Australia has long been on my list of dream destinations, and I recently spent two weeks exploring some of the country’s most stunning regions, from dynamic cities to remote wilderness with my Brownell Travel colleagues and our wonderful Australian host, The Tailor. Our itinerary included iconic Sydney, the wildlife wonderland of Kangaroo Island, the rugged beauty of The Outback, the crystal-clear waters of Lizard Island, and the vibrant city of Brisbane. If you’re dreaming of an Australian escape, here’s a glimpse of our unforgettable itinerary!

Sydney: Urban Sophistication with Iconic Harbor Views

We kicked off our journey in Sydney, a city that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with laid-back coastal charm. Our home in the city was the Capella Sydney, a luxurious haven right in the heart of the city. The hotel offers impeccable service and beautiful rooms, making it the perfect base for exploring.

In Sydney, we immersed ourselves in both culture and relaxation. A visit to the Sydney Opera House is an absolute must, and I highly recommend a private harbor cruise, which offers not only the best views of the city’s skyline but also a serene escape on the water. Of course, no trip to Sydney is complete without visiting Bondi Beach. We enjoyed cocktails at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, perched above the famous Bondi Baths, where the mix of surfers, sunshine, and stunning ocean views set the perfect mood for an afternoon unwind.

We also enjoyed a night at the Park Hyatt Sydney, a sophisticated waterfront hotel on Sydney’s harbor. The Park Hyatt offers some of the most spectacular views in the city, with rooms overlooking the Sydney Opera House and the bustling harbor. We woke up to the sun rising over this architectural masterpiece, with the city’s vibrant energy outside our door. The hotel’s understated elegance made it a standout.

Kangaroo Island: A Wildlife and Coastal Retreat

From Sydney, we flew to Kangaroo Island. Our home here was the Southern Ocean Lodge, a world-class remote property perched on the island’s rugged coastline. The lodge’s suites offer uninterrupted ocean views, and the floor-to-ceiling windows bring the beauty of the outdoors in. The service is flawless, and the lodge’s culinary offerings focus on fresh, local ingredients, including the island’s famed seafood.

One of the highlights of Kangaroo Island was encountering kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitat—an unforgettable experience that brought Australia’s unique wildlife up close. The island is a sanctuary for these animals, and during our stay, we could walk among kangaroos grazing in the wild and spot koalas nestled in eucalyptus trees. Seeing these iconic animals made us feel connected to the wild side of Australia in a way no zoo could replicate.

While the island is known for its wildlife, it also offers dramatic coastal scenery. A visit to Seal Bay allowed us to observe hundreds of seals frolicking in the surf!

The Outback: Raw Beauty and Adventure

For an authentic outback experience, we ventured to Mount Mulligan Lodge, a remote luxury retreat deep in the Australian wilderness. The lodge offers unparalleled access to the rugged beauty of the Outback, and with only a few guests at a time, the experience feels incredibly personal. Our pavilion featured sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, and the staff made us feel right at home with exceptional service and gourmet meals crafted from local ingredients.

Our time here was filled with adventure, including a sunrise hike that offered breathtaking views of the vast Outback and a 4x4 guided tour through rugged terrain that felt like a step back in time. The remoteness of Mount Mulligan allowed us to truly disconnect, making it an unforgettable experience of raw beauty and luxury.

Lizard Island: A Private Resort on the Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island was the crown jewel of our trip—a private island paradise located within the Great Barrier Reef. As the only resort on the island, Lizard Island offers a unique blend of seclusion and access to one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. Our beachfront villa was the epitome of luxury, with private access to the island’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Snorkeling directly off the shore revealed vibrant coral and a kaleidoscope of marine life. For a more immersive experience, we chartered a private boat to the Reef, where the coral gardens were even more dramatic. We encountered rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish. Whether you’re an avid diver or want to relax in paradise, Lizard Island offers the ultimate reef experience.

Brisbane: A Hidden Gem on the Rise

We ended our journey in Brisbane. The city is on the rise, preparing to host the 2032 Summer Olympics, and is transforming into a global destination. One of our most memorable experiences was a helicopter tour of Stradbroke Island, where we learned about the island’s rich Aboriginal history and enjoyed a fresh seafood lunch featuring Moreton Bay Bugs. This delicious crustacean combines the best of lobster and crab.

Brisbane surprised us with its dynamic atmosphere, healthy lifestyle, and sunny weather, making it a great finale to our trip.

Travel Tips for a Seamless Experience

Yes, the flight to Australia is long, but with the right tips and a few tricks, it’s completely manageable—and worth the effort, especially if you can upgrade to business class for added comfort. We can lay out an easy flight plan to follow!

From cosmopolitan city life to wildlife encounters and underwater wonders, Australia offers a wealth of experiences for the discerning traveler. If Australia is on your list, I’d love to create a bespoke itinerary tailored to you!

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