Qualia Great Barrier Reef

Qualia is a private resort situated on the northern tip of Hamilton Island, the largest and most established island in the Whitsundays, just 16 kilometres off the Queensland coast. Hamilton Island is the only island in the Whitsundays with its own commercial airport. The island’s hub for retail and dining is the waterfront Marina Village.

With 70 per cent of the island’s bushland protected by national park, Hamilton Island’s lush interior is laced with bushwalking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, where breathtaking vistas take in the Whitsunday Islands and Coral Sea.

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS
The Whitsundays are situated just off the Queensland Coast and are a protected archipelago of islands. Whitsunday Island is the largest in the group, while Hamilton Island is the focal point for air access, restaurants and Great Barrier Reef activities.

Fabled the world over for its pure-white sand, Whitehaven Beach stretches for 7 kilometres on Whitsunday Island and is just a 30-minute sail or memorable scenic flight from qualia.

The Whitsundays is a renowned sailing destination for leisurely yachting from uninhabited tropical islands to sheltered moorings on nearby coral cays. The beaches and untouched bushland of the islands are protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

GREAT BARRIER REEF 
qualia on Hamilton Island is located on the eastern edge of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. The world’s largest and most diverse coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is paradise for wildlife-watching, diving and snorkelling.

Made up of almost 3,000 reefs and more than 900 islands, the entire reef stretches for over 2,600 kilometres. The reef’s 350-plus types of corals are made up of hard and soft coral polyps.

Dozens of species of marine life swim in these warm tropical waters, including whales and rare dugongs, plus more than 40 species of seabirds, sea turtles and an amazing 1,500 species of tropical fish. From qualia, take a private charter cruise to spend the day snorkelling and diving. Or, scenic flights reveal the reef’s turquoise beauty from the air.

THE OATLEY FAMILY 
The Oatleys are a passionate family who believe in sharing their love for Australia’s incredible natural beauty and unique lifestyle with the rest of the world. It is these qualities that have established qualia as a significant destination.

Situated on tropical Hamilton Island, qualia was conceived by the late Bob Oatley, renowned Australian winemaker and patriarch of the Oatley family, whose legacy his son, Sandy and the Oatley family uphold today.

Together they have created a luxurious sanctuary where the natural beauty of this secluded part of the island with its spectacular and tranquil environment can be enjoyed in total peace and relaxation.

CREATING QUALIA
qualia’s harmonious design is the work of Australian designer Chris Beckingham. In partnership with the Oatley family, the design philosophy was to create a luxurious Australian retreat that stimulates the senses and draws the outside in.

The resort has been designed and built to honour and harmoniously blend with the unique and spectacular surrounding natural environment; while at the same time protecting and respecting it.

The resulting design combines a unique sense of space, openness and harmony. Set amongst native Eucalypts, each luxury pavilion has been handcrafted from the finest imported and local timber and stone.

LEEWARD PAVILIONS
Relax and unwind in a qualia Leeward Pavilion. Carefully positioned in the natural environment of the tropical surroundings, the south-west facing Leeward Pavilions offer a luxury escape and serene outlook over the Whitsunday landscape to the Coral Sea.

With a deep private terrace, the spacious one-bedroom Leeward Pavilions provide Hamilton Island luxury accommodation in Australian tropical island style. The sea breeze gently flows through the louvre windows and the well-appointed lounge area leads to the sundeck shaded by Eucalypts.

Cool hardwood polished floors, timber details and a subtle colour palette create a uniquely stylish Australian beach house ambience. qualia is exclusively for guests ages 16 or over.

WINDWARD PAVILIONS 
qualia’s Windward Pavilions provide flawless design, understated décor and each with a beautiful private plunge pool and expansive Whitsunday views. Shaded by Eucalypts and set in the tropical landscape, the sea breeze flows gently through the louvre windows, and the polished hardwood timber floors and floor-to-ceiling glass provide a unique Australian hideaway.

