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The Big Six: Australian rooms with a view

James Crichton-Smith
Saturday 12 December 2009 00:00 GMT
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Southern Ocean Lodge, South Australia

This "lodge" comprises 21 luxury suites perched atop the cliffs of Kangaroo Island, Australia's third-largest island. Much of this unspoilt wilderness is protected as a conservation area or national park, home to kangaroos, koalas and seals. The lodge's contemporary suites overlook the pounding surf of the Southern Ocean. They feature glass-walled bathrooms and private outdoor terraces.

Price: Doubles from A$1,800 (£1,000), full board

Book now

Longitude 131°, Northern Territory

Offering iconic views of Uluru, Longitude 131° is a luxurious Outback camping experience. Each of the 15 tents is dedicated to the memory of an Australian pioneer or explorer and is decorated with artwork relating to them. Cultural tours of Uluru are offered at sunrise and sunset, with dinner served back at camp under the stars.

Price: Tents from A$2,020 (£1,122), full board, with airport transfers, entry into the National Park and tours

Book now

Stonebarn, Western Australia

Australia's Margaret River wine country is firmly on the tourist map, but Stonebarn is in the lesser known "epicurean region" of Western Australia, known for its black truffles. The architect-designed stone and timber "barn" has rustic valley and forest views from its six elegant suites. The double-height rooms feature timeless decor and luxurious furnishings such as four-poster beds and claw-foot baths. There's also a "bush bath" out in the open under the tree canopy, an intimate restaurant and a well-stocked wine cellar.

Price: Doubles from A$350 (£195), including breakfast

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Royal Mail Hotel, Victoria

This low-lying hotel is set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Sturgeon in the Grampian Ranges. Established in 1855, the hotel offers contemporary accommodation and an acclaimed restaurant with its own kitchen garden, orchard and olive groves.

Price: Doubles from A$140 (£78), including breakfast

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Bamurru Plains, Northern Territory

Just outside Kakadu National Park, these bush "safari suites" overlook a floodplain, so you could wake up to see buffalo wading through the water or migratory birds sweeping past.

Price: Doubles from A$1,860 (£1,034), full board with activities.

Book now

Arkaba Station, South Australia

Presiding over a 60,000-acre working sheep station, this 19th-century homestead opened as a hotel last month. With just five bedrooms, it offers an upmarket taste of the Outback experience.

Price: Doubles from A$1,580 (£878), full board with activities and transfers

Book now

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