Along with our recently reviewed Melbourne’s Sofitel, there are only a few truly European-flavoured five-star hotels in Australia. Here are our pick:
Park Hyatt, Sydney
Although best known for its front-row seat to Sydney Harbour’s iconic trifecta, the bridge, the house and the fun park, the Park Hyatt isn’t just about location.
A drastic revamp to include two waterfront restaurants and bar, a day spa and 155 designer rooms means even more expansive views, marble baths, attentive service and custom-made artworks.
Voted as the top city hotel in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific by US magazine Travel + Leisure four years running, The Langham must be doing something right.
Old-world opulence meets European luxury with grand staircases, plush beds, the theatrical Melba Restaurant, a day spa and that famous Langham service.
On the banks of the Brisbane River stands this Queensland icon.
Each of the guest rooms at Stamford Plaza has been lavishly appointed in timber furnishings and muted tones, with mod-cons like a flat-screen TV, on-demand movies, 24-hour concierge, and an extensive list of the hotel’s own high-tea options.
No one does road trips like Australians. Make your journey perfect.
The humble road trip is a way of life in Australia, and it’s not the same here as it is anywhere else. Sure, you could fly, but then you’re missing out on the bonding time and priceless memories that get made along the way (good or bad, you’ll be sharing them for years to come). Not to mention, some of Australia’s most worthwhile and untouched places can only be accessed by road.
But how to ensure your road trip is quintessentially perfect? Why use this checklist, of course.
1. Start with the perfect vehicle
Relax with stunning views in a spacious motorhome. (Image: Demi Gavin)
I can tell you from experience, nothing will push even the most tight-knit group to devolve into chaos and fighting faster than a vehicle that isn’t up to the task of a proper road trip. Enter the premium options of Star RV Motorhomes.
They have a range of sizes to suit any group, from solo travellers and couples to families. And they’re designed to be easy to drive.
Take the Polaris 6, for example. This light-filled sanctuary of comfort has plenty of space for bigger groups. Three double beds, a shower and toilet, and an extendable awning (with room to move between them all) make it perfect for exploring Australia.
Couples might prefer the Polaris 2 with a fully self-contained bathroom, kitchen and a bed for two that transforms into comfortable seating during the day. Both models are pet-friendly.
2. Pack the tastiest snacks
Make use of the spacious storage in your Star RV.
Road trip snacks are an Australian art. Some, you’ll need to pick up along the way. We’re talking the iconic Chico Roll, choccie milk and maybe a sneaky potato scallop (or several).
Others, you can pack ahead of time to save on time and, usually, money. Thankfully, Star RV Motorhomes all come with plenty of storage space, so your snacks can last as long as your road trip. Think fresh fruit and other supplies to cook lunch and dinner along the way. Plenty of lollies and maybe even some soft drinks and Red Bulls for the road.
Not to mention, many Star RV motorhomes have a kitchen onboard, complete with a full-size kitchen, so you won’t need to lug an esky around.
3. Bring your pet for the ride
Travel Australia with your four-legged co-pilot. (Image: Erin Bacchi)
Man’s best friend is essential for a truly Aussie road trip. Pet-friendly Star RV Motorhomes not only mean your dog (or cat, if they enjoy the open road more than mine do) can experience Australia with you, but that you save a small fortune on pet sitters or dog hotels.
4. Prepare the perfect soundtrack
Chase the journey and the destination.
No ifs, ands or buts, the perfect soundtrack can make or break a road trip. It’s really up to you, but we recommend plenty of Australian classics. Cold Chisel never hits quite the same as when you’re listening to it with only gumtrees and kangaroos for company.
Of course, this means you’ll also need a good sound system to listen to your carefully curated tunes on. Star RV motorhome sound systems allow you to connect your device and play your own music. Goodbye, spotty radio reception.
5. A spacious tent and camping gear
Enjoy soft linens and space to stretch. (Image: Cariund Hannes)
If there’s one thing that a road trip can guarantee, it’s a campsite or several. So you’d better source a good sturdy tent, sleeping back, and a camping mattress that probably won’t help much – but it’s better than the ground.
Or, just hire a motorhome so your vehicle is also your bed, and comfort is a priority (goodbye foam camp mattresses) with linens provided. And you’ll have room to unpack and move around. Heaven.
6. Plan your toilet breaks
Typically, an Aussie road trip means pulling over at a good bushy area or finding a horrific pit toilet on the side of the road – the smell of which will stay with you forevermore. If you’re planning to camp, better pack that handy shovel and find a good, bug-free place to dig your own loo hole.
To avoid that hassle (and smell), forgo the shovel and hire a motorhome with an onboard toilet. When the toilet comes with you, there are no emergency roadside stops. Plus, it’s a whole lot fresher.
7. Pick the ultimate destination
Hit the road, Aussie-style. (Image: Matt Finch)
Of course, the journey is half the fun. But the other half is an incredible destination. With accommodation and transportation sorted out with one motorhome, you have the flexibility to choose a gorgeous view for the night (or several).
There are endless views to choose from, like the rugged cliff faces of Queensland’s Carnarvon Gorge National Park. Carnarvon Gorge camping area (near the visitor area) and the Big Bend walkers’ camp both have bushy surrounds and a trail to the gorge itself.
Or Lake Argyle, Western Australia‘s largest man-made freshwater reservoir. Find the only dedicated camping and caravan park at Lake Argyle Resort.
Meanwhile, Mount Buffalo National Park in Victoria is prolific for its wildlife. Wander through snow gum forests and keep an eye out for wombats, Australian kestrels and more. There are several camp options here.
Start planning your Australian road trip adventure (and get 15 per cent off on any Star RV motorhome rental in Australia) at starrv.com/au.