Relax in the king size bed and take in the breathtaking ocean views, or step from the beautifully appointed living room onto the north-facing sundeck to enjoy the private infinity-edge pool. Generously proportioned, qualia’s Windward Pavilion Whitsundays accommodation is relaxed beach house luxury redefined on the Great Barrier Reef.

BEACH HOUSE
Experience the effortless luxury and total privacy of the exclusive Beach House at qualia. Its space, panoramic views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands, private lap pool and secluded location make this residence the ultimate hideaway.

Generously proportioned and designed in a light and airy open-plan style, the Beach House features a main bedroom and ensuite bathroom, a spacious entertaining area, 10-person dining room, 12-metre infinity edge private pool, and a well-appointed separate guesthouse for friends or family. qualia’s Beach House is sublime and the best place to unwind offering the ultimate Hamilton Island escape.

GUEST SERVICES
qualia’s guest services team provide intuitive and friendly service from the moment guests arrive at the Hamilton Island Airport or Marina. The thoughtful, expert team are on hand at all times to help with anything that is needed, including providing VIP transfers day and night.

Guests also have access to an electric golf buggy for their own private use around qualia or Hamilton Island. Once a reservation is made at qualia, book a pre-arrival consultation with the luxury concierge to find out more about qualia’s activities including tours to the Great Barrier Reef, diving, sailing in the Whitsundays, Spa qualia and qualia’s signature Talk and Taste experience.

DINING
qualia sources and serves only the freshest and best local and international produce at its Pebble Beach and Long Pavilion restaurants, each with mesmerising views over the Whitsundays.

qualia’s menus have been thoughtfully created to show the synergy between the natural beauty of the landscape and an inherent respect for produce and producer.

With an ethos around using natural and organic food that is produce-driven, qualia’s executive chef John Kennedy (image left) and head chef Ryan Locke (image right) share a philosophy that is centred on balancing classical and modern flavours with the tropical climate.

Sourcing the best Australian produce, including locally hand-caught seafood and produce from qualia’s own kitchen garden, dishes are fresh, simply prepared and reflect the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays.

BREAKFAST AT LONG PAVILION
Start the day with breakfast at qualia’s Long Pavilion restaurant, facing directly out to Whitsunday Island. Cool sea breezes flow through an expansive open framework of timber and glass, creating the perfect early morning environment.

The breakfast menu focuses on fresh, healthy food and dishes are prepared simply. Breakfast begins with a starter board, before selecting from the a la carte menu.

LUNCH AT WATERFRONT
Perfectly positioned on Hamilton Island’s northern-most point, qualia’s Pebble Beach restaurant presents lunchtime dining at its relaxed best. The food here is contemporary Australian, featuring seasonal, sustainable and ethical produce, sourced from like-minded farmers, producers and artisans around the country.

Positioned on Hamilton Island’s northern-most waterfront, overlooking the Coral Sea and surrounding Whitsunday Islands, Pebble Beach is qualia’s signature dining experience. Lunch here is dining at its relaxed best.

IN PAVILION DINING
qualia’s guest pavilions are tucked away into the surrounding bushland, creating a private sanctuary. Benefit from the beauty and stillness of the Whitsunday and ocean views from the pavilion at morning and take breakfast on the private sundeck. The Long Pavilion qualia breakfast is served from the In-Pavilion Dining menu.

POOLSIDE SERVICE 
The Pebble Beach restaurant lunch menu is also available to order poolside or in a cabana at the Pebble Beach infinity edge pool. Swim, relax and take in the views overlooking the surrounding Whitsunday waters and enjoy the warm sunshine. Pebble Beach Bar also offers poolside bar service into the afternoon.

With an exceptional balance of produce, flavours and presentation, the six-course tasting menu at Pebble Beach is a celebration of tempting dishes. Pebble Beach restaurant fine dining is complemented by premium Australian and imported wines from the restaurant’s superb sommelier-compiled wine list.

