More and more new luxury resorts are opening in Australia as more and more people realize just how attractive this huge country is. The Great Barrier Reef is a crowd pleaser with thousands of resorts which range from backpacker drinking camps, through Club Med, to the family friendly and through to the truly luxurious.

Bedarra Island has had a name as one of the top-notch Queensland 5-star resorts for quite a long time - and its not giving up its crown anytime soon. Sure its not as isolated as say Wrothram Park Lodgeand probably doesn’t boast as much wildlife as Kangaroo Island but if you want warm ocean, tranquil beaches, excellent food and a “total get away from it all”stay Bedarra Island is an excellent luxury choice in northern Queensland.

As Bedarra say themselves

“When you simply don’t wish to be found, when you need to escape, unwind and experience the finer things in life, there is no better place to disappear to than Bedarra Island; an exclusive tropical private hideaway…

Bedarra Island only has the one resort - guaranteeing no noisy visitors - oh and under-12’s aren’t catered for either. The 100 hectare island is a 20-minute launch ride away from Dunk Island - which is accessible by a scenic flight from Cairns in far north Queensland. Cairns has direct flights to every major Australian city and Japan.

With only 16 secluded villas, and a maximum of 32 guests at any time Bedarra is definitely boutique. All meals and an open bar are included in the tariff so you will probably meet everyone at the famous self-serve bar.

As for the activities:snorkeling,canoing and boating are all inclusive.If you’re more adventurous a free shuttle over to Dunk Is and you can indulge in jet skiing or book a reef tour at extra cost.

Superbly appointed, each villa has a separate living area, contemporary bathroom and king size bed. On the balcony, guests can relax in a hammock and contemplate the beauty and calm of this elegant retreat.

The most luxurious room is number 1 “The Point” which was situated down a private path at least 70 metres from your nearest neighbours. The Point offered ultimate privacy, a wonderful plunge infinity pool, staggering views and pleasant breezes (which in the summer heat and humidity will be welcome). Watch out for the wildlife though: lizards and the occasional snake on the path at night.

Bedarra is well known for its fantastic food with an emphasis on local seafood. Sample local delicacies on the open-air terrace restaurant, with a freshly prepared menu every day. A popular lunch option is a romantic beach picnic with a gourmet hamper.

Although after a day or two you may summer up the energy for a short bush walk or sail on a catamaran the whole point of somewhere like Bedarra is to chill out and be in a perfectly beautiful environment. Although Internet access is available and all rooms include LCD TV’s and DVD-players you wonder why. Surely this is a resort designed for doozing on a hammock with a good book.