Destination
The most secluded island retreat in the Whitsundays. Elysian Retreat is a soulfully crafted oasis ecologically designed to inspire a serene sojourn. A blissful escape from the crowds on the southern point of Long Island with an emphasis placed on exclusively tailored experiences for a maximum of 20 guests. Located in a 3 hectare private cove, surrounded by rainforest and all the magnificence of the Great Barrier Reef, this boutique eco island boasts a locally sourced menu and personalised organic spa treatments with dedicated hosts on hand. Elysian can be hired exclusively for those not wanting to share the sequestered beauty of this paradise.
Elysian caters to children 14 years old and over.
Rooms and Amenities
Accommodation is provided in 10 beautifully appointed air-conditioned oceanfront island villas with both ocean, mountain and rainforest views. Crafted from solid Australian hardwood with high cathedral ceilings. Large windows and private balconies, with uninterrupted water views. En-suites with shower and organic amenities. Outdoor hammocks, day beds and outdoor showers provide ample opportunity for relaxation.
Meals and Drinks
The all-inclusive package includes three gourmet meals daily, plus a cocktail and canapés before dinner, and high-end wine paired with each dinner course. Vegetables and herbs are plucked straight from the island’s own herb garden and food is sourced from surrounding farm regions such as Bowen.
Executive chef Joshua Beckett operates a daily changing menu by using the best ingredients available and pairing them with the preferences of guests. Feast on the likes of red emperor caught straight from the surrounding Coral Sea for dinner, or a healthy breakfast bowl designed to resemble the aqua ocean and surrounding mountains.
Once a week, there’s also a chef’s table for guests in which shared food platters are served and on your last night, the chef will prepare you a ‘last supper’ of your favourite foods.
Activities and Inclusions
With its location set amongst the Whitsunday Islands there are boundless opportunities to explore the island and surrounds and many once-in-a-lifetime moments. In addition to all the diving and snorkelling the heart desires, guests can take a sailing charter out to Whitehaven Beach or try their hand at fishing, or a helicopter tour to Heart Reef or Whitehaven Beach with a gourmet picnic hamper.
Bathe in the magnesium pool to relieve stress and detoxify and energise the body; join the free daily yoga session at 7am overlooking the ocean; take a bush walk; organise a day trip to another island; and indulge in unlimited use of water sport equipment including snorkelling gear, SUPs and glass-bottom kayaks. Or simply hang in a hammock and read, relax and revel in having this piece of paradise all to yourself.
When to travel
The tropical climate follows two distinct seasons. The dry season, from April to October, features mild to warm daytime temperatures and cooler nights, making it a popular time to visit. The green season is from November to March when its hotter with higher humidity.
Whale season runs from July through to October each year. The whales migrate north from July onwards and then start migrating south again from September onwards.
Stinger season runs between November and May each year where stingers may be present in the ocean. Guests can be provided with stinger suits.
Getting there
Domestic flight from most Australian capital cities into either Hamilton Island or Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine)
Helicopter transfers take 7-15 minute to Elysian Retreat leaving from Hamilton Island Airport and Whitsunday Coast Airport. Private boat charters are available, but access is severely restricted and limited due to tides, please enquire if you require a boat transfer to check times and days are available