LONG PAVILION RELAXED DINING 
qualia’s Long Pavilion restaurant serves Australian produce with a well-edited wine list and drinks menu to match. qualia’s relaxed dining experience at Long Pavilion is one of the best locations on Hamilton Island to watch a Whitsunday sunset. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink or evening nightcap while relaxing in the lounge at qualia’s Long Pavilion bar.

SAKE & SASHIMI
Indulge in this food and wine signature experience and a slice of Japanese culture with our Sake and Sashimi tastings at qualia Long Pavilion.

Journey through one of Japan’s oldest and most famous culinary traditions as some of the finest sake is individually matched with Australia’s highest quality, sashimi-grade fish. Learn the polishing process of rice and how it achieves the most delicate, aromatic and elegant sake in the world.

CHAMPAGNE & OYSTERS
The ultimate in complementary tastes, Champagne and oysters represent subtle and elegant flavours and are one of the finest expressions of luxury. This is a unique tasting experience as different styles of oyster are paired with the French Champagnes.

It’s a culinary education that delivers a good understanding of the subtleties of this magical pairing. This is a fascinating exploration of famous Champagne houses and iconic oyster farm regions in Australia.

WINE & CHEESE
This is food and wine knowledge at its finest with a tasting experience held in qualia’s Long Pavilion, overlooking the Whitsunday Islands.

An indulgent afternoon of incredible cheeses from Australia and around the world, are enjoyed with fine wines from both old world and new world vineyards. qualia resort’s sommelier leads the tasting and explains the nuances of this classic pairing, giving great insight into cheese and wine.

SPA & WELLNESS
‘qualia’ is a Latin word for a collection of deeper sensory experiences. Spa qualia is placed at the heart of the resort and is perfectly situated to catch the soft sea breezes and tranquillity of the beautiful surroundings, making it the ideal place to unwind.

The spa ethos surrounds a contemporary yet natural approach to day spa, creating individual ‘me time’ with holistic therapies to engage the senses. Our spa treatments are thoughtfully designed to balance the synergy between mind and body and to capture the essence of Australia and the Great Barrier Reef.

Spa qualia utilises Australian ranges Sodashi, LaGaia UNEDITED, People4Ocean and Hunter Lab, which embody the spa ethos with luxe, contemporary, natural and effective ingredients.

Experience the legacy of Spa qualia with one of three uniquely designed signature spa treatments, which capture the essence of qualia’s pristine location. Choose the Driftaway Sensory Journey, the Whitsunday Escape or the qualia Essence and with use of our finest ingredients, melodic rhythm, touch and aromas, be taken on a journey of the senses.

COUPLES BATH INDULGENCES
Experience the ultimate luxury and enjoy some spa time with a loved one in our awakening of the senses private qualia roman bath suites. Botanica, Cacao Indulgence and Vinotherapie are all about a shared experience.

WHITSUNDAY ESCAPE
Capturing the essence of the Great Barrier Reef, this signature treatment engages the senses in the aromas of our pristine environment. It includes a full body exfoliation and mud wrap; private rain shower; aromatic full body massage; heat therapy; hair and scalp treatment; and a marine mineral facial with moisturisation.

VINOTHERAPIE 
Indulge in qualia’s signature couples package with a full body relaxation massage, pinot noir body exfoliation and kaolin clay mineral body masque rich in antioxidant properties. A petite Sodashi facial, hair and scalp treatment will revitalise the skin. Enjoy private use of rain showers and roman bath, fruit platter and a choice of champagne or pinot noir.

CONTOURING BODY RITUAL
This begins with a full body dry brushing and targeted invigorating massage technique to stimulate circulation, followed by a warm body masque rich in marine extracts and plant essences to firm and tone.

The active ingredients work on the lymphatic system removing toxins, which are a common factor in cellulite and uneven skin tone. Enjoy a relaxing hair and scalp treatment and a private outdoor rain shower with specialised contouring gel and lotion application for a firm and glowing beach body.

