WA's wilderness hideaway

AN exclusive island paradise off Western Australia's northern coast offers respite from the winter chill and city stresses.

DAYS spent fishing, snorkelling and exploring the region's temperate waters, or just relaxing ashore.

Balmy nights kick off with a magnificent sunset before the freshest of seafood meals. The menu will depend on what has just been caught in the surrounding waters – barramundi, coral trout and mangrove jack are often in abundance.

This precious reconnection with nature – and a few close family or friends – awaits on ecologically pristine Wilderness Island, nestled in the fishing grounds of the Exmouth Gulf and just 40km from Exmouth.

With a maximum of eight guests at any one time – accommodated in beachfront safari cabins – Wilderness is a private island.

This paradise was discovered only a few years ago by owner-manager Jim Alston.

His vision was to provide an adventure escape for people who don't want ice-sculpture buffets or crowded resort pools, just a relaxing and unforgettable adventure in an untouched natural environment.

"When I first saw Wilderness Island – the animal and plant life, the fishing, it was all so untouched – I knew we had to protect it if we were to receive guests here," Mr Alston said.

"So I really wanted to build a camp that was comfortable and fully self-contained with a minimal ecological footprint.

"We drink fresh rainwater, use solar power and limit the number of guests on the island at any one time.

"I think what really works for them is the ability to step right out of a busy life and just do what we did as kids – keep things simple, explore, marvel at everything around us and, most importantly, have fun all the time. Every day was an adventure back then."

Enjoy a drink at the end of the day

The camp provides simple yet functional facilities designed to minimise impact on the fragile natural environment.

The four cabins have ocean views and sleep two people comfortably. Mosquito screens and bedding with linen are provided.

And if guests would like to sleep in a swag under the stars, that can be arranged.

The hub of Wilderness Island is the main camp with its lounge, dining tent, elevated sundeck and well-appointed kitchen.

With stunning views, the sundeck is a perfect place to enjoy a drink at the end of the day.

The main camp is solar-powered and fully self-contained, providing fresh drinking water, gas stove, refrigerator, freezer, lights and power.

With all linen and cooking utensils supplied, there's not much else guests need to bring, apart from sun-protection gear, shoes for reef walking, sturdy shoes for walking and warm clothing.

Guests should also advise of any special dietary requirements.

A medical chest is available to treat injury or illness and staff are trained in first aid and hold current certificates.

Some fishing gear is supplied. Bring your own rods and lures, but bait and tackle are provided.

A CD player is available, so bring your choice of discs and batteries if you're likely to need them.

Rates on Wilderness Island cover accommodation, food, fuel, bait and tackle, but not drinks.

The Sunday Times