September 27, 2007

Pacific | Australia | Queensland

Qualia of Queensland

By Nicole Cotroneo

What would you do with a billion dollars — and a passion for the Great Barrier Reef?

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After they sold their successful Rosemount vineyards in 2001, the Oatley family did what most Australian billionaires would do: they started another vineyard, bought an island off the coast of Queensland, and set to work on a five-star resort. The much anticipated Qualia — whose Latin-rooted name means “the collection of sensory feelings” — opens next month on the secluded northern tip of Hamilton Island. Anchored on the same latitude as Honolulu and Mauritius, Hamilton is the largest inhabited hideaway in the tropical Whitsundays — an archipelago with 74 isles that form the southern gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Overlooking the pristine coral-veined sea, Qualia’s 60 hillside pavilions were built for sun worship: westerly-facing pavilions feature massive sundecks, while northerly ones have private plunge pools. But it’s the lavish two-bedroom Beach House that boasts a full-size infinity pool, staff’s quarters, and separate guest cottage. You’ll have to leave the kiddies home, though –- the resort is strictly for over 18’s. All the better to preserve the peace at Qualia’s waterside yoga-meditation center and spa. Or during your candlelight dinner of kangaroo loin — paired with a bottle of Oatley Wines’ finest, of course.