anson
Guided wilderness walk Credit: Shaana McNaught
Spacious and cool, each of the nine safari bungalows are built on stilts overlooking the floodplains, frequented by a myriad of bird and animal life. Mesh screen ceiling to floor walls on all three sides around the bed provides an experience in which guests can hear, see and almost touch the wildlife and wilderness around.
The alarm clock in the morning is the call of Magpie Geese, after whom the camp is named, as the orange light of dawn spreads across the floodplain, all is audible and visible without having to leave your bed!
The focus is on a supremely comfortable bed (organic cotton linen, pillow menu) and a spacious ensuite bathroom with high pressure showers. In addition to corrugated iron and lantern lighting, the bungalow décor reflects the region’s earlier indigenous, hunting and pastoral history with buffalo horns, explorer’s maps, Aboriginal art work and fish traps as well as old photos providing a sense of the human heritage of the area. Each room has a cold water thermos, local flora and fauna reading materials and species list.
You won’t find a television, CD player, mini bar or even mobile phone reception here – a true escape to your immediate environment. At night, the only sound is the meanderings of marsupials in the foliage and the croak of frogs.
The Kingfisher Suite reflects Bamurru's core philosophy of blending the accommodation as closely as possible with the surrounding bush, however, is designed to allow guests a superior sense of seclusion while retaining a spectacular outlook on the Swim Creek floodplain. The sense of scale in this floodplain setting is accentuated by the size of the suite and Bamurru's trademark ceiling to floor mesh screens allowing guests an intimate sense of exposure to the wildlife and wilderness outside.
With 81m2 of space in the bedroom alone, the suite features a king size bed, lounge area and (if travelling as a family) space to accommodate a family of 5 in comfort - deluxe swags are provided for children to sleep out on the enclosed suite verandah. The proximity and sounds of the bush at night provide a sense of excitement while securely tucked up behind the screened walls of the suite.
For honeymooners looking for a sense of privacy, the Kingfisher Suite allows for in room dining, with a camp table set up for an intimate candlelit dinner with only the sounds of the bush as company. Meals are served by staff members from the main lodge with wines chosen from the lodge wine list.
The bathroom features twin basins and showers, within a décor of rustic chic timber and corrugated walls utterly in tune with the environment and pastoral heritage of the area. For maximum exposure (and only the local Agile Wallabies as company) the suite also offers a shower with full ceiling to floor views across the floodplain and surrounding paperbark forests.
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Library, Malaria Free, Pool, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Natural History Tours, Quad Biking, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Historical Tours, Museums, Natural History Tours, River Cruises, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Bamurru’s signature experience is a thrilling ride across the floodplains by airboat. This wildlife-packed journey takes you from wide open grasslands to a lagoon surrounded by peeling paper bark trees. Feel the rush as you skim the surface at speed then float in silence listening to the sound of nothing but the bush.
The floodplain wetlands of the Mary River catchment are the key natural feature of this area and some of the most important in the country, home to thousands of Magpie Geese, Plumed Whistling-Duck, Egrets, Ibis and a host of other birds. These beautiful birds will take flight as you zip across the floodplains on your airboat, flocks sometimes thousands of birds strong!
Our guides will provide you with a hands on demonstration of the many uses of the flora from the wetlands whilst floating amongst a forest of melaleuca trees or looking out for crocodiles slowly swimming amongst the grasses of the floodplain. A morning trip out on the floodplains in an airboat is utterly exhilarating and the only way to truly experience this environment.
The Mary River catchment is home to some 236 species of bird, many of which are found at Bamurru Plains. The significance of this particular property comes in the variety of habitat: black soil floodplains, paperbark swamps, savannah woodland, river mangroves and coastal beaches support an extraordinary diversity of birdlife. Even in the dry season the floodplains on the property still retain large areas of water where the birdlife congregate in extroadinary numbers rarely seen elsewhere in Australia.
