By Rama Gaind.
Palm-fringed, white sandy beach and the Coral Sea are right across the road from The Reef House Palm Cove MGallery in Palm Cove, Queensland. Photo: Rama Gaind
“Stay positive. Better days are on their way.” They have to because “the more you feed your mind with positive thoughts, the more you can attract great things into your life.” — Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart
Uncertainty, restlessness and despair surround us at present as the COVID-19 lockdown grips Sydney. Various stages of restrictions exist in other states. However, the negativity is being offset by the golden success of some of the Australian teams at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Remember, there are some places we can visit — or plan to — one day.
One wonderful example is Palm Cove in far north Queensland. It has a postcard image that’s picture-perfect: white sands beckon, palm trees sway in the tropical breeze and it’s where the rainforest meets the sea.
This is where the daily tedium ends and the exceptional begins. Just 25 minutes north of Cairns International Airport, the surprisingly cosmopolitan village in Palm Cove is ideally located for exploring the magical attractions of Queensland’s tropical north.
Known for its centuries-old paperbark trees that line almost the entire length of the cove including the beachfront main street, Williams Esplanade. This quaint village has some appealing restaurants, olde-world retail outlets, bars and cafes.
What an amazing view from the entrance to The Reef House Palm Cove MGallery in Palm Cove. Photo: Rama Gaind
Experience the inviting character exuded by the stylish beach village of Palm Cove where no building is higher than the coconut palms. You can certainly unwind on the palm-fringed white sandy beach and contemplate the gentle waves of the Coral Sea, be adventurous and go for white-water rafting, take a 4WD safari or tone down the pace with golf.
In the midst of this is the tranquil sanctuary of The Reef House Palm Cove MGallery that enjoys idyllic, beach frontage in Williams Esplanade overlooking the azure waters of the Coral Sea.
The plantation design of this waterfront property exudes a dazzling character – particularly with the white buildings – as a perfect foil to turquoise pools and attractive gardens of blooming red hibiscus, fragrant frangipanis and hot pink bougainvillea vines. The majestically towering 300-plus-year-old melaleucas are a magnificent statement on entry to the resort.
Reef House
General manager Wayne Harris is proud of the resort’s history with some stylish restoration.
Relax around the swimming pool at The Reef House Palm Cove MGallery in Palm Cove. Photo: Rama Gaind
“We look forward to welcoming you personally … Famous for our luxury escapes The Reef House is an iconic boutique hotel overlooking the Coral Sea in the tropical village of Palm Cove, 25 minutes north of Cairns. The resort offers warm, personalised service with a selection of boutique tropical escape packages. For rest rejuvenation and relaxation, the Reef House is an adults only escape and the perfect getaway for couples seeking romantic bliss or simply a holiday in sheer relaxation.”
The resort has a certain undeniable sophistication: it oozes character with the added attraction of access to the beach across the road. The rooms offer privacy with the luxury of balconies that provide uninterrupted sea, pool or garden views.
The signature restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with the combination of location and delectable modern Australian cuisine made from hand-picked fresh produce teamed with attentive service.
That was certainly the case as we feasted on the five-course degustation menu that was matched to award-winning Australian and international wines and served with flair. It was created with passion by the dynamic culinary team, proving that simple ingredients are the reason for success.
Peppers treat
Impressive entrance to the Peppers Beach Club & Spa in Palm Cove, Queensland.
Down the road is another lovely property – Peppers Beach Club & Spa – where dining is a sheer treat, near a majestic melaleuca tree that takes centre stage. It is more than 600 years old. Another treat is to swim up to the pool bar for a cocktail or snack and meet in the lobby bar at dusk.
The restaurant offers views of Palm Cove’s tropical palm fringed beach. A selection of tastes and plates allows you to style a feast to suit your palate and embark on a culinary journey of the region’s best produce.
Hotel manager Stefan Kracke confidently speaks of the high standards set by staff that ensures exceptional quality, range and style of service.
“Your relaxing getaway, the Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove is an iconic resort comprised of lush green gardens, a rainforest rock pool and signature lagoon pool with sandy beaches.”
“Perfect for a romantic weekend or a relaxing family holiday, wake up to majestic ocean views, a tranquil pool surrounded by lush gardens, or rainforest-clad mountains in stylish spa rooms, suites, penthouses. Dine on the catch-of-the-day near the Coral Sea, or book a tour to explore world-class attractions. Palm Cove is home to seaside relaxation, any day of the year. Take a stroll along the sand or head into town for some boutique shopping.” It’s all not too far away from the hotel.
Take the time to explore some of the most precious reef and rainforest destinations on earth. Sightsee from above or enjoy the local markets. Set sail for the colourful coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef, take a journey through the ancient rainforests of the Daintree and Cape Tribulation or head for the hills and the unassuming wonders of the Atherton Tablelands.
Whatever you fancy — luxury, adventure or leisure — there will be no shortage of options as you relax, unwind and recharge after exploring the region’s natural wonders from reef to the rainforest and everything else in between!
FACT FILE
The Reef House Palm Cove MGallery
99 Williams Esplanade
Palm Cove, Qld 4879
T: (07) 4080 2600
Peppers Beach Club & Spa
123 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove Qld 4879
T: (07) 4059 9200
