Longitude 131, A Luxurious Tented Resort in Central Australia

One of my editors, Andrew, has just returned from a stay at Longitude 131 and is raving about it. “Don't think about staying anything less than 3 nights,” he says. “It might look like the resort is in the middle of nowhere―and to some degree it is―but there's so much to see and do that 3 days barely scratches the surface.”

Located in the geographical center of Australia and spiritual heart of its Aborigines, Longitude 131 has taken a leaf out of Africa's upscale safari camps and created a top-notch tented retreat with all the luxuries of a 5-star resort in a desert wilderness setting. Perched atop a rust-red sand dune with magnificent views of the iconic Ayers Rock (or Uluru as it's known in the local Pitjantjatjara language), the resort comprises just 15 luxe permanent “tents” scattered either side of a central Dune House which is the social hub of the resort. Forget camping! Each tent is like a hotel room with a central king-size bed with crisp cotton sheets, a contemporary en suite bathroom, lots of wardrobe space, and floor-to-ceiling windows with an electric blind that opens at the flick of a switch to reveal the surrounding desert and Ayers Rock―magical. All meals (which are included in the tariff) are enjoyed in the Dune House … breakfast, lunch and dinner menus change daily and would put a smile on Gordon Ramsay's face: pumpkin and coconut soup, confit of duck risotto; excellent Australian and international cheeses and wines, and delicious desserts like pavlova and lime pannacotta. “You can do as much or as little as you want,” says Andrew, “but 131's program of activities can easily fill a day. Don't miss the Kantju Gorge sunset, Uluru sunrise tour, a memorable Dinner Under The Stars, and a full-day hike through the prehistoric domes of the Olgas in the World Heritage-listed Kata Tjuta National Park.” Optional helicopter flights and Harley-Davidson rides are available. The resort also offers an intimate glimpse into the lives, culture and art of the local Aboriginal tribespeople―The Mulgara Gallery is especially good for quality Aboriginal art. The resort is the upscale wing of the much larger Ayers Rock Resort (served by its own airport), but is tucked away in its own little reserve, so the experience is very intimate and personal. Ayers Rock Airport is about 2.5 hours flying time from Sydney.

All-inclusive 3-night packages from about $4,530 per couple.