R&R indulgence at Qualia on Hamilton Island is only a direct flight away from major Australian cities. For the short stay with someone special, everything you need is here and more. Will Bird discovers a magical way to unwind and spend some quality time with a loved one in one of Australia’s premier resorts.
The lowdown on Qualia
Qualia is world class on many levels.
Occupying the northern tip of Hamilton Island, the seclusion and views across to unspoilt Whitsunday Islands and its splendid waters are both breathtaking and to die for in the true sense of classic travel writing cliches. Qualia is a standout Australian expression of a luxury holiday at a global, top-level standard.
Just a 5-10 minute golf cart or car trip from the main Hamilton Island marina, you literally step off the plane and into a heavenly state of relaxation with a drink on arrival making check-in a pleasure, not a chore.
The room
Ours was an opulent one-bedroom pool villa executive suite overlooking Whitsunday Island on the leeward side. It was out of the wind and ticked all the boxes.
Space is a highlight here. The inside sitting room is separate from the bedroom, there’s an outside day bed, and a table by the private pool. While the fancy egg-shaped bath facing out to the water was used sparingly, it certainly didn’t take up much room in a bathroom of generous proportions fit for a King and Queen.
Beautiful linen and a choice of pillows as well as turn down and room make-up were all cleverly managed while we were out exploring or having another wonderful meal. That alone made it a purely delightful stay.
A lovely bottle of French champagne on arrival and sumptuous plate of fruit with various other treats daily were all warmly received. In fact, the test is when you fill your sponge bag with Qualia’s designer toiletries on departure! Whoops!
Facilities & Experiences
Efficient check-in with the postcard view made it a little hard to concentrate.
The pool bar and fine dining setting hugs one of the best pool areas we’ve ever seen, right on cue as the water was lapping at the shore.
Casual dining and breakfast in the main pavilion is set higher on the hill. Gyms, spas and a very well stocked gift shop all live up to the hype plus a wonderful library and quiet area is idea for anyone thinking of an email or work – but really, how could you?
The property was near full capacity and yet we never waited or felt like it was crowded. That’s a credit to such a well run establishment.
The activities out to the reef or nearby Whitehaven beach are endless for the adventure seekers not content to potter. We did the Virtuouso-included sunset cruise with champagne and seafood courtesy of booking our adventure through Executive Edge Travel.
You can take the Hobie Cat for a spin either under your own steam or with the staff, and big fish aren’t too far from the island where you can hook a catch of the day and bring back for the chef to cook.
Beautiful walks to Passage Peak at the other end of the island were well worth the effort and a lunch at the championship course at Dent Island is a must-do, even if you don’t like golf. We only did the lunch and I’m a keen golfer but I wasn’t disappointed.
Pampering
The spa and wellness treatments are nationally acclaimed, so expect the best and enjoy the rest.
The selection of treatments is extensive from the 60-minute massage to an unforgettable six-hour pampering session with an array of options.
Food
The degustation evening meal was exceptional and so was all the food in the Long Pavilion. Dine by candlelight here where you can enjoy the seasonal flavours of Modern Australian cuisine “as the stars come out to play” over the Whitsundays, as the official site aptly explains.
If the charms and temptation of your pavilion’s Whitsunday outlook and the comfort of your sunset-lit private deck are too good to refuse, opt for the fine dining standards of the Long Pavilion and Pebble Beach with in-pavilion dining options.
For lighter snacks either in your room or around the pool during the day, all are interesting, fresh and delicious. No ham and cheese toasties here!
The degustation evening meal was exceptional and so was all the food in the Long Pavilion. Dine by candlelight here where you can enjoy the seasonal flavours of Modern Australian cuisine “as the stars come out to play” over the Whitsundays
Point of difference
It’s sans-kids for grown-ups and special occasions with your nearest and dearest.
Think warm weather relaxation and being spoilt all the way. We encountered other guests on mum-and-daughter weekends, honeymooners, wedding anniversary couples, best friends having a few indulgent nights away and so on.
10 Words Or Less …
Australia’s No.1 world-class getaway ticks all the boxes.
Executive Edge Travel is a globally renowned leader for booking luxury travel experiences/properties.
To book contact your Executive Edge Travel Designer on 03 9519 7777 or email leisure@executiveedge.com.au
