Swell Lodge, Christmas Island
Splendid isolation and stunning ocean views await guests on the ‘Galapagos of the Indian Ocean’.
A rare retreat in a rare slice of wilderness has opened in a national park on Christmas Island, offering the first lucky guests exclusive access and fully inclusive packages.
Developed by wildlife photographers Chris and Jess Bray, Swell Lodge will eventually include eight glass-fronted, solar-powered eco-chalets. But for now there is only one, perched on a sea cliff on the uninhabited west coast of the jungle-clad island, 1550km northwest of mainland Australia.
Australians may best know the island in relation to its immigration detention centre but sustainable tourism is a new focus. Dubbed the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean”, Christmas Island is famous for the annual migration of 50 million red crabs, but there are also turtles, dolphins, manta rays, whale sharks, rare birds, coral reefs and world-class snorkelling and diving. You can do as little or as much as you like; options include underwater activities plus boat trips, guided walks and fishing.
Guests will not only enjoy splendid isolation and stunning ocean views but French chef Felix Legrand’s dishes of local crayfish and tuna, and wild papaya. The canvas-sided chalet tucks snugly into the jungle and features a large ocean-view deck, king bed, satellite Wi-Fi, smart kitchen and ensuite with hot shower and odourless composting loo.
From $690 a person a night, including all meals, drinks, transfers and most activities. Virgin Australia flies from Perth.
Also try Kahutara PurePod, Canterbury, New Zealand; Bawah Reserve, Indonesia.
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