HEART CHAKRA RADIANCE FACIAL
Open the heart and release all tension. Starting with a chakra aligning lomi-style back massage incorporating essential oil blends, crystal placement along the spine and sound healing brings balance and harmony to the body’s chakra system. Tranquil facial techniques with healing white jade stimulate marma points to lift and firm. This combination facial will restore inner glow for optimal radiance.

HONEYMOONS 
Spend days by the pool and experience the bliss of soothing massage treatments at Spa qualia together. Discover the seclusion of a private beach or paddle a kayak through the tropical, crystal clear waters of Whitehaven Beach.

For the ultimate romantic experience, helicopter out to iconic Heart Reef on a Journey to the Heart tour and explore the Great Barrier Reef; or simply linger at qualia and relax in the luxury of a private pavilion.

LUXURY INCENTIVE DESTINATION 
Exclusive qualia is privately set within 30 acres of tropical gardens on the northern tip of Hamilton Island. With the only commercial island airport in the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island is accessible via direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns. qualia is then just minutes away with a VIP transfer.

qualia offers a collection of venues and experiences and is the perfect setting for an intimate executive retreat, as well as being available for complete resort buyout and exclusive use.

GUIDED BUSHWALKS
Bushwalking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Hamilton Island. Discover secluded sandy coves, climb to the top of the island for stunning views, or enjoy a qualia gourmet picnic at one of the island’s many picnic spots.

Bush trails are clearly mapped, or choose to take a guided tour. qualia’s lush surrounds can also be explored through a guided tour with a member of the qualia gardening team, who will explain the flora, fauna and aesthetics of qualia along the way.

BEACH SPORTS
Catseye Beach is the perfect wide-open bay to try out a catamaran, sea kayak or paddle board. The Beach Sports hut provides beach activity equipment to all guests on Hamilton Island and it is a favourite spot for families to soak up the sun and simply have a great day at the beach.

HAMILTON ISLAND WILDLIFE 
Observe and wonder at the power of nature and get up close to some of the most iconic Australian wildlife. Koalas and kangaroos, snakes and lizards are all in their natural bush environment at the accredited wildlife park on Hamilton Island.

GOURMET PICNICS 
Order an exclusive and delicious qualia gourmet picnic as light refreshment to sustain a hungry bushwalking tour; to enjoy after a local beach drop-off and swim; or to simply to savour on Whitehaven Beach after mooring or flying in by seaplane or helicopter. The qualia guest services team will be happy to arrange on request.

GOLF
Hamilton Island Golf Club, on neighbouring Dent Island, is one of the world’s most spectacular settings for a round of golf. Designed by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson, the Hamilton Island Golf Club is the only championship golf course on its own island in Australia.

Following an 18 or 9-hole round, enjoy a la carte lunch and admire the views over the Whitsundays from Hamilton Island Golf Clubhouse on neighbouring Dent Island. Catching the cross-breezes through the restaurant, this is another world.

PRIVATE CHARTERS 
​​Palm Beach is a luxury 55 foot motor yacht, designed and built by Palm Beach Motor Yachts for the exclusive use of Hamilton Island guests.

Skippered and hosted by an expert crew and available for full and half day private charters for up to 12 guests, cruise the surrounding Whitsundays in sublime style. Head out to the legendary Whitehaven Beach, Chalkies Beach or Hill Inlet and soak up the sunshine and incredible views around qualia and the Whitsunday Islands.

WHITEHAVEN WONDER
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach is one of the most unspoiled and pristine beaches in the world with its legendary bone white silica sand and crystal-clear waters. Sail to Whitehaven Beach and enjoy the incredible views across the Whitsundays, soak up the sunshine and swim at this remote and iconic Australian beach.

