Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing

Location

Accessible on the Great Northern Highway – that famed road that strikes across north-west Australia – the crossing is a four hours’ drive east of Broome and six hours from Kununurra in the other direction. For those not quite as time rich, the township has a small airport that serves local destinations. However, once you’ve arrived, you’ll be treated to spectacular creeks, stunning gorges and an abundance of wildlife including freshwater river crocodiles. Check ahead from December to March as the area is prone to floods with the river a breathtaking sight on such occasions.

Accommodation

With memories of these floods still at the back of the mind of many of the Fitzroy Crossing’s denizens, much of the lodge’s charm is owed to its stilted platforms set on raised ground. As such, you can enjoy sweeping views from the spacious Riverview Studios; your private balcony is the perfect place for a sunset barbecue as you indulge in some wildlife spotting. Studios also feature spa baths while, for something a bit different, look to the luxury Safari Tents. Complete with shaded timber decks, metal roofs and canvas sides, their shaded decks offer fantastic garden views.

Dining

The resort’s restaurant emphasises fresh flavours and locally inspired dishes that are served with the might of the Fitzroy River as a backdrop. Gourmet entrees include Coffin Bay oysters and oak smoked salmon while mains showcase the best of Australia’s rivers, seas and farms. Enjoy slow cooked pork in a red wine jus or saltwater barramundi accompanied by skewered prawns among a range of fine dining options that can be taken on the restaurant’s verandah.

Facilities

The lodge’s beating heart can be found in the lounge bar where its welcoming Kimberley atmosphere plays host to a menu of light bites. Elsewhere, you’ll find a shaded swimming pool and multiple tennis courts as you try and recreate the heroics of last year’s Aussie Open. The lodge also puts on a host of tours that take in the delights of nearby Geikei and Windjana Gorge National Parks or the town’s charm and the river’s barramundi and crocs. Come the evening, why not indulge in the most of Australian of traditions – a barbecue – as you take in views of the grounds and the river beyond.