26 September 2023

Special travel experiences

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By Rama Gaind.

It was Helen Keller who said: “The most beautiful things in life cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt by the heart.”

If luxury escapes are your idea of a holiday, then look no further than heading out to

Sequoia Lodge in South Australia offers memorable experiences.

Sequoia Lodge, in South Australia. Seemingly removed from the hustle and bustle of the world, Sequoia sits on the side of Mount Lofty, high above the Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills, a region currently being considered for UNESCO World Heritage status.

Sequoia Lodge is where you escape from the ordinary. Part of Sequoia’s philosophy is to connect you with the land and its people through a range of ‘intimate and curated’ on-site experiences that are included in your stay. As part of these daily and seasonally changing experiences listen to ancient dreamtime stories, savour and learn from artisan winemakers, enjoy a sunrise yoga session or join a guided nature walk of the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden. Alternatively, you can simply sit back and relax in one of the artesian spring-fed hot pools overlooking the breathtaking Piccadilly Valley.

Due to the nature of its exclusive experience offerings, the lodge only accommodates guests over the age of 18 years. The contemporary, luxurious suites have sweeping views through spacious open-plan designs.

Nature, connection and indulgence. Sequoia has crafted a selection of unique off-site happenings. While you discover the secrets of the Adelaide Hills, these experiences will take you behind the scenes on an intimate journey of discovery with some of South Australia’s most popular luxury brands. Why not take a private helicopter to meet a winemaker, go behind the scenes at RM Williams or drive a Ferrari through the Adelaide Hills!

The high-rise skyline in Surfers Paradise. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

Queensland beckons

Looking to the north, and the stunning Gold Coast is one of these incredible places that’s so much more than just a glamorous spot to soak up the sun. The lure of the world’s best beaches is hard to match, yet this motivating destination also offers a mouth-watering hatted food and wine scene, a magical hinterland where you can easily lose yourself exploring and fabulous new luxury hotels and decadent retreats to discover.

The high-rise Novotel Surfers Paradise puts the sand and sunshine on your doorstep, with the famed sandy stretches just metres away, and the lively atmosphere of Cavill Avenue within easy reach.

Whether you want to get up close to adventure at the nearby theme parks just a short drive away, lounge on the shores of the Gold Coast’s most iconic beachfront or get lost among 400 retail stores at Pacific Fair, this contemporary hotel is a relaxing retreat where you can unwind after exciting days of discovery

The Pullman Reef Hotel Casino is Cairns’ ultimate entertainment escape with unmistakable Tropical North Queensland touches. With views over Trinity Inlet and the magic of the Great Barrier Reef easily accessible, this seaside haven invites you to experience one of the east coast’s most sought-after destinations. Looking to go elsewhere; then spectacular natural beauty awaits on the doorstep, from day trips for snorkelling and diving to glass-bottom boat tours and fishing on the Great Barrier Reef.

Rumba Beach Resort, Caloundra.

Explore lively south Brisbane from the stylish urban base that is Arise Ivy & Eve Apartments with an address to impress on glamorous Merivale Street. This urban oasis takes you right into the city’s dynamic and cosmopolitan streets. Find yourself a stone’s throw from Brisbane City Botanic Gardens and Eagle Street Pier, and the city’s premier entertainment precinct, brimming with boutique shops and entertainment venues, award-winning restaurants, theatres and cool bars.

This collection of modern, self-contained apartments has everything you need for a sun-kissed city escape.

You can also experience the Sunshine Coast’s most contemporary and stylish apartments for a family-friendly escape at the coastal-inspired Rumba Beach Resort which is perfectly positioned in the heart of Caloundra, just steps from Bulcock Beach. This stylish resort is your launchpad to a treasure trove of natural and man-made wonders, wildlife sanctuaries and weekly markets, plus Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum and Noosa.

When you’ve had your fill of southeast Queensland’s myriad of activities, make the most of the resort’s serene beachside setting and impressive list of facilities.

DETAILS BOX

Tourism and Events Queensland

www.teq.queensland.com

Travel Associates

137071

Qantas

131313

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