TOPNOTCH GAME FISHING
Topnotch Game Fishing takes advantage of its position in one of the most diverse and scenic fishing locations in the world and partners it with highly experienced local guides, quality gear and custom built boats (with toilet amenities) to provide you with a fishing experience to remember.

The Whitsundays is the ultimate fishing destination whatever your angling experience. Topnotch Game Fishing’s professional and friendly crew are on hand to offer as much or as little assistance as you desire.

SWIM, SNORKEL & SUNSET
Spend the day cruising the surrounding islands aboard the Ricochet catamaran, and explore nearby calm anchorages for snorkelling and swimming in the warm tropical waters of the Whitsundays.

The tour includes a visit to Hill Inlet with a guided walk to marvel at this unique landscape, plus snorkelling at Border or Esk Islands before cruising home to qualia whilst watching the spellbinding sunset.

DIVING 
Thrill in an amazing and unique full day adventure on Explore’s Snorkel and Dive the Great Barrier Reef, sailing to the outer reef and selected moorings around Bait Reef, the closest of the outer reef locations.

Accessed by Explore’s Reef Explorer vessel, dive directly off the vessel’s diving platform for an undersea adventure. Choose to spend the day snorkelling, or add on an epic and unforgettable dive experience.

LOCAL BEACH DROP-OFFS 
A personalised beach drop-off is available to all guests staying at qualia, subject to availability, weather conditions and tides.

The beach activities team at qualia’s Pebble Beach will help suggest the best local beach depending on the day’s conditions and organise preferred drop off and pick up times. A qualia gourmet picnic pack is an added extra. Soak up the sun and the privacy that comes with a secluded beach.

SUNSET CRUISE
Hamilton Island is known for its magical sunsets and one of the best ways to take in a Whitsundays sunset is onboard a luxury motor yacht. Relaxed and peaceful, Sunset Cruise perfectly sets course through the calm Whitsunday waters to capture this magnificent moment as the sun drops down to the horizon in blazing glory. A picture perfect moment.

JOURNEY TO THE HEART
qualia’s Journey to the Heart tour is the ultimate Great Barrier Reef adventure to the iconic Heart Reef. The tour starts with a 30-minute helicopter flight over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and Heart Reef, before landing on the private Heart Island pontoon helipad. Swim and snorkel in the lagoon and then boat up close to the beating heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

SEAPLANE & HELICOPTER TOUR 
Experience the incredible and unique geography of the region with an exciting scenic flight by helicopter or seaplane over the Whitsundays.

Take in the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and Heart Reef, plus the magnificent Hill Inlet, before landing on Whitehaven Beach for a chance to soak up the sun and swim in the crystal clear waters. The aerial views of the iconic Australian natural world are breathtaking and one of the most beautiful memories of any flight.

A helicopter flight over the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef offers unparalleled aerial views of the amazing seascapes and is one of the best ways to witness these great wonders.

This tour includes 60-minutes of flying, encompassing views of the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and world-famous Heart Reef, before landing at Cruise Whitsundays’ Reefworld pontoon. At Reefworld, spend 90 minutes snorkelling and coral viewing from the underwater viewing chamber.

HAMILTON ISLAND RACE WEEK 
Hamilton Island Race Week is Australia’s most prestigious offshore yachting regatta, attracting local and international sailors and yachts.

The renowned regatta program includes categories for Grand Pix top-class racers, an IRC Passage class for modern fast-cruising yachts, performance racing and sports boat classes. There are also cruising, corporate, bareboat and non-spinnaker divisions.

Race Week is celebrated across Hamilton Island and particularly at qualia with an impressive series of world-class chef’s table dinners, exclusive lunches and masterclasses, all overseen by the expert teams at qualia.

On-shore activities on the island include watching the daily racing start from the deck at Hamilton Island Yacht Club, the fascinating daily race briefings at the marina and entertainment every evening at the Marina Village.

Rooms: 60

Price: from 1.485 EUR per night

Source: www.qualia.com.au