Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea

SWAIN Preferred

SWAIN boasts a solid reputation in building relationships with various hotel and tour operators around the world. We search for products that are of unquestionable quality as well as for those that are unique to ensure we are able to offer SWAIN travelers a second-to-none travel experience. The services featured below were hand-picked to receive the seal of approval as a 'SWAIN Preferred' experience. To incorporate any or many of these choices into your itinerary is to ensure your trip will be that extra bit special and that you will be received not just as a special guest, but as a SWAIN special guest.

Some of these experiences are unique to Australia and New Zealand and are truly exceptional additions to your travel plans. From the luxury lodges and boutique hotels in New Zealand, to award-winning tours out to the Great Barrier Reef, historic train journeys, and charming accommodations along Australia's Great Ocean Road, we look forward to sharing our preferred selections with you.

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Hotels, Lodges and Resorts

New South Wales

Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa — Blue Mountains
Offering paramount luxury accommodation to travelers wanting something more, this resort exhibits a sanctuary of the finest accommodation, service, cuisine and facilities. It is cosseted within the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, and bordered by the Wollemi and the Gardens of Stone national parks, which is just 190 kilometres, or a three hour drive from Sydney. Learn More

Capella Lodge — Lord Howe Island

Attracting discerning guests seeking a more civilized and sophisticated escape, this lodge offers contemporary beach-style accommodations with just nine suites; personal service; exceptional dining and the option to enjoy a range of activities from soothing spa treatments to exploring the Island's famous twin mountains - Gower and Lidgbird - and snorkeling the world's southern-most reef.

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Mantra 2 Bond Street — Sydney

This hotel is ideally located within close proximity of a host of Sydney’s premier business and tourist attractions, including Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, The Stock Exchange and Sydney CBD.

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Park Hyatt Sydney — Sydney

Emerging from a dramatic transformation, the newly redesigned Park Hyatt Sydney brings a new level of contemporary luxury to the edge of Sydney Harbour.  One of a select brand of Park Hyatt hotels known throughout the world for its exceptional design and elegant style, Park Hyatt Sydney opened in 1990, quickly earning a reputation as Australia's most luxurious hotel, welcoming royalty, heads of state, corporate leaders, celebrities and a host of local and international guests who chose to make it home while in Sydney.

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Northern Territory

Mantra on the Esplanade — Darwin

Mantra on the Esplanade offers guests an unrivalled location near Darwin Harbour and the convenience of close proximity to Darwin’s CBD. The 4 1/2 star property boasts panoramic views across the harbour, out to the Arafura Sea and presents the ideal vantage point from which to experience a famous Northern Territory sunset.

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Longitude 131° — Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Luxurious, eco-sensitive and romantic, this hotel lies at the gateway of the dual World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, complete with 5-class luxury and private views of the sun rising and setting over Uluru (Ayers Rock). With just 15 tents in total, you only have to share this amazing experience with just a few others.

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Queensland

Pacific International — Cairns

The Pacific International Hotel is located right in the heart of Cairns, on the picturesque Cairns Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour. This 4.5 star hotel offers 176 spacious rooms with balconies, the popular Bushfire Flame Grill and Sugarcane Rhumbar. Opposite the hotel you find the main shopping precinct, casino and entertainment area.  The Pacific International Hotel is the ideal base for visitors who wish to explore the spectacular attractions of Tropical North Queensland.

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Silky Oaks Lodge — Daintree Rainforest

Experience the soothing sights and sounds of the rainforest at this lodge, nestled on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park. The Lodge blends casual and contemporary design, amongst the most tranquil surrounds. 50 Treehouses and Riverhouses each feature wide verandahs and spa baths. Enjoy fine food and wine at the Treehouse Restaurant - one of Northern Queensland's premier dining experiences. This unique open-sided restaurant features unobstructed rainforest and river views set above the trees.

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Mantra Legends Hotel — Gold Coast and Hinterland

Ideal for a relaxing getaway or family holiday, this hotel offers premium accommodation in a prime location. Just 100 meters from the beach, the hotel is in the heart of Surfers Paradise with cafés, restaurants, nightlife and shopping at its doorstep.

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Thala Beach Lodge — Northern Beaches

Family owned and operated, this lodge is located 15 minutes south of Port Douglas and sits spectacularly atop a headland with breathtaking views of the Coral Sea. It has achieved the highest accreditation of eco certification through its sustainable practice and environmental sensitivity.  Paths meander through rainforests onto private sandy beaches placing guests in an unsurpassed secluded, relaxing environment. Guests dine among the birds in the surrounding treetops whilst enjoying world-class fine food and embracing miles of uninterrupted views.

