Luxe Essentials

Blessed be the infinity pools, right? When holidays are all about the thread count and access to a private yacht, look no further! The playground of so many celebrities even Cannes gets envious, Port Douglas and surrounds is an exclusive destination. Fancy a luxury hotel with all the trimmings and a lagoon pool so big it has its own postcode? How about a palatial private home with beachfront access and every conceivable want met? Throw in two World Heritage-listed locations with highend, stylish experiences, and… oh Barry, this is living.

1. HELICOPTER TO THE TOP OF A WATERFALL

Go where the rest cannot

Image credit: Nautilus Aviation

Surely this must be up there with one of life's ultimate experiences? A private chopper ride to the top of a Jurassic Park-esque waterfall where you can swim, relax and eat gourmet treats. The stunning Mossman Gorge is a truly magical location that feels like an ethereal otherworld. A secluded spot only accessible by helicopter sets the scene with rivers and creeks that are fed from the more ancient times.

2. COUNT THE THREAD COUNTS

Sleep when the stars do

Image credit: Sheraton Port Douglas Resort

Lux and thread count go hand in hand, right? But beyond the thread count are endless infinity pools, palatial properties and very clear instructions on The Art of Tropical Living (aka relax and repeat). From the breathtaking expansiveness of the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort through to private homes a Kardashian would swoon over, Port Douglas and the Daintree has no shortage of gold-leaved places to lay your head.

3. LIVE OUT YOUR YACHTING DREAMS

Great Barrier Reef trip for 2

Image credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

While collecting fine art and jewels or polishing the collection of vintage cars are lovely and all, there's very little that puts one into a league of luxury all by themselves than life on a superyacht. Yachting experiences up this way are less Monaco casino heist glamour and more Cannes and champagne class. We've even got the most picturesque places for you to take your yacht (or know people who'll take you out on theirs).

4. A GASTRONOME'S DELIGHT

We get it… the obscenely wealthy have it good. They have the stylists and the drivers, the art consultants, the personal trainers and the interior decorators. But our favourite of all silver-spooned perks must be the private chef. Imagine having someone in your kitchen cooking your every waking meal? The dream, oh the dream! Well, you're welcome. A land of tasty delights and plenty of world-class chefs to help, your inhouse chef is only a phone call away.