Out & About June 2017

A ustralia is a land of extremes and vivid contrasts, where the majestic landscapes, boundless horizons and unique wildlife continue to inspire explorers, artists, adventurers and pioneers. From spectacular coastlines fringed with endless beaches, ancient rainforests and fertile plains, to the Red Centre and the dramatic transformation of the land from the dry to wet season in the north; the sheer scale and rugged nature of the Outback has meant that some of its most iconic landscapes remain relatively undiscovered. A vast and ancient land in the remote north of Western Australia, the Kimberley is one of the world’s most precious and untouched wilderness areas. There is no better way to discover the secrets of this region than on a private six-day helicopter safari, giving you the freedom and flexibility to decide what you would like to experience. Discuss each day’s plan with your pilot, who knows the Kimberley intimately and will ensure that every day exceeds your expectations. Stay in remote luxury lodges, some only accessible by air, where comfort is prioritised alongside diverse wilderness adventures in places that privileged few have ever seen. Begin your safari in Kununurra, a small town at the eastern extremity of the region, before heading north to the coast. Perched on sand dunes above the beach, the 20 stunning private villas at Berkeley River Lodge provide amazing views of the sea or the Berkeley River with its impressive red rock gorges. Cruise the river, cool off with a dip in the secluded waterholes of Berkeley Creek and spot native flora and fauna, including saltwater crocodiles, rock wallabies and birds of prey. Fly to Mitchell Falls before ending the day watching the sun set atop Mount Casuarina.

parks meet a thriving metropolis of small bars, fabulous restaurants and curated street art. For local culture, wander the nearby city of Fremantle’s winding portside streets and Perth city centre’s museum and gallery precinct. Walk in leafy Kings Park and Botanic Gardens and visit nearby Rottnest Island. Fabulous food and wine are part and parcel of life in Australia, so head to the magnificent Margaret River wine region and stay at the beautiful Cape Lodge. Positioned in the epicentre of the region, its neighbours include the great wineries of Vasse Felix, Moss Wood, Pierro and Cullen. Whether your perfect day is a long lunch at a vineyard with award-winning wines and delicious food, visiting art galleries and boutiques, or canoeing and exploring the forests and pristine surf beaches, Margaret River has so much to offer. Australia is an idyllic backdrop to any holiday with a winning combination of natural wonders, fabulous food and wine, culture, history, vibrant cities and laid-back friendly locals. However, an adventure in the sparsely- populated northwest is an experience that truly gets to the heart of what defines this vast country and its people. Ponder the extremes of life down under and immerse yourself in an extraordinary journey through dramatic landscapes made barely accessible by the formidable nature of the environment. Glory in magnificent night skies untouched by light pollution, explore remote coastlines and discover the unique wildlife and profound solitude of the great Australian Outback. The price maybe a little eye-watering, but for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, this 13-night tour, including helicopter safari, flights are transfers, can’t be beaten.

Fly west along the coastline to Kimberley Coastal Camp, an exclusive, intimate and relaxed property. Considered to be one of the best fishing regions in Australia, head out early and have a go at catching the highly-prized, but elusive, barramundi among numerous other tropical species. Take your catch ashore to a deserted island fringed by Boab trees and have your guide cook it for you ‘bush style’. Marvel at Wandjina and Gwion Gwion ancient rock art, which gives some insight into Aboriginal culture, the traditional owners of this land. Drink in hand, put your feet up at the end of each day accompanied only by the inimitable sound of the Australian bush and a crackling fire. Your final stop, El Questro, is at the heart of the Kimberley and offers the freedom to really explore this last frontier. From deep gorges and mountains to thermal springs, mud and salt flats, rainforests and cascading waterfalls, everything the Kimberley has to offer is found within the property’s 700,000 acres. Hike through dry scrub, keeping an eye out for wildlife; discover shaded gorges where tropical vegetation and palm trees thrive in a humid microcosm created by hot springs. Take a boat along the Chamberlain Gorge or simply relax in the luxury homestead perched above the river. Admire the intense beauty of the changing light on the landscape and revel in the sheer solitude of this grand and ancient land. Before heading home, embrace the best of both worlds in Perth. Stay at COMO The Treasury, housed in Perth’s 140-year-old former state buildings, and discover a vibrant city where soft-sand beaches and scenic

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