Meet Queensland’s newest tourism openings coming in 2021
News
By Danielle Reckless
Queensland’s most awe-inspiring experiences may turn back the history books – from the world’s oldest living culture to the ancient reef and rainforests, and dinosaur fossil-filled outback – but there’s a lot to celebrate in the new as well.
If our year-round sunshine and endless opportunities for adventure didn’t already have you planning a Queensland escape, get ready to pack your bags. With major new tourism openings slated for 2021 across the state, travellers have even more reasons to holiday here.
Read on to discover where you’ll be sleeping, eating and adventuring next year.
Experience the reef by night in underwater accommodation
Queensland is soon to boast not just one – but two underwater accommodation options. Off the coast of Bundaberg, you’ll find Lady Musgrave HQ: a new pontoon offering day trippers, divers and educational groups the experience of immersing themselves in the beauty of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Explore the diverse ecosystem surrounding Lady Musgrave Island by day, then by night settle into bunk beds in the underwater pontoon observatory to watch the reef by night.
Go glamping in World Heritage Gondwana rainforest
A nature escape has never looked so good. Slow down and breathe in fresh country air when Hazelwood Estate swings open its gate in early 2021. Tucked into the hills of Lamington National Park, luxury here extends to more than the glamping accommodation. There’ll be an onsite day spa, infinity swimming pool, wagyu cellar door and farm-to-table dining.
Taste pastry perfection in the capital
Photo by @lunecroissant
You might have thought you’d find the world’s best croissants in Paris, but from winter 2021 you’ll be able to taste them in Brisbane. Melbourne’s Lune, the croissanterie that’s impressed not only the New York Times but the hundreds that line up before dawn to score the sought-after pastry - is opening a flagship store in vibrant Fish Lane in early 2021.
Soak up beachfront luxury on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is set to get even more glamorous when luxurious beachfront hotel The Langham opens in Surfers Paradise in late 2021. Settle into one of the 169 suites or 170 serviced apartments and you’ll score views of the Surfers skyline or soul-soothing ocean, with the iconic beach just steps away. That’s if you can pull yourself away from feasting at signature Cantonese restaurant T’ang Court, an elegant afternoon tea at Palm Court, or relaxing at the wellness spa.
In the meantime, indulge your need for luxury at these incredible Queensland hotels and resorts.
Atlantis arrives at Sea World
Experience myths, mysteries and the adventure of three new thrilling rides at Sea World’s brand-new precinct, The New Atlantis. Twist, turn and spin 18 metres above sea level on The Vortex, which opens this summer. You’ll have to wait until June 2021 for the others: an exhilarating family-friendly wooden rollercoaster The Leviathan; and The Trident, a tower-style ride that’ll soar you 42 metres above the park.
Sleep amongst the Daintree
Get ready to welcome back one of the Daintree’s most iconic retreats, Silky Oaks Lodge, which will reopen on October 1 after a huge refurbishment. Bringing even more luxury to this treetop escape, the newly appointed villas incorporate fresh Australian design and Indigenous artworks to complement the soul of this ancient rainforest, alongside its destination-inspired restaurant.
Stay tuned for more news for the year ahead. And while you’re at it, start blocking out your annual leave for 2022, as there’s even more adventure on the way. Queensland’s first purpose-built walking and mountain biking track – The Wangetti Trail – will open, stretching 94km between Cairns and Port Douglas.
Brisbane’s long-anticipated Queens Wharf precinct will give you a fresh dose of riverfront culture and dining. Poised to open in late 2022, the $3.6bn development will welcome four hotels, a casino, residential tower, Skydeck plus 50 restaurants, bars and cafes – making it a new lifestyle and entertainment hub for the city.
