Darwin
The trip began for Kylie and Georgia with a stay in Darwin, gateway to the outback, at the well located Adina Darwin within the waterfront precinct, providing great access to a range of restaurants, shops and the harbour. A harbour cruise to enjoy the spectacular sunset and dinner was a great way to get the trip started and take in the beautiful balmy evening and view the picturesque coastal city from the water.
Darwin is a fascinating, multicultural city with a rich history. They were able to spend some time in Darwin to explore its sites including the Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory, private art galleries, Paspaley Pearls, as well as Royal Flying Doctor and Military Museums which have very good interactive displays to educate on the history of the city and region as well as celebrate it as the vibrant city it is today.
Recognition of First Nations artists abounds and Kylie and Georgia visited the Tiwi Islands for a day (2.5 hours ferry trip each way from Darwin – or helicopter transfers can be arranged) to experience their Arts and Culture Tour. They agreed this was an immersive and rewarding day, complete with your own souvenir screen-print that you personally create during the day.
After getting to know Darwin, next came the real adventure, with a one hour charter flight from Darwin to Davidsons Arnhemland Safaris
Davidsons Arnhemland Safaris
Davidson’s Arnhemland Safari Lodge is located within a pristine wilderness of dynamic ranges fringed by idyllic billabongs; this unique ecosystem teems with wildlife. Valleys, overhangs, and caves have been occupied by Aboriginal people for over 50,000 years, showcasing world-class open-air galleries of rock art.
Kylie and Georgia were met on arrival at the private airstrip for the short transfer to the lodge and once settled in they hit the ground running for their first tour to experience The Rainbow Serpent rock art. Tours are conducted in open sided 4WD vehicles to take in the remarkable landscapes and scenery and there is a mix of driving and walking. Guests itineraries are thoughtfully curated, taking into consideration their interests, fitness levels and activity preferences.
Wildlife is prolific at Davidsons with sightings of dingoes, wallabies, crocodile and abundant bird life throughout their stay. Activities are varied, with viewings of rock art, wildlife viewing, fishing for the elusive barramundi, swimming in pristine waterholes, as well as simply relaxing by the lodge pool.
Kylie and Georgia both agreed, the highlight of the stay is the plethora of indigenous rock art sites that you are able to visit, coupled with interpretation by expert and knowledgeable guides.
The accommodation consist of comfortable cabins, and food is of a high standard, with a variety of meals being served at the lodge, on tour and as part of sundowners to take in the end of a great day.
Finniss River Lodge
It was then time for Kylie and Georgia to head to the newly opened Finniss River Lodge, situated only 1.5 hours (or short flight or helicopter transfer) from Darwin.
The new lodge is spacious with a large infinity pool and deck as well as lounge and dining area for guests to relax. Guest rooms offer spectacular ever-changing views across the station.
Finniss River is a working cattle station and the activities offered provide an authentic understanding of station life. Tours included “Cows and Canapes”, introducing guests to the families’ hand reared calves in the paddock. As well as fishing expeditions and airboat rides throughout the paperbark floodplain ecosystem.
Again dining was a highlight with locally-inspired meals made with flavoursome produce and uniquely Top End flavours.
Litchfield & Mindil Beach Resort
Kylie and Georgia returned to Darwin to participate in their last adventure with a full day of touring with Ethical Adventures and a visit to the renowned Litchfield National Park. The day encompassed several swimming opportunities at refreshing freshwater rock holes and waterfalls, as well as other picturesque landscapes within the iconic park. It was a great day spent with Rob, their guide and owner of Ethical Adventures – active, fun, educational, and some more great food thrown in for good measure.
This time they stayed at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort in Superior Lagoon Rooms with direct access onto the beautiful lagoon pool. The resort is situated just a couple of minutes from the city centre with own restaurant options onsite and is conveniently located within easy walking distance of the iconic Mindil Beach Night Markets, a favourite for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the atmosphere, food, arts and crafts of this multicultural city.
Kylie and Georgia concluded the highlights of the trip were –
The outstanding Aboriginal Art and overall activity experiences at Davidson’s and the freshness of the new Finniss River Lodge with great accommodation, amazing pool and outstanding food. The dancing chef is a highlight!
For those seeking amazing scenery, wildlife and meeting great “Australians” with great stories then the NT is the place to go. Untouched beauty in so many of the regions – large spaces and no high rise!
Overall it was an action packed adventure experienced by Kylie and Georgia and they look forward to sharing their knowledge to create memorable itineraries for their clients.
