By Australia specialist Louise
Whether splashing into the fish-filled waters of the Great Barrier Reef, listening to a cacophony of birdcalls in the lush rainforests of Daintree National Park, gazing at crater lakes in the Atherton Tablelands, or tasting delectable seafood and smelling the fresh sea air in the Whitsunday islands, visiting Queensland is a feast for the senses.
No matter if you crave wilderness adventure or feet-up indulgence, this diverse Australian state has it all. While Queensland might be known for the Great Barrier Reef and the palm-fringed Sunshine Coast, there are a plethora of lesser-visited places worth exploring as well.
If it’s island life you’re after, sail to the Whitsunday Islands, where swirls of white sand merge with turquoise-tinged waters at Whitehaven beach. Or take a fast ferry — or helicopter — to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) where you can wander the golden sands of Seventy Five Mile Beach to find the rusted ruins of the Maheno shipwreck, learn about Aboriginal history, and try to spot the 47 species of wallabies found on the island.
Beyond the seashore, ramble through tropical rainforests replete with rare birds and the rugged outback scenery. For a taste of cosmopolitan city life, head for Brisbane, where gleaming high-rise buildings skirt the water’s edge and gourmet dining is in abundance. In Queensland, luxury is redefined — it’s not merely about opulent hotels and restaurants, but the exclusivity of having us create an authentic travel experience tailored exactly to your desires, whichever sense you wish to journey deeper into.
Trip ideas for exploring Queensland
Bask in luxury, explore the outback and reef in an eco-friendly way, or take the family into the wilds of the rainforest 鈥� take your pick from our top trip ideas for inspiring your Queensland visit.
Our recommended Queensland experiences
Discover the rock art of Cooktown with an aboriginal elder, surf the beaches of the Sunshine Coast, or swim beneath the surge of waterfalls just outside bustling Brisbane. We will help craft your Queensland trip with experiences that speak to you.
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![Cape Tribulation]()
Reef & Rainforest Helicopter Flight
This scenic helicopter flight encompasses two of the highlights the Tropical North Queensland region has to offer, the Reef and Rainforest.
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![Coral Expeditions, Great Barrier Reef]()
Coral Expeditions Cruise
A Coral Expeditions Cruise is perhaps the best way to experience and discover the many National Park designated islands off the tropical north coast of Queensland and the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef.
Where to stay in Queensland
Queensland and luxury stays go hand in hand. From secluded island getaways to stylish treehouses perched over the rainforest, and intimate mountain lodges with transcendent views, you will be well catered to wherever you lay your head.
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![Qualia, Hamilton Island]()
Qualia
Qualia offers exquisite accommodation in an idyllic location on the secluded northern tip of Hamilton Island.
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![Anchor Bay Suite, Lizard Island]()
Lizard Island
Lizard Island is one of Australia's premier resorts. It offers luxurious accommodation and a wealth of stunning white sand beaches from which to enjoy the many water sports on offer.
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![Silky Oaks, Daintree & Cape Tribulation]()
Silky Oaks Lodge
Silky Oaks Lodge is a luxurious and stylish retreat surrounded by the verdant beauty of the Daintree National Park and overlooks the beautiful Mossman River.
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![Spicers Peak Lodge, Queensland]()
Spicers Peak Lodge
Australia鈥檚 highest non-alpine lodge, Spicers Peak offers understated, relaxed luxury. With an extremely secluded location, a small number of rooms, a roster of privately guided nature activities, a gourmet restaurant and a spa, it feels like a true retreat.
Further inspiration for your Queensland visit
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![Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach, Queensland]()
The Great Barrier Reef: find the right experience for you
The Great Barrier Reef is somewhere we鈥檝e all pictured, but your experience there can vary depending on where you stay. Australia specialist Louise shares her favourite spots to help you find the right option for you.
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![Diving in Great Barrier Reef, Australia]()
Family holidays in Australia
Country specialist Amanda explains why holidays in Australia are ideal for families. She shares her pick of where to go, from Sydney to national parks such as Kakadu, as well as suggestions for exploring Queensland鈥檚 rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
Queensland in pictures
Queensland, a journey for the senses
