We Recommend – Two days at the newly opened One&Only Hayman Island

This Monday, we’re battling our blues with thoughts of the Great Barrier Reef and ultra-luxury accommodations. Now I know this isn’t the most obvious pairing that comes to mind. But with luxury travellers, world over starting to seek indulgence with a hefty doze of adventure, the two stand to soon turn synonymous. Especially with One&Only Hayman Island proving that they should.

one-and-only-hayman-inner-reef-blue-pearl-bayThe leading resort brand has just launched its Hayman Island property, right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Nestled off the coast of Queensland at the northernmost point of the Whitsunday archipelago, the private island setting provides astonishing natural beauty and restorative peace, both. Besides opportunities for great adventure, to which, One&Only has lent the element of indulgence, perfect against the Coral Sea backdrop.

one-and-only-hayman-arrival-experience-seaplaneFrom getting there through the Great Barrier Reef airport to Ocean massages and spectacular dining experiences, One&Only Hayman Island is “a unique destination of discovery set in one of the seven wonders of the natural world.” Which is why we thought, why stop here. Even if trip might be a tad far away, why delay making the plans that involve direct access to the Great Barrier Reef and world-famous Whitehaven Beach. So, we’ve listed a two-day itinerary replete with luxury yacht transfers, bespoke dining experiences, underwater adventures and exhilarating helicopter and seaplane tours.

one-and-only-hayman-penthouse-livingroomJust like we had said, on Day 1, you start by arriving in style from the Great Barrier Reef Airport to One&Only Hayman Island via a luxury yacht. But if you’d like, they even offer helicopter or seaplane transfers for that rare chance of an aerial view soak. And from sensational aerial views to those from the villas, suites and rooms- three distinct accommodation areas, all offer breathtaking views. That said we have fallen for the sweeping views of One&Only Hayman Beach, the Coral Sea and the Whitsundays from the Penthouse. With a print-astic Diane von Furstenberg two-bedroom version also available for those out on a a chic-ation, the one, two and the three bedroom penthouses are all located on the top floor of the One&Only Hayman Wing on the tranquil eastern side of the resort.

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one-and-only-hayman-island-beach-villaAnd when you’re done taking in the luxe ambience, lush landscape and expansive pools, all from within the confines of your holiday abode and with a cocktail or two, you can trundle off to The Chef’s Table. Partnering with Perrier Jouet Champagne, One&Only Hayman Island has created a six-course dinner artfully paired with unique wines, which is served within the Main Kitchen of the resort. On the off chance that you’ve set out early, Bar Fifty opens for tea serving savory snacks and sweet delicacies in the afternoon. In case, you’re more like us and want to keep the cocktail party going, make your way through the menu of smooth Gascony Armagnacs and fine Cognacs or try the Meduse smoking cocktails or both. Anyone with a Spanish food fixation can then nibble on Tapas at Aquazure, also a killer spot for sundowners, we’re told.

one-and-only-hayman-beach-house-with-pool-interiorThe next day, rise to a delish spread in the privacy of your balcony, overlooking the azure color of the Coral Sea. In case Day 2 is coinciding with a Sunday, however, we recommend you try Pacific’s Sunday Brunch. Here, one can expect anything from oysters, Bloody Marys, pizzas, king crab to caviar. And that’s not even the best part. The restaurant is not only made of glass but also perched right by the sand and food is served inside, outside and on the beach, “all with energetic enthusiasm”. After a hearty breakfast, you simply have to take a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef and explore this natural wonder of the world.

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one-and-only-hayman-spa-rainforest-massage“One&Only Hayman Island offers a variety of ways to explore and experience the reef including seaplane and helicopter tours, diving and snorkeling explorations and fishing adventures.” And just when you think this is bound to be fun, albeit exhausting, you have a treat waiting- a One&Only Spa signature spa experience like an Ocean Dreaming Massage or a serene Rainforest Massage. For the little ones too, KidsOnly provides fun activities like reef ranger outings, fish feeding, beach games, tennis, evening nature walks and visits to the famous Chocolate Room. From here, it is on to Bamboo.

one-and-only-hayman-bambooIf you’re looking for an interactive experience, you don’t have to think beyond Bamboo. Besides serving best of Pan Asian cuisine, it boasts outdoor Teppanyaki decks. For honeymooners and privacy seekers in general, there are intimate dining platforms scattered throughout the bamboo grove, or a ceremonial teahouse. Alternatively, one also has the choice of savoring authentic Italian at Amici or haute Australia-influenced cuisine at the Fire, the resort’s signature restaurant. After all this, we wouldn’t be complaining when we depart One&Only Hayman Island the next morning and return to Great Barrier Reef Airport.

one-and-only-hayman-spa-ocean-massageRoom rates start from $555 onwards. An Ocean Dreaming massage will set you back $375 and the Rain Forest Massage, $245

Address:
One & Only Hayman Island
Great Barrier Reef
Queensland 4801
Australia
Tel No : +61 7 4940 1234
[One-&-Only-Hayman-Island]

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