There’s a lot to be said for taking the road less traveled – or in some of these cases, there’s not even a road to take. When you’re stepping on land that so few have touched, that’s what we call rarefied travel. So, hop on your chopper, or trek with your expedition. These are far flung resorts that will make for once-in-a-lifetime trips.
The Resort: Southern Ocean Lodge
The Location: Kangaroo Island, Australia
Get ready to live it up while luxuriating down under. While it may look like a tiny speck on a map, the adorably named Kangaroo Island packs quite the punch; and Southern Ocean Lodge is all about experiencing it all. Perched on sprawling green cliffs overlooking the Southern Ocean, the resort emphasizes the unique nature, wildlife, and culture of “Australia’s Galapagos.” And this isn’t your average hotel. Of course, it includes gorgeous coastal suites, decadent dining, and a state-of-the-art spa. But, what really makes the long journey worthwhile is the resort’s Signature Experiences. You can live your best life while kicking it with kangaroos at Hanson Bay Sanctuary or snapping selfies with sea lions at Seal Bay. Cuteness overload.
How to get here: Kangaroo Island can be reached by direct flight from Adelaide Airport or via 45-minute ferry from Cape Jervis. The lodge is a 50-minute drive from the airport and a 90-minute drive from the ferry terminal. Airport transfers are included for guests flying on scheduled flights to and from Kangaroo Island Airport.
The Resort: Bawah Reserve
The Location: Anambas, Indonesia
It doesn’t get much more far-flung than Bawah Reserve. Accessible only by private seaplane, Bawah Reserve spreads across six islands in Indonesia’s Anambas Archipelago. All of the resort’s accommodations are stand-alone, meaning no nosy neighbors or loud lobbies to disturb the immaculate island vibes. Whether you choose to stay in a suite, bungalow, villa, or lodge, you’ll get the privacy of your own slice of heaven with all the luxuries of a five-star resort. It’s also basically an adult summer camp, offering countless activities for every interest. You can take advantage of the pristine waters and rich marine life around Bawah with kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and reef-cleaning. Or, embrace Indonesian culture with an Indonesian cooking class, Jamu Health Tonic workshop, Batik making workshop, or traditional dance lesson.
How to get here: Guests can reach the Anambas archipelago via one of Bawah’s private seaplanes. The seaplanes fly out of Hang Nadim Airport on the island of Batam, which is easily accessible from Singapore and Jakarta.
The Resort: Explora Rapa Nui
The Location: Easter Island, Chile
We’ve all seen the iconic Easter Island “heads” in movies and TV shows. Now you can get up close and personal with the colossal statues like never before. Explora Rapa Nui brings modern glam and bucket-list experiences to the remote countryside of Easter Island. The lodge itself is every traveler’s dream. Contemporary architecture mixed with rustic, natural accents completely immerse you in the rugged landscape and rich culture of Rapa Nui. The Explora experience is curated around, fittingly, explorations. So dust off the hiking boots shoved in the back of your closet and get ready to trek to the moai statues, ascend volcanoes, and uncover ancient archaeological sites. With 30 guided explorations included in your stay, you’ll be one of the few people who can say they’ve explored one of the most remote locations on Earth. Total travel bragging rights.
How to get here: The only way to access Easter Island is by direct flight from Santiago, Chile. Once you land, Explora Rapa Nui is only a 15-minute drive from Easter Island’s Mataveri Airport. Round-trip airport transportation is included in your stay.
The Resort: Amanpulo
The Location: Pamalican Island, The Philippines
Aman has done it again. This time with Amanpulo — a lavish hideaway on The Philippines’ Pamalican Island. Leave the hustle and bustle of Manila behind and head over to this lush resort designed to feel like your home far, far, far away from home. Composed entirely of stand-alone accommodations, Amanpulo offers absolute refuge to jet-setters looking to seriously disconnect. Even better, all of the resort’s villas and casitas are either located on the beachfront or nestled in the forest canopy. Feel free to ditch your Spotify subscription, because the lapping of waves and chirping of seabirds is the only soundtrack you’ll need during your stay.
