Unique Sleeps: Wildman Wilderness Lodge, Northern Territory
Unique Sleeps: Amazing hotels hand picked by Expedia Experts. Wildman Wilderness Lodge, Northern Territory
Are you too posh to pitch a tent? Want to experience the Outback but not keen on spending the night in the great outdoors? Wildman Wilderness Lodge is your answer. Located 170 km drive south of Darwin, most of which is on the sealed Arnhem Highway, the lodge is a fantastic base for exploring the Mary River Wetlands and Kakadu National Park. It’s an easy drive down from Darwin, so head out early and stop along the way at Spectacular Jumping Crocs on the Adelaide River, with a pizza lunch at Purple Mango Café and Brewery, and still have plenty of time to enjoy the lodge’s infinity pool and large terrace deck looking straight out at the bush. The lodge itself dates back to 2011, with much of the main lodge building transported and repurposed from a station in Central Far North Queensland. Sustainability plays a big role in the lodge, which has a commitment to being low impact on its environment.
On arrival you’ll notice the low lying buildings and common areas are all muted shades of brown, green and tan, blending in with the bush. You’ll spend the night in a cabin or a safari tent – now these are no ordinary digs. The cabins, known as habitats, are a study in “outback chic”. Chairs out on the private decks are the perfect spot to enjoy the sunshine, or throw open the doors and watch the dawn from bed. With ensuite, electricity, beautiful wooden floor boards and double beds, all the safari tents are missing are walls, and the canvas ones are what make this experience so special.
As the name suggests, Wildman is out in the wilderness, and guests are encouraged to explore their surroundings. The billabong cruise is a real treat for bird watchers and crocodile spotters, especially compared to other Mary River wetlands cruises which take place on the often crowded public estuaries. You’ll have the billabong all to yourself. Day trips also head into Kakadu National Park.
After a long day sightseeing, the infinity pool is the spot to cool down and watch the last light of the day disappear, or head to the outdoor fire pit to listen to acoustic guitar performances by local talent. Bring your appetite to dinner, where chef Michael Collins showcases local produce in a three course dinner that’s included in your stay. Breakfast is also included, and is served nice and early so you can eat and be on your way into the National Park before the heat of the day.
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