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Lizard Island — Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
Lizard Island is truly secluded from the rest of the world. Located right on the Great Barrier Reef, there are 24 powdery-white beaches and 40 luxurious villas and suites. The island is also only a 50-minute boat ride to the legendary Outer Great Barrier Reef.  Learn More

Hayman Island Resort — Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef

Hayman is your private island hideaway nestled in the Great Barrier Reef. Immersed in natures unstaged symphony and exhilarated by a variety of personally crafted experiences, you will awaken to the beauty of life. You will reconnect with yourself and your loved ones and create ever-lasting memories and family traditions from moments of wonder.

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qualia, Great Barrier Reef — Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef

qualia is one of the most luxurious Whitsunday hotels, and amongst the most stunning luxury retreats in Australia. A jewel set on Hamilton Island’s secluded northern tip, qualia has elegantly appointed, secluded pavilions with a private sundeck or infinity-edge plunge pool overlooking the Coral Sea. qualia is a truly special place where everything has been meticulously considered to relax the mind yet completely spoil the senses.

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South Australia

Southern Ocean Lodge — Kangaroo Island

Located at Hanson bay on the Island's south west coast, the Southern Ocean Lodge site adjoins both the Flinders Chase and Cape Bouguer / Kelly Hill National Parks. Set back from a cliff above the pounding surf the sensitive design showcases a full frontal panorama and is within easy reach of all of Kangaroo Island's major attractions. Modern luxury and design integrity meld with Kangaroo island vernacular and an amazing coastal colour palette, creating a unique eco chic style.

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Tasmania

Saffire Freycinet — Coles Bay

Saffire Freycinet rises from its surroundings as a premium boutique property that is truly in touch with the beauty and depth of nature. Staying at Saffire is an experience designed to enrich and uplift, giving a new perspective in this unique environment.

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Victoria

Mantra on Russell — Melbourne

Mantra on Russell is a 4.5 star hotel ideally located in Melbourne’s thriving business heart and is the ideal accommodation choice for business and leisure travelers.  The hotel is within close proximity to all of Melbourne’s premium attractions including boutique shopping, famous eat streets and a superb array of cafes, bars, theatres, sporting venues and cultural experiences.

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Park Hyatt Melbourne — Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne’s 240 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites are styled with exquisite fabrics and furnishings, original artworks and Italian marble bathrooms, and feature breathtaking views over the city. The award-winning radii restaurant & bar, set over five cascading levels of art deco-inspired architecture, creates mouth-watering, contemporary cuisine and features an extensive wine list.

The luxurious day spa includes a fully-equipped gymnasium, 25m heated lap pool, steam room, sauna, spa and beauty centre. The hotel also has eight distinctive event spaces, including a magnificent circular ballroom, and is equipped to cater for any event from fifteen to six hundred guests. Learn More

Western Australia

True North Cruises — Broome

This adventure-cruise ship is designed to take guests into the very heart of wilderness. All cruises are activity based and specifically designed for the discerning adventurer.

Carefully crafted itineraries allow opportunity to truly ‘experience the destination’ – daily activities can include scenic walks, helicopter flights, fishing, snorkeling, culture, picnics, nature, diving, exploring and much more.

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Rail Journeys, Drives, Cruises and Charters

Indian Pacific

The Indian Pacific is an epic journey that spans the continent of Australia and is one of the longest and greatest rail journeys on earth. It is an ocean to ocean adventure in a comfortable three day journey – a total of 2704 miles in 65 hours or just 24 hours from Sydney to Adelaide. Commence your journey in the harbor city of Sydney; travel through the spectacular Blue Mountains and over the treeless plains of the Nullarbor. This great train stops at Broken Hill, Adelaide and the Kalgoorlie for optional off-train sightseeing tours.

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Melbourne Sydney Touring Route

Get behind the wheel and self-drive Sydney to Melbourne. Choose from three distinct touring routes that traverse diverse terrain and take you into welcoming cities, towns and villages located between Australia's two largest cities.

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The Ghan

The Ghan is the ultimate journey into the heart of Australia. It is an odd name for a train, but in Australian history it is a living legend. About 150 years ago, the first camels were imported along with their handlers from Afghanistan. In true Australian style, the name was soon shortened to “Ghan.’ Early explorers used camels, perfectly adaptable for traveling long distances through the hot interior and beyond all the way to Darwin. Today, train enthusiasts can make this journey with all the creature comforts these pioneers could never have imagined.

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The Southern Spirit

The Southern Spirit experience is something new and quite unique in Australia. Epic transcontinental rail cruising in Platinum or Gold Service style, combined with a suite of deluxe excursions and once in a lifetime events at ports along the way. On board you’ll enjoy unparalleled luxury and unmatched personal attention with 24-hour cabin service. Whereas trips “ashore” offer you the chance to indulge yourself at exclusive five-star hotels or take off on excursions as adventurous and exciting as you choose to make them. No, Southern Spirit is not for everyone. It’s for the lucky few who get on board.

