There’s been a private island resort on Hayman Island for years, frequented, for the most part, by Aussies looking for a step beyond the traditional sunshine coast getaways. And, I suppose, divers who needed a Great Barrier Reef headquarters. But as far as the rest of the world goes, this Coral Sea haven hasn’t made it on a whole lot of ‘bucket lists’, until now.
The bold birds of Hayman Island are rather partial to dark chocolate and fine diamonds. So warns Stephen, my Aussie butler, as he jovially tells of the search for a guest’s keepsake bracelet in the lush resort gardens. Naughty wild cockatoos had snatched it from the dressing table after “Madame” had inadvertently left the grand suite’s patio doors ajar. A symbolic reminder of just how much man’s attempts at island life delightfully revolve around the forces of nature and its creatures.
Ooohs and aaahs
With an epic $80 million spend which re-imagined and refurbished accommodations, restaurants, public spaces and pools, the One and Only team has come on board to take the experience up a notch, or three! (Their first resort is the Asia Pacific Region.) It’s hard for even the most “been
there done that” traveller’s jaw not to drop at the resort’s online photo gallery. But as Homefront promises, our real proof is in heading way down under, to the northernmost point of Australia’s Whitsunday Archipelago to check on what’s quickly becoming this season’s most talked about new destination.
Seaplane, helicopter or the resort’s grand white yacht are options from Hamilton Island Airport. Admittedly, it’s been a bit of a trek for us Canucks through L.A. to Brisbane and on to Hamilton Island, but beautiful things seldom come easy. Once we’re off the runway however, it’s but a short walk to where the One and Only’s yacht is moored (via customs—don’t forget the visa), followed by a smooth and sunny 50 minute launch ride. Champagne is served; the excitement builds and discreet check in details are quickly taken care of before we arrive.
Upon my arrival, Stephen, my personal butler awaits dockside to escort me to my generous Pool Wing suite that features swim out access from the terrace—a first ever. A hop, skip and a jump and I’m in the pool.
Stylishly elegant
Like others in the pool wing, my suite features a separate bedroom, a sizeable dining and lounge area, private double terrace and a lovely ensuite bathroom with separate soaker tub, shower and double vanity. Other guests who have chosen penthouse suites on the eastern side of the resort have the option of the two-bedroom Diane von Furstenberg Penthouse. Bold and striking, it features a spacious lounge and dining area, designed by the world acclaimed fashion designer.
Natural Beauty
After travelling across the globe, I am primed for a bit of pampering. The One and Only Spa offers a full menu of relaxing delights. Treatments are inspired by local surroundings. Discover Amala, a crafted skincare collection, comprised of rejuvenating, hydrating, purifying and detoxifying elements are exclusive to the One and Only Spa.
For those looking for some outdoor activity, the water sports are in full gear as well at the marina—snorkels, Jet Skis, diving and paddleboats. Just don’t interrupt the sea turtles (and mind the jellyfish). A wide variety of expeditions are available to take us on whichever adventure strikes our fancy. I feel distinctly Robinson Crusoe (or maybe Lord of the Flies), as the boat drops us off on a barren sandbar in the baking sun, promising to come back in a couple of hours. My fingers are crossed that they do, since there’s no coffee shop here!
Never fear—the boat returns in time to get ready for dinner. With seven diverse restaurants and bars, each with its own quintessential style, Australia’s most comprehensive on-island cellar and a collection of bespoke dining experiences, it’s heaven for foodies.
www.oneandonlyhaymanisland.com.au/
Photos: One and Only Resorts