How to get here: Amanpulo can be reached exclusively by private flights between Manila and Pamalican Island. Amanpulo will coordinate guest’s airport transfers to the resort, located less than five kilometers away.
The Resort: NIHI Sumba
The Location: Tambolaka, Sumba, Indonesia
When it comes to remote luxury, NIHI Sumba sets the bar in outer space. The resort is home to 28 uniquely designed villas that will check every box on your island wishlist. Infinity pools overlooking the ocean? Check. Palm-thatched roofs? Check. Plunge pools tucked away in the jungle? Check. This place looks more like something out of an animated Disney film than a real resort. But don’t bother pinching yourself — NIHI Sumba is most definitely real. And on top of its opulent accommodations, the resort provides unparalleled access to the island of Sumba, as well as its vibrant culture. Self-described as an “exotic playground,” NIHI Sumba offers ample activities and excursions for all ages. The more adventure-minded guests can participate in kite-surfing, mountain biking, or spearfishing. Or, explore the ancient island by trekking through rice paddies and hiking to hidden waterfalls.
How to get here: Tambolaka, Sumba can be reached by commercial flight from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, as well as via chartered flights from Labuan Bajo. Once on the island, NIHI Sumba is a 90-minute drive from the airport.
The Resort: Fogo Island Inn
The Location: Fogo Island, Newfoundland, Canada
When most people think of island getaways, they imagine sun-drenched sandy beaches and shady green palm trees. But, the Fogo Island Inn offers a brand new type of coastal getaway. Located off the northeast coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island combines untouched nature with the homey charm of a close-knit fishing community. The Inn prides itself on demonstrating Fogo Island’s rugged beauty to its visitors. That’s why each of its 29 guest rooms feature floor to ceiling windows overlooking the ocean. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while watching the waves break over the rocky shores. Included in your stay are plenty of activities that will allow you to explore the island and experience the unique Fogo culture. Discover the natural flora and fauna with berry-picking, whale and wildlife watching, and pond-fishing. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more interactive, get a lesson on boat-making, take a jam and jelly making class, or channel your inner Survivor with a bushcraft workshop.
How to get here: Fogo Island can be reached directly by private flight or helicopter, as well as commercially via Gander Airport. From Gander, the Inn can coordinate car and ferry transfer onto the island for an additional charge.
The Resort: Explora Patagonia National Park
The Location: Patagonia, Chile
If your goal for a vacation is to get off the grid, then look no further than Explora Patagonia National Park. And we’re not talking “slower internet and slightly outside of town” off the grid. We’re talking “the nearest airport is five hours away” off the grid. This place is literally in the middle of nowhere. Well, technically it’s in the middle of Chile’s Chacabuco Valley. And while some people’s idea of off the grid includes setting an out of office message and sipping a margarita beach-side, this resort is definitely geared towards the outdoorsiest of travelers. The cozy stone lodge is dominated by the imposing presence of the Chacabuco Mountains and is home to a comprehensive spa, a restaurant that highlights the traditional gaucho cuisine, and a bar serving the region’s world-renowned wines. Sign me up immediately. Plus, there are over 30 explorations that will take you adventuring across the Patagonian landscape. Whether you’re soaring over the Northern Patagonian Ice Field in a helicopter, sailing through the crystalline waters of the Cochrane River, or hiking through puma habitats, Explora offers all the ingredients to conquer Patagonia by land, air, and sea.
How to get here: To reach the resort, guests must fly from Santiago to Balmaceda Airport. Explora provides one airport transfer per day (the ride from/to takes approximately five hours). You can also book a private flight between Balmaceda Airport and Cochrane.
FAQs:
Q: Does Explora Rapa Nui include complimentary airport transportation?
A: Yes, round trip airport transportation is included in your stay at Explora Rapa Nui.
Q: Does NIHI Sumba offer activities for children?
A: Yes, NIHI Sumba offers numerous activities for children, such as horseback riding, chocolate making classes, and traditional weaving workshops.
Q: Can Bawah Reserve be reached my commercial flights?
A: No, Bawah Reserve can only be reached by one of the resort’s private seaplanes.
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