Acquisitions & Hotel Openings

Orpheus - The New Tropical Jewel on Australia's Doorstep

January 24, 2012 - After undergoing a recent upgrade, Orpheus, set in the heart of the world's natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, is reopening its doors on 3 March 2012 to offer guests the ultimate in tropical escapism.

Be it a getaway that's packed full of adventure and activity, or a more private and intimate hideaway, Orpheus is emerging as the new undiscovered tropical destination, right here in Australia.

Just 80 kilometres north of Townsville (25 minute scenic flight), the tranquil island stretches across 11 kilometres of immaculate turquoise coastline, and comprises of a pristine National Park and surrounding World Heritage listed Marine Park. The fringing reef surrounding Orpheus is one of the Great Barrier Reef's most spectacular and diverse and unlike other island resorts, guests aren't required to travel offshore to experience it. It's not uncommon for guests to swim alongside Green Turtles, Manta Rays and Humpback Whales.

Nestled in the sheltered Hazard Bay on the western side of the island, the resort is laid without fanfare along a ribbon of serene beach and features rooms, suites and villas, a main pavilion bar and restaurant, and an inviting 26m x 13m infinity pool that overlooks the Coral Sea.

Accommodating just 34 indulged guests at any one time; Orpheus offers absolute seclusion and serenity! Perfect as a holiday destination, a picturesque wedding setting, or booked in its entirety for exclusive use, Orpheus is a rare island of exceptional beauty.

Unlike other islands, Orpheus offers guests a plethora of once in a lifetime experiences; be it a fishing trip where the day's catch is grilled on an open fire of a nearby cove; an indigenous-led tour of the culturally-rich neighbouring islands; or taking a dinghy and chef-prepared gourmet picnic hamper and discovering the many pristine bays and reefs that fringe Orpheus. Alternatively, it provides the perfect backdrop for a more private and quieter interlude if guests wish to shut off from the outside world.

The newly refurbished beachfront accommodation combines 'tropical sanctuary' with a 'contemporary minimalist' aesthetic. All accommodation types offer natural colour schemes, Bose iPod docks, Daintree Essentials products, crisp white linen and private terraces that boast panoramic Hazard Bay views and languid sea breezes.

Best suited to the island's tropical climate, the two dining areas, one alfresco-style and the other a restaurant, offer a light, contemporary and daily-changing menu that showcases the riches of the region. The island's signature experience, 'Dining with the Tides', allows guests to enjoy an intimate dinner for two on the pier under a starlit canopy.

Orpheus has a rich history stemming back to 1930. Once a few humble huts dotted along the beach run with the assistance of local indigenous people, it still today exudes an innocent charm and unpretentious nature. Today, the local indigenous employees play an integral role in the operations of the resort and their expert knowledge of the region makes for an unforgettable cultural guest experience.

Orpheus is an ideal destination for partners or families seeking unique adventure and memorable experiences, couples after a romantic escape, or private use for weddings, milestones and major celebrations.

Prices start from $1,400 (twin-share) per night, which includes all meals, house wine and beers, and unlimited use of sea equipment. Flight time is approximately 3 hours from Sydney, 3.5 hours from Melbourne and 2.5 hours from Brisbane.

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