The birding spectacle on the Swim Creek floodplain and surrounding Mary River region is second to none in the Top End due to both the extraordinary volume and variety of birdlife and Bamurru’s 300km2 allows birding groups a private and exclusive experience. At particular times of the year, the floodplain will host hundreds of thousands of Magpie Geese and species that are associated with the life cycle of the geese, particularly raptors.
The richness of the floodplain also supports dense populations of other waterbirds, with thousands of egrets, whistling ducks, jacanas, crakes and strong populations of jabiru, brolgas and raptors. The surrounding paperbark swamps and savannah woodland provide a huge diversity of species for keen birders.
The Sampan Creek, which is part of the Mary River System, forms the western boundary of the station. During the dry season (May-October) the crocodiles will regulate their body temperatures by basking on the banks in the sunlight. During these months, the numbers of crocs sunning themselves will give you an idea of the size of the population.
It’s not just the crocodiles, many bird species call this mangrove lined environment home. Relax in the shade provided on our canopy covered cruise as you meander along this creek system, learning about these animals from our skilled guides and enjoying sunset canape’s as the light begins to fade.
One of the best ways to see the variety of wildlife that teems here is on an open-top game drive, more akin to an African safari across the savannah.
With the recession of the waters from much of the floodplain in the dry season, the plains become accessible to 4X4 vehicles and a journey out with one of our guides will provide a unique insight to this fragile yet very important environment.
Our open sided safari vehicles feature shaded canopies with comfortable and raised seating to provide the best possible vantage point to view agile wallabies, estuarine crocodiles, wild horses, buffalo’s and some of the 236 bird species on the property.
Our guides will describe the Aboriginal uses for some of the local flora and fauna while you enjoy a cool drink and bite to eat.
A guided walking safari at Bamurru is the perfect antidote to a busy life. You’re compelled to slow down and absorb the sights and sounds of the bush, understanding how every element has its place. At this pace, nature has a way of showing you what’s important.
Look for ant trails that criss cross the ground at your feet, or the birds calling up in the tree tops before settling in for morning tea amongst the beauty which is Bamurru.
Head out with our guides away from the main lodge on a short drive before continuing on foot learning the Indigenous uses for the various plants and animals on Bamurru or learning how to track different wildlife through the forest.
Walking safaris are individually tailored to your interests and tend to be run in the latter part of the dry season.
Raised 6 metres above the ground in the tree canopy, the 24m2 screened platform allows a unique perspective on this fragile environment. The Hide is the ultimate eyrie from which birdlife and other wildlife can be observed undisturbed in their natural habitat.You will have a 360º view overlooking the Mary River floodplain, canopy and background woodland.
Perfect for photographic or ornithological groups as well as individuals, adjustable flaps allows cameras and binoculars to be focussed on the surrounding wildlife, birdlife and floodplains and there’s a Nikon Prostaff fieldscope has been fitted for maximum visibility.
Criss-crossing between floodplain savannah, monsoonal forests and dry, open areas dotted with termite mounds alongside buffalo and brumbies, explore Bamurru from the wheel of your own quad bike.
This leisurely safari will take you to areas inaccessible by our regular 4WD vehicles, while our knowledgeable field guides lead you to some of our favourite secret spots.
While technically not a real activity, some of our guests prefer to do absolutely nothing. The best bit is that the wildlife will come to you. Watch hundreds of birds take flight from around the infinity-edge pool, see buffalo roam and Agile wallabies hop past your bungalow as you wake to sounds of thousands of Magpie Geese. If all you want to do is switch off, chill out and get away from the hustle and bustle of life then Bamurru is one of the best places in the world to do it.
Just a short hop by light aircraft across the river systems that separate Bamurru Plains from Kakadu brings you to the heart of this country. Rock art galleries reveal stories of Aboriginal people and their ancient culture. Textures of colours, vistas across savannah woodlands and floodplains provide a sense of the spirituality of this ancient landscape.
