IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO TAKE a break from the daily grind of urban life, or something different from your usual vacations, you’ll want to consider Darwin. This is where you can truly slow down, and embrace blue skies, balmy weather and spectacular landscapes to unwind and recharge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Beyond Darwin, which covers the northernmost region of the Top End of the Territory, Katherine, Arnhem Land, and Kakadu, also offer plenty of luxe stays. From lodges at Nitmuluk National Park to Tiwi Island’s beachfront retreats or a working cattle station near Bullo River, unforgettable and unique stays are abundant here, whether it’s a long weekend escape or a multi-week trip.

There are also plenty of reasons for discerning travellers to embrace enriching and authentic experiences in the Territory – from helicopter rides over iconic landmarks and rugged coastlines, to exclusive wildlife encounters at private sanctuaries and personalised Aboriginal culture tours by knowledgeable guides.

Uncover the most luxurious bush experiences

Among the many things you can do in the Northern Territory is explore its remote outback and then indulge in a wonderful stay at Bamurru Plains. This is an all-inclusive Australian safari camp complete with chef-prepared meals paired with Australian wines. You will be well taken care of by a team of hosts and guides who are passionate about the local area and its wildlife. The 10 safari bungalows and two private safari retreats overlook the remote floodplain. 

With the unique mesh walls, you can hear, see and almost touch the wildlife and wilderness around you. When it’s time to rest, you will sleep soundly through the stillness of the night. This area is where the annual migration of over 100,000 magpie geese can be seen and is also home to one of the largest crocodile populations in the world. Bamurru Plains is open from March to October. 

After immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Nitmiluk Gorge, with spectacular cliffs that glow in the changing light, you can rest and relax in Cicada Lodge. This upmarket accommodation is set within Nitmiluk National Park, a sanctuary from which to embrace ancient landscapes and Aboriginal culture. 

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There are 18 exclusive rooms with aircon and private balconies overlooking native bushland. After exploring the Aussie bush, tuck into native foods featured on the contemporary menu.

Alternatively, visit Seven Spirit Bay, an iconic wilderness lodge on the Cobourg Peninsula. Set amid the pristine marine sanctuary of Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, the lodge combines luxury and adventure – natural bush, coral reefs and rocky red cliffs surround its coastal location. Its area is only accessible by boat or via the lodge’s private airstrip. 

As you explore the pristine marine environment, you may see dolphins, dugongs, turtles, crocodiles and whales on a wildlife spotting cruise. Other perks include all meals prepared by an in-house chef, four-wheel-drive wilderness safaris and historical tours to Victoria Settlement.

Located in an exclusive area of Cooinda Lodge’s grounds, the five Yellow Water Villas at Cooinda Lodge are adjacent to the Kakadu region’s most famous natural water habitat – Yellow Water Billabong (Ngurrungurrudjba). 

Nestled under a canopy of trees, each of the Yellow Water Villas fuses luxury with environmental sustainability. The accommodations are built on stilts to minimise the impact on the land. During your stay, make it a point to take in the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of the Top End’s Unesco World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. 

Find paradise on these island retreats

For a glamping experience like no other, visit Banubanu Beach Retreat on Bremer Island. From the deluxe beachfront bungalows to the exclusive, elevated penthouse, you will be surrounded by the natural beauty of this tropical island. 

Gourmands will enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in the restaurant or a scenic picnic lunch. You may even encounter nesting sea turtles on the stunning beach. Banubanu is located on Aboriginal land that belongs to the local Yolgnu clan of East Arnhem Land.

If you’ve always dreamt of escaping to a remote natural paradise, Tiwi Island Retreat, tucked away on the western edge of Bathurst Island, is the place for you. Set amid a pristine marine sanctuary, the retreat offers spectacular views of the beach and waters. The inclusive package options include world-class fishing adventures, Aboriginal culture tours and unique wildlife encounters.

Go off-grid on an outback adventure

To go off the grid, visit Bullo River Station for an authentic cattle station experience. It is a place to truly get away, but don’t worry – there’s WiFi here (if you really must!).

Set on privately owned land at the convergence of the Bullo and Victoria Rivers, Bullo River Station is a working cattle station in the Northern Territory, near the Western Australian border. Here you can explore stunning landscapes and waterfalls, swim in remote waterholes, fish for barramundi and discover Aboriginal rock art and wildlife. 

The 12 guest rooms, each with air conditioning and a modern ensuite, open onto shady lawns. There is also a comfortable communal area where guests can help themselves to freshly baked goods or enjoy a drink with fellow travellers. Bullo is an all-inclusive stay, with all food and drinks provided.

Finniss River Lodge is an all-inclusive luxury lodge nestled on a working cattle station privately owned by a third-generation pastoralist family. Situated on the edge of vast wetlands, each of the lodge’s six elegant rooms commands expansive views of nature and sunsets. 

Your tailored stay at Finniss River Lodge can be as adventurous or relaxed as you like. You can choose from a range of enriching guided tours, including wildlife viewing, bushwalking, and air boating experiences.

Unforgettable ways to travel in the region

Embark on a journey of refined leisure, exploring the wonders of Darwin and beyond with these luxurious experiences. You can do it via train across the outback or by helicopter to enjoy captivating views of the diverse landscapes. 

• Get on board The Ghan Expedition 

Explore Australia’s vast interior with one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys – The Ghan Expedition – from Darwin to Adelaide. In operation since 1929, The Ghan has more than 90 years of outback crossings. Get ready for an epic experience on board, where you will indulge in sumptuous dining, elegant private cabins, and attentive service. Kick off your adventure with a range of Off Train Experiences, it will be a rewarding personal journey through Australia’s outback and beyond. 

• Aim for the sky with Kakadu Air

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kakadu National Park from above with Kakadu Air’s scenic flights. Enjoy the park’s stunning landscapes, including cascading waterfalls to ancient rock formations. The travel packages offer a range of experiences, from exploring the park’s cultural heritage to encountering its diverse wildlife.

• Go heli-foraging and make your own gin

Gin lovers can embark on a unique heli-foraging tour to harvest native botanicals with Darwin Distilling Co. Take a 30-minute helicopter flight from Darwin to Finniss River Lodge. There, an expert guide will take you on a foraging tour through the property. Along the way, learn about the wildlife, rich history and pastoral practices across the diverse landscapes. After harvesting your botanicals, you can enjoy morning tea at the lodge. To return, take another scenic flight along the coastline back to Darwin for your gin-making experience at Charlie’s of Darwin. After a gourmet lunch, you will get to taste your own bespoke blended gin and also take home a bottle with you. 

Looking for more information to plan your luxe getaway to Darwin and the Top End? Check out these ideas to add to your itinerary.