The all new, luxury Hayman Island by InterContinental is set to sparkle when it opens its doors next month

Get ready, Australia! One of Queensland’s most iconic resorts has undergone a massive refurbishment and will open on July 1.

Get ready, Australia. One of Queensland’s most iconic resorts has undergone a massive refurbishment and will open on July 1.

If the Whitsundays is on your travel wish list for 2019, save a spot for Hayman Island. Over the last two years, the island has been undergoing a massive renovation under the global powerhouse InterContinental Hotels Group and will reopen on July 1 as Hayman Island by InterContinental. 

The 400-hectare private island, set in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, has been closed for two years after it was devastated by cyclone Debbie in 2017. Now, it is set to sparkle once more. As a guest of InterContinental, I visited the island for a sneak peek - and it doesn’t disappoint.

Hayman's new era of luxury

Accessed by seaplane, boat or helicopter, the island plans to welcome a new era of luxury, focusing on relaxation and re-connection in this timeless, serene haven. The 166 luxury rooms include king or twin Classic Rooms boasting views of the sparkling lagoon; one-bedroom Executive Rooms with separate lounge; and lavish three-bedroom Suites, each room with its own private pool.

Four new restaurants – Amici Trattoria, Bam Bam, Pacific, and Aqua - and 1950s -style Bar Fifty take guests on a journey through the all-new tastes of the island’s distinct dining scene, sourcing Australian produce wherever possible.

The new Hayman also features bars, a day spa, an infinity pool, world-class kids’ club and event spaces. Guests can enjoy curated experiences such as seaplane rides, island picnics, secluded swimming spots and tailored boat tours.

Familiar, but fresh

Formerly operated under the One & Only banner, the hotel has remained focused on what guests and families love about returning to Hayman, and resort Manager, Mark Eletr understands that this tradition should be upheld. “Hayman is familiar - but fresh,” he said.

Hayman Island will open its doors on July 1, 2019, and is a powerful symbol of the iconic island’s recovery and resilience.

The writer travelled as a guest of InterContinental. 

Originally published as The all new, luxury Hayman Island by InterContinental is set to sparkle when it opens its doors next month