Trans-Tasman bubble

Far-Flung

RETREATS

With the Trans-Tasman travel ‘bubble’ on the horizon, we check in to top Australian and New Zealand hotels, resorts and lodges that let you holiday – and social isolate at the same time.

Kauri Cliffs Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Kauri Cliffs’ 22 suites sprawl across more than 2,400 hectares of farmland in the Bay of Islands region – it’s fair to say, social distancing is in its DNA. Even more exclusive are the brand new Residences: three four-bedroom villas set in a separate enclave to the main lodge. Ideal for families and groups of friends travelling together.

Hermes Estate Luxury Retreat New South Wales, Australia One of Australia’s newest hotels, Hermes sits on a leafy two-hectare estate adjoining the Never Never River in New South Wales’ sleepy town of Gleniffer. The opulent property is available for exclusive rental only: just four guests, a butler, chef and spa therapist. It’s a 45-minute drive here from Coffs Harbour, but we highly recommend making the most of the private helipad to chopper in.

Pretty Beach House New South Wales, Australia Just 100 kilometres north of Sydney, but a world away in terms of laid-back atmosphere, this lodge comes with style to spare. Got a group of friends? Book out the four pavilion-style suites, which configure into one communal house – with private pools, stellar views and gourmet food on demand.

Lake House Victoria, Australia This acclaimed Daylesford property is as well known for its setting – on a vast property in the heart of Victoria’s spa country – as its food. Book the Retreat, which offers private accommodation for up to four guests, and is set apart from the main lodge and restaurant, with private parking and extra luxuries to boot.

Picnic Island Tasmania, Australia Want absolute seclusion in one of the most beautiful parts of Tasmania – indeed, Australia? Picnic Island sleeps just one group of 10 guests on a slip of windswept land off Tassie’s east-coast Freycinet National Park. There are luxe eco-lodges, dramatic views, wilderness aplenty – and not much else. The retreat is totally unstaffed, so this is exclusivity at its finest.

Maruia River Retreat Murchison, New Zealand Secluded and surrounded by native forest on the banks of a river, Maruia is the ultimate natural antidote to city life. Until mid-October, its seven villas are available exclusively to 14 guests travelling together, with diversions ranging from forest bathing and sunrise yoga to guided hikes and river rafting. Disconnect, recharge and rejuvenate. Otahuna Lodge Tai Tapu, New Zealand One of the first NZ lodges to reopen, Otahuna’s ‘Lord of the Manor’ package allows you to hire out the entire luxe property. Which means you and nine friends have exclusive run of the Victorian mansion, set on immaculate grounds south of Christchurch. Enjoy calming walks through the countryside, then return for gourmet meals and fireside wine.

Matakauri Lodge Queenstown, New Zealand

The whole of this property is spectacular, but the Owner’s

Cottage is particularly beguiling, if only for its jaw-dropping setting overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, just outside Queenstown. The private alpine retreat comes with space to sleep eight, paired with a spacious lounge, hot tub, full kitchen and dining room. Cook up a storm, or call on your chef for in-villa meals with a dreamy mountain backdrop.

Part 1 of our ongoing Trans-Tasman hotel series: Come back next month for more ‘bubble’ favourites.