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We leave behind Hayman some what disappointed but are optimistic about what our next destination might bring.
We land by launch back to Hamilton Island, the hub of the Whitsunday's. It's been 10 years since our original happy family holiday in a hillside apartment on an island with mixed reputations at the time. Lots of promise and many blocks underdevelopment. Well they haven't wasted anytime and the place is a vibrant highlight of the region.
Booked in at the highly recommended Beach Club Resort we are greeted by competent and enthusiastic staff who show up their Hayman backpacker counterparts for poise and confidence.
While waiting for bags, a last minute call to our host, who receives messages via a discreetly hidden earpiece, and we get upgraded to Qualia! Hmmm, is this a good thing? Let's see!
Gourmet Traveller magazine recently reported Qualia as "the ultra-sophisticated new Hamilton Island resort" and they are right. Chauffeured in luxury VW van we are warmly greeted at the stunning reception with Veuve Clicqout. Drawn by the spectacular views of seas and elegant timber decking that runs to the edge of an infinity plunge pool, you can't help but sink into the awaiting sofas. Time suddenly becomes irrelevant as we are briefed on the hotel and shown to our pavilion room including our personally allocated golf buggy.
The quality and style of Qualia hits you at every turn and the room is a delight to behold again with stunning views. Thoughts of our booking at the Beach club are lost and we feel very at home here.
Losing track of time, we explore the pool area on isolated Pebble beach and have a late lunch overlooking some of the most spectacular views in the area. Pinot Rose with superb reef fish and Thai Fishcakes hit the spot before unwinding to a mere standstill as we frolic in the second of their infinity pools. The main pool at Hayman is one of the best we've experienced but Qualia obviously understand what makes a great swimming hole, and we rate this the better.
Dinner at the cleverly designed Yacht Club is a success with design that maximizes the initimacy and viewing experience for all. Of course, Qualia do drop off at and pick up from the restaurant. We squeeze in a Espresso Martini before returning to our room deck for starry starry night on our lounge chairs.
A comfy bed for some but we still wake early in anticipation of enjoying our new resort home. The weather is patchy but a sumptuous cooked breakfast (not another buffet, thank heavens) provides breathtaking sights across the islands.
The buggy is a great way to explore Hamilton and there is plenty of beach, jetties, restaurants, shops, public pools and kid friendly amenities to see.
The weather looks ominous so we push the buggy to its limits to avoid a drenching. Phew made it!
The rest of the day is whittled away in our room with no regrets as their is room to relax, unwind, google, twitter, email and read books without bumping into each other all day. A lovely relaxing room where claustrophobia has no meaning and a complementary Champagne on ice is order of day.
A massage is a must for our lady traveller at one of Australia's leading Spa venues in order to break up the day. Unfortunately, we pack up tonight but with no regrets and know our dining experience at the "guests only" Qualia restaurant will be first rate.
Thanks Qualia for an outstanding experience. Can't fault you.
- comments
Jarryd Porter Nice! Sounds like you were lucky with the upgrade!!