Melanie Clout from Clout & Turner Travel Associates was fortunate enough to experience a weekend away at Hayman Island. From its tranquil setting to its abundance of fresh seafood, this island resort is setting a whole new standard for luxury summer holidays.
I flew Virgin Australia, departing Brisbane on a flexi ticket. This was the first time I have used a flexi fare. I loved the priority check-in and being one of the first to get a meal. I thoroughly recommend getting access to the Virgin Lounge, especially in Brisbane. It solves the dilemma of where to have breakfast when you're on an early flight. Everything is there, already laid out for you and it actually makes a trip to the airport more exciting and relaxing.Upon arrival in Hayman, I discovered the true definition of relaxation. After my first afternoon there, I honestly thought the resort must have been vacant. During my wander down to the beach and my swim at the pool, I barely saw another person. I spoke to the staff and discovered the resort was surprisingly booked at 90% capacity. The spacious design makes for a very private and serene environment. The quiet setting, combined with the frequent conversations with staff, make you feel like a very special guest.
The food was just superb. The restaurants on site are second to none. Having Bloody Marys and Champagne on offer at breakfast was amazing enough in itself, then the restaurant Orientaltook it to a whole new level, presenting different cuisines including Japanese, Thai & Chinese.
In addition to the array of food options, are the generous choices of where to eat. You can relax in the restaurant, opt for a private outdoor setting amongst the amazing creeks or even venture out towards the beach. If you are dining with a group, like I was, you can reserve the amazing 'Tea House'. Here, you can enjoy an amazing, holistic culinary experience not just satisfy your appetite.
The following night we went to 'Azure' and it had one of the best seafood buffets I have ever seen with divine fresh prawns, oysters, crabs, Moreton bay bugs...the list goes on. I wished I was staying longer, to get the opportunity to try the other amazing options such as Chef's Table which features an impressive degustation menu. On one of the days, we experienced an amazing 2.5 hour trip out to Langhorne Island, equipped with beach umbrella's, an esky of champagne and gourmet picnic hampers. We also had snorkelling gear and were fortunate enough to play with the turtles which were happily swimming in the area. It was an absolutely gorgeous way to spend the afternoon.
Definitely take sunscreen and a hat as it's a very hot climate. There are plenty of activities to choose from if you wish to keep busy, particularly in the way of day trips. The obvious options are snorkelling and swimming but boys can also go heli-hiking while girls can visit the spa. There is also a great tennis court with a professional on hand to administer lessons. Further to this, is access to catamarans, canoes and windsurfers. However, when you find yourself in such a peaceful setting, it's hard to resist the option of simply lying by the beautiful beach. After visiting many resorts and islands over the years, Hayman was by far the most relaxing and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
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