WAKE UP TO THE KIMBERLEY

Everything at Berkeley River Lodge takes visitors to towering heights of sensual experience. The Kimberley sports Australia’s most complex palette of colour, landscapes, marine life and native flora and fauna. To reach this inspirational lodge requires a journey by seaplane from Kununurra, overflying endless miles of cattle stations, diamond and iron ore country, rugged coastlines and eye-catching deltas. A landing on the Berkeley River is followed by a safari drive to the lodge, through a dramatic system of dunes. The lodge, 65m above sea level, means stunning views of the Berkeley River gorges and the cobalt-brilliant Timor Sea.

Wake to a thrilling sunrise and intense daylight hues that constantly shift and, after sunset, you gaze up at a brilliant veil of overhead constellations. Perched on the awesome coastal dunes are twenty commodious, bush vernacular villas that offer vistas to east and west – either a sensational sea sunrise or a Kimberley sunset. The colours of the landscape are carried through into the villa interiors and bathing is al fresco.

Exploration of the gorge, dunes and rugged coast can be as intense as you wish: fishing expeditions, guided hikes, river cruises, helicopter flights, and four-wheel-drive tours. Otherwise guests can pause in the mesmerising embrace of this Australian landscape by slipping into the elevated lap pool. This is a deeply peaceful place within a slowed fold of time.

In the early evening, a purple-washed sky is the backdrop to the central dining area that becomes an ethereal, coastal beacon. In synch with the tempo of the place, dinner is a casual affair with sophisticated food by the Executive Chef. In one of the most remote restaurants in the land, his dégustation meals are faultless.

This lodge is as far from urban civilisation as it is possible to imagine. The magic of light and dark makes for an experience beyond reality.

Contact Paul for more information on 1800 047 047 or email him at: ppatane@conciergetraveller.com