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The Sunlander

Comfort, flexibility and a great social atmosphere have made The Sunlander one of Australia’s great journeys and a firm favourite with travelers between Brisbane and Cairns. This scenic journey, which snakes its way along north-eastern Australia’s coastline several times a week, offers travel options to suit every traveler – from the most discerning to the budget conscious.

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Airlines

Virgin Australia
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Hotels, Lodges and Resorts

North Island

Kauri Cliffs Lodge & Spa — Bay of Islands

Set on 6,500 acres near Matauri Bay, Kauri Cliffs enjoys a commanding position with spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean overlooking the championship golf course. The beautiful lodge is built in the grand colonial style, with gorgeous living and dining rooms opening on to covered verandahs.  22 outlying guest suites, and a 2 bedroom Owner’s Cottage provide the spacious accommodation at this Relais + Chateaux hideaway complete with a fabulous spa beautifully nestled amidst a totara forest , a giant Kauri Tree, and gorgeous Pink Beach.

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Solitaire Lodge — Lake Tarawera

Nestled on a private peninsula overlooking beautiful Lake Tarawera, Solitaire Lodge provides a luxurious setting where the accent is on peace and tranquility. All Lodge Suites offer spectacular views of the lake with the magnificent volcano Mount Tarawera behind. Only 20mins drive from the thermal city of Rotorua.

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The Langham, Auckland — Auckland

The Langham, Auckland is a member of the prestigious ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ and is a popular leisure, business and event option for local and international visitors. This Auckland city hotel's popularity is based largely on its elegant and luxurious environment combined with its central location in the heart of the vibrant city.

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The Lodge at Cape Kidnappers — Hawkes Bay

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers delivers a five star experience.  It is set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm with breathtaking views over the Pacific Hawke’s Bay.   The “Farm” offers a range of luxury accommodation comprising 24 individually designed suites and rooms plus a four bedroom Owner’s Cottage

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Treetops Lodge — Rotorua

Nestled amidst magnificent native forests and valleys, Treetops Lodge and Wilderness Experience offers a uniquely New Zealand experience. The Lodge with its’ elegant architectural style was derived from this country's pioneering past. Timber and stone finishes echo the beauty and simplicity of the great outdoors at Treetops Lodge.

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Wharekauhau Lodge and Country Estate — Wairarapa

As testimony to its qualities, Wharekauhau has won a clutch of awards in New Zealand and internationally, including being voted one of the best hotels in the world in the highly coveted Condé Nast Traveler Gold List in 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006 and voted best by their readers in 2009 and 2008. The lodge, which rears the rare Texcel Lamb on the estate has won the New Zealand Lamb and Beef Award, Hallmark for Excellence in 2010, 2009 and 2008. In 2008 and 2006 the Robb Report stated the lodge as in the top 100 Best Places in the World to Stay and Forbes Hotel List placed the lodge in the top 400 Top Hotels of the World. The World Travel Awards listed as a finalist in both 2010 and 2009, Wharekauhau as The Leading New Zealand Lodge and New Zealand's Leading Spa Resort.

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South Island

Blanket Bay — Queenstown

In this spectacular corner of New Zealand discover endless ways to restore your physical and spiritual well-being. There is nowhere else on Earth where there are so many activities so close by – fly-fishing and heli-skiing, the country’s best hiking on the Routeburn or Milford Tracks, jetboating and kayaking, 4WD tours, horse riding, art trails and vineyards, plus flight-seeing over the World Heritage Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

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Matakauri Lodge — Queenstown
Spectacularly situated on Lake Wakatipu with stunning views of the Remarkables mountain ranges, Matakauri Lodge is a new Relais & Chateaux property offering luxury accommodation in just eleven suites, each with private terraces looking out to the dramatic vistas.  Recently named by Tatler Magazine as one of the “World’s 101 Best Hotels”, Matakauri boasts stylish lodge facilities, superb food and wine, and exemplary service. Nestled in one of the world’s most serenely beautiful landscape settings yet just minutes from the attractions of Queenstown, it is the perfect alpine lakeside retreat. Learn More

Otahuna Lodge — Christchurch

At the head of a secluded valley in the breathtaking Canterbury region lies New Zealand’s most important historic estate -- Otahuna Lodge. Otahuna is an intimate, exclusive retreat set in an 1895 manor house surrounded by 30 acres of original botanic gardens. The Lodge’s seven generous suites retain grand architectural features from the 19th century such as open fireplaces, exquisite timber panelling and stained glass windows.

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Airlines

Air New Zealand
At Air New Zealand their goal is to provide the world’s best long-haul flight experience, one that looks after everyone on the plane – from families to business travelers to holidaymakers – because they've realized that everyone’s needs are different when travelling long-haul.  Learn More