From rock overhangs and caves at Ubirr Rock (think classic scenes from Crocodile Dundee) to the meandering waters of the East Alligator River that drains from the stone country of Arnhem Land and marks the boundary between Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land, this day will expose the senses to country that is rich in Aboriginal culture, flora and fauna.
Travelling with Wild Bush Luxury’s field guides in our custom built vehicle, your day will include a scenic flight into Kakadu, a bush picnic lunch and the chance to spend time with an Aboriginal guide on the waters of the East Alligator River before returning overland, with a stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre, returning in time for sundowner drinks, canapes and the comfort of the safari lodge as the sun sets over Bamurru Plains.
Included on a shared basis on the Ultimate Kakadu Experience package, also available to be booked at $750 per person subject to availability on Tuesdays and Fridays.
The Lodge
Bamurru’s chefs incorporate native and locally sourced produce to provide a gourmet experience integrating authentic, yet contemporary Australian recipes, from kangaroo skewers to crispy barramundi with finger lime salsa and quandong ice-cream.
Dining is enjoyed with fellow guests, where the day’s stories are recounted and new friends are made.
Breakfast is generally light as guests are up early to experience the wildlife first thing, start the day with freshly baked wild berry and wattle seed muffins, 'bush eggs' any style on sourdough toast with bacon, tomato, warrigal green and kutjera relish or house blend bircher muesli with Manuka honey, bush apple and a dollop of vanilla bean yogurt.
Lunch is generally served on the wildlife observation deck overlooking the floodplains, where guests might enjoy citrus and fennel warm chicken salad with roasted macadamia nuts while watching a changing cast of birds, brumbies, buffalo and wallabies.
Canapés and sundowners are enjoyed out in the wilderness during your afternoon activity or on the lodge deck just before dinner.
Nightly, a three-course dinner hosted by one of your field guides is served at the long timber dining table as frogs break into a croaky serenade. The menu features Australian bush-inspired recipes. Watch our chef create his favourite bush spiced duck confit in the open kitchen from the dinner table.
Guests can help themselves to drinks at any time from the self-service bar offering a variety of refreshments, including an after dinner tipple for those so inclined.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront | Darwin
Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront is only a stone’s throw away from the Darwin Convention Centre and within walking distance of Darwin’s CBD. Accommodation consists of a variety of studio rooms and well as one and two-bedroom apartments. Each unit is equipped with a kitchen or kitchenette, an LCD TV, ironing facilities, a coffee maker, a minibar, hairdryer, air conditioning and a safety deposit box. Guests can enjoy a wide range of tasty dishes at the on-site restaurant. Other amenities offered are internet access, a bar, a heated outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
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Credit: AdinaHotels
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Credit: AdinaHotels
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Silky Oaks Lodge - Daintree Rainforest | Port Douglas
Silky Oaks Lodge, nestled in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest, invites guests into a luxurious retreat that harmoniously blends contemporary design with the untouched beauty of Tropical North Queensland. This enchanting lodge offers 40 elevated treehouse-style suites, each thoughtfully designed with modern furnishings and expansive verandas that cradle hammocks for tranquil relaxation. Guests can choose from various accommodation options, including the intimate Rainforest Retreat with its king bed and outdoor deck, the family-friendly Treehouse Premium, or the elegant Riverhouse overlooking cascading waters. The lodge boasts key amenities such as the Healing Waters Spa, where rejuvenating treatments are paired with stunning views, and the Treehouse Restaurant, which serves contemporary Australian cuisine crafted from local produce. With an outdoor pool, gym, and access to nearby attractions like Mossman Gorge and the Great Barrier Reef, Silky Oaks Lodge serves as an idyllic base for both adventure and serenity, ensuring every moment spent here is filled with discovery and relaxation.
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Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge
Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge
Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge
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Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge
Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge
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Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge
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Riverhouse
The Riverhouse invites dreamy retreat with contemporary living quarters and ensuite bathroom with private outdoor bathtub overlooking the waters cascading below. View all packages.
