When you hear the words Palm Cove, Port Douglas, or Cairns, it likely conjures up thoughts of a dreamy, summer oasis where one can lounge by the pool sipping on a cocktail (or two). You rarely think of the interior of the hotel for these heatwave-worthy properties, given that you’re probably not planning on spending much time indoors. Reef House in Far North Queensland’s Palm Cove turns this on its head, offering a stunning beach house property that is sure to delight all of the senses – particularly, the eyes.
Reef House is situated in the heart of Palm Cove, directly across the road from Palm Cove Beach, and presents a street view rich in oak timbers, leafy greenery and a white exterior. During check in at the light and airy lobby, guests are treated to a delicious bespoke punch and a warm hand towel to relax post-flight. Not that you need it – throughout the stay, guests are treated to a personalised concierge service which also includes airport transfers, so you’re most definitely travelling in (super relaxed) style.
The hotel interiors are what really makes Reef House special. The owners are focused on the hotel really feeling like a guest house – in other words, they want you to feel truly at home – and this is apparent in the design of the space. The rooms are scattered around the picture-perfect pool, complete with Hamptons-inspired sun lounges and rich, tropical greenery. Reef House consists of 67 intimate guest rooms, nine apartments and nine villas. The latter two room set ups offer a dedicated spa on each balcony, which allows guests to watch the sunset over the pool while they enjoy a glass of bubbles in complete privacy. Inside, the rooms continue that low-key Hamptons vibe, with all-white interiors, luxury linens and contrasting cane and timber furniture.
Rich in history, Reef House was one of the first Palm Cove properties built in 1958, and the homely touches throughout the stay carry on this legacy. From the homemade sorbet served poolside, to the complimentary punch and canapés on offer at the Brigadier Bar each evening to encourage guests to mingle, each thoughtful detail contributes to that feeling that you’re staying with family or friends. And that’s just the beginning – scroll through to read more and to go inside this stunning hotel.
Reef House boasts two large swimming pools, including one adults only pool (pictured above) and one heated to 30 degrees.
The modern interiors are decorated using an oceanside palette.
The property also has a luxurious day spa, which features five treatment rooms, two Vichy showers and a couple’s treatment room with a spa bath. You can select from a comprehensive menu that includes massages, facials, body exfoliation and Reef House spa is also the only day spa in Queensland to offer Phytomer treatments, which use marine bio-technology.
The property is located half-way between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest and is only a 25-minute drive from Cairns airport. Make the most of being near the reef and book a once-in-a-lifetime tour. We recommend taking a trip to Fitzroy Island, with Experience Co offering inexpensive day tours for those looking to explore the area.
Be sure to set aside time to enjoy dinner at the hotel’s Reef House Restaurant. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the beach while you enjoy a meal curated by executive chef, Ben Canham, whose specialty is modern Australian fare with Asian and European influences.
Reef House also has an incredibly thorough wine list, created by sommelier, Bernard Bungaleea. What more could you want?
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