Australia has been popular amongst gay and lesbian travellers ever since the days of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Sydney and Melbourne both host thriving gay communities that offer gay nightclubs, bars, saunas and restaurants. The endless beaches, trendy bars and beautiful people all appeal to the gay community who flock there in their thousands each and every year. A spectacular vacation requires the perfect hotel, and the following list of gay-friendly hotels will ensure the perfect holiday experience.
1. The Crowne Plaza, Alice Springs
Fans of Priscilla can stay at the movie’s final destination surrounded by luxury and style. Relax in the sauna or whirlpool after several laps in the outdoor pool. Peaceful vacationers will love this hotel’s secluded spot surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges and rolling countryside.
2. Pink Flamingo Resort, Port Douglas
The aptly named Pink Flamingo hotel welcomes the entire family as guests can bring their pets to stay if they wish. The pool bar offers tropical cocktails followed by a delicious BBQ cooked to perfection by talented chefs. The Great Barrier Reef is only a short drive away for some of the most incredible snorkelling opportunities, or take a day trip to Cape Tribulation.
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3. Allendale Cottages, Blue Mountains
Photo: allendalecottages.com.au
Those who want to wake up in the shadow of Australia’s spectacular Blue Mountains can stay in the architecturally-designed Allendale cottages. All of the accommodations are designed to offer peace, tranquillity and a haven from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The secluded cabins are excellent choices for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. The area offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities including the Three Sisters mountain range, the Megalong Valley and the Jenolan Caves.
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4. Hideaway Resort, Peregian Beach
This hotel is the perfect choice for naturists that prefer an extremely relaxed dress code. Recline on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast that offers plenty of lively night spots, gourmet restaurants and cultural attractions. Nude sunbathers may find themselves being watched by the numerous koala bears that hide in the trees surrounding the resort.
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5. Hideaway Haven, Albany
Escape to a luxury retreat that nourishes the soul by offering guests the chance to get closer to nature. Kangaroos, cows and horses can be seen grazing in the distance from your luxury 5-star suite. Revitalise yourself in the Healing Waters Jacuzzi that oxygenates the body providing relief from sore muscles, joint pain and poor circulation.
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6. Turtle Cove Beach Resort, Cairns
Photo: turtlecove.com
This stunning resort and spa is located on its own private beach surrounded by lush green palms and crystal-clear waters. Gym lovers will feel right at home here and can relax after a workout with a soothing massage. Turtle Cove provides a totally hidden, clothing-optional exclusive gay and lesbian resort that guarantees the trip of a lifetime.
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7. Amaroo Water Gardens, Hope Forest
For accommodation in Adelaide, the gay-owned Amaroo Water Gardens B&B sits on 20 acres of scenic gardens and lakes. Visit the Nearby Mclaren Vale wineries for some local wine tasting before hitting the spectacular southern beaches and Kuitpo forest.
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8. Marrakesh Resort, Gold Coast
Surfers should head straight for this 4-star, Moroccan-themed resort that offers ocean view rooms. The hotel is a few minutes’ walk from Surfer’s Paradise which also offers plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and a casino. The hotel’s award-winning chef serves up tantalising meals every night at Kesh, the onsite restaurant.
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9. The Sydney Wattle Hotel, Sydney
This charming boutique hotel sits right on the parade route of the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and is only a short walk from the heart of Sydney’s gay district. The Royal Botanical Gardens and the iconic Sydney Opera House are also nearby attractions that will keep you busy during the day. This hotel is proud of its reputation as one of the friendliest gay hotels in Sydney.
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10. Rainbow Retreat Wilderness Eco Cabins, Tasmania
This exclusive resort comprises just three solar-powered, carbon-neutral cabins that offer the most spectacular panoramic views of Tasmania. The property is considered a private nature reserve by the Tasmanian government. Guests can visit any of the five nearby National Parks and spend the day with possums, penguins, Tasmanian devils, wallabies and eagles. Make sure you visit the nearby Bay of Fires for an unforgettable afternoon watching the local dolphins.
Australia is a melting pot of cultures, ancient traditions and modern society set against some of the most stunning countryside in the world. The country offers much more than just surfing and beach activities. The spectacular mountain ranges provide hikers with endless entertainment while the museums and art galleries will satisfy those seeking a little more culture. Australia has a reputation for being one of the most tolerant countries when it comes to LGBT travellers, and the friendly locals will soon make you feel right at home.