Features • King or twin beds • Open-plan lounge • Spacious ensuite bathroom with shower • Private outdoor deck with bath and shower • Outdoor balcony with hammock • Floor to ceiling glass windows • Rainforest and river views
Lounge and balcony The popular Riverhouse is perched above the Mossman River. Indoor lounge options include a king single daybed and teak occasional chair ideal for relaxing with a book. Step outside to the deck and hop into the double hammock, perfect for a swing or slumber in the afternoon breeze.
Bedroom and ensuite The spacious stone-clad bathroom offers slick double vanity, walk-in rain shower and custom Healing Waters Spa custom spa products. Step outside to the balcony decked out with freestanding bath tub, perfect for soaking in the views of the rainforest canopy.
RiverhouseCredit: Riverhouse
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Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi
Property Facilities
Guided Tours, Gym / Fitness Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Wheelchair Access
Rainforest Waterfall Escape
Picnicking on top of a remote waterfall in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest is one of the coolest things to experience when in Tropical North Queensland.
Lift off with eco-certified operator Nautilus Aviation from Silky Oaks’ own helipad heading for the coast. View the extraordinary meeting place of the rainforest and reef from a thrilling new perspective. Get the camera ready!
Heading back inland, cue the Jurassic Park soundtrack and soar at Pterodactyl heights over the 180-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest before an exhilarating touchdown at Stewarts Creek Waterfall, a magical location only accessible by helicopter. Soak up wildly beautiful views and strip-off for a swim in the cool, spring-fed waters.
Experience a bucket-list worthy high with a gourmet picnic atop the falls complete with sparkling wine for a real ‘pinch me’ moment.
Tariff: From $1,405 per adult Duration: 30 minutes flying and 1 hour at waterfall Departs From: Silky Oaks Lodge
Operator Nautilus Aviation
Activity essentials Hat and sunglasses Sunscreen and insect repellant Swimwear and towel Camera Good mobility
Minimum 2 passengers, maximum 6 passengers based on weight and heli aircraft availability. Passengers need to have a good mobility to participate in this experience due to uneven ground at the waterfall location.
Dine @ Silky Oaks Lodge
Dine Dining at Silky Oaks Lodge draws on the richness of Tropical North Queensland’s produce, with a contemporary Australian menu shaped by ingredients from the region and beyond. The Treehouse Restaurant welcomes visitors aged 10 years and over for lunch. Advance bookings are essential. Breakfast and dinner are reserved for in-house guests. To book, please contact the lodge on +61 7 4098 1666 or reserve online below.
Breakfast Mornings at Silky Oaks Lodge begin with tropical Daintree fruits, freshly pressed juices and premium local tea and coffee.
Lunch Lunch at the Treehouse Restaurant unfolds at an unhurried pace, whether shared with a loved one or enjoyed among friends.
Dinner As the rainforest settles into evening, the gentle rush of the Mossman River becomes a soothing backdrop to dining at the softly lit Treehouse Restaurant.
Plant to Plate A thriving kitchen garden supplies the Treehouse Restaurant with vibrant, just-picked ingredients, while inviting guests to wander among its abundant greenery.
Our Chef Mathew Fury leads the culinary team as Executive Chef, bringing with him a career that blends fine-dining finesse with a heartfelt commitment to community.
Silky Oaks DineCredit: Silky Oaks Dine
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Credit: Silky Oaks Dine
Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 40
Haggerstone Island Resort | Haggerstone Island
Haggerstone Island is an all-inclusive boutique resort situated on the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia. Individually designed lodges blend seamlessly along the island foreshore; each private villa with its own pristine beachfront and sea view. The main building captures the imagination with heavy beams, a high thatched roof, and light flickering from the cooking fire. At the ocean, a thatched jetty hovers over a lagoon that vibrates with fish life. All excursions, accommodation, meals, equipment hire, tackle, bait, and activities are included in the accommodation rate which also includes daily excursions on the resort's 40-foot jet boat.
