Berkeley River Lodge: Beachfront Bliss in WA

When Sarah arrived at the Kununurra Airport, she felt a shiver of anticipation. The Berkeley River Lodge, tucked away in the remote region of Oombulgurri, had long been on her travel bucket list, and today, she was finally going to experience it.

The Review

When I arrived at the Berkeley River Lodge, I was immediately impressed with the all-inclusive package. The stunning villa I stayed in was part of the deal, boasting an open-air bathroom that somehow felt both luxurious and deeply connected to the nature around us. I woke each morning to a symphony of bird song and ended each day watching the sunset from my private, furnished veranda.

Berkeley River Lodge: Beachfront Bliss

All meals were included as part of the package, and the cuisine was nothing short of extraordinary. Breakfast was served à la carte, starting my day with fresh, hearty meals that prepared me for the adventures ahead. When out on off-site activities, we were provided with gourmet lunches that we could enjoy amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Kimberley. In the evening, we were treated to a spectacular degustation dinner in the 'Dunes' restaurant, where each course was more delicious than the last.

Apart from the fantastic dining experience, what made the package truly worth it were the included activities. The lodge's experienced guides showed me stunning rock pools and waterfalls, took me to see ancient aboriginal art, and introduced me to the thrill of Kimberley coastal fishing. The activities were scheduled around my preferences, ensuring I had an itinerary that perfectly suited my interests and pace.

The lodge also included a selection of beverages, featuring an extensive wine list that showcased some of Australia's finest wines. Top shelf spirits, cocktails, and a reserve wine list were available for an additional cost.

The Experience

She checked in for her flight, a small aircraft designed to handle the airstrips of remote locations. As the plane roared into life, Sarah felt the thrill of the upcoming adventure. Once airborne, she watched as the landscape morphed from the urban expanse of Kununurra to the unspoiled wilderness of the Berkeley River region.

After an hour, the plane began its descent, and Sarah was treated to an unforgettable view. The Berkeley River, the landscape, the expansive beach, all untouched and ready to be explored.

Sarah's mornings began with a freshly cooked breakfast at the Dunes restaurant. She enjoyed a wide array of options like Bircher muesli, fresh fruits, and breakfast cooked to order, all paired with freshly brewed coffee or T2 tea. As she savored her meals, she marveled at the stunning views of the Timor Sea, Berkeley River mouth, and the magnificent Kimberley coastline, which the restaurant overlooked.

On her third day, Sarah embarked on a guided creek walk, a unique opportunity offered by Berkeley River Lodge. She walked along the creek, snapping photos of the native flora and fauna. Her guide was an enthusiast who provided insightful details about each species they encountered, making the experience an educational delight.

Location (4/5): The Berkeley River Lodge is nicely tucked in a regional park of Oombulgurri, close to nature's splendor. It has the luxury of a private beach which offers a serene experience. The breathtaking natural beauty of the Berkeley River and Casurina Falls is nearby. However, its somewhat remote location may not suit travelers who want a more urban experience.

Accommodation (4.5/5): With only 20 rooms, the resort provides a sense of exclusivity. All rooms come with comforts like premium bedding, air conditioning, separate sitting areas, and furnished balconies for a personalized stay. The deep-soaking baths add a touch of luxury. However, the number of rooms might mean a need to book well in advance.

Amenities (4/5): The lodge offers a satisfying array of amenities including an outdoor pool, luggage storage, and a bar. A special mention goes to the free cooked-to-order breakfast and the on-site restaurant that adds to the dining experience. The free WiFi in public areas keeps guests connected. The resort also provides guests with a private beach to enjoy. An area for improvement could be a wider range of leisure or recreational activities.

Meals

At lunchtime, Sarah chose to enjoy a gourmet hamper, filled with delectable treats, while exploring the Kimberley. Each bite was a testament to the quality of ingredients and the skill of the chefs at the lodge.

Dinner at Dunes was a gastronomic delight. Executive Chef Amine Bouhaddou served a five-course degustation dinner, which Sarah relished. Each course was thoughtfully paired with a wine that complemented the dish's flavors. Sarah indulged in the exquisite dishes, each one better than the last, as she gazed out at the mesmerizing coastal views.

Adventures

Sarah's day was packed with thrilling activities. She cruised along the Berkeley River with the lodge’s resident skipper, learning how to spot native wildlife, including the majestic saltwater crocodiles. The adrenaline-pumping 4WD tour was an exciting experience that allowed her to explore the stunning landscapes during the early morning and late afternoon hours, the changing light creating a mesmerizing spectacle on the unique rock formations and ocean.

One of her most memorable experiences was a helicopter tour over the Kimberley with Truenorth Helicopters. She got an unrivaled view of the ancient rock formations, gushing waterfalls, and red-rock canyons. She spotted jabiru, turtles, crocodiles, and dugongs during the flight. The helicopter even landed at a secluded waterhole where she cooled off with a cold drink in hand before returning to the lodge.

As Sarah boarded the plane for her return flight to Kununurra, she felt a pang of sadness. The Berkeley River Lodge had provided an incredible escape from the everyday. As the plane took to the skies, she made a silent promise to return, to once again immerse herself in the tranquillity of the lodge and its stunning surroundings.

The Berkeley River Lodge on Expedia
4.0 star property
4-star lodge near the beach

FAQ for the Berkeley River Lodge

FAQ for the Berkeley River Lodge

1. How do I get to the Berkeley River Lodge? Berkeley River Lodge is only accessible by air due to its remote location. Flight transfers are included in your package from Kununurra and Darwin airports to the Lodge's private airstrip.
2. What is included in the all-inclusive package? The all-inclusive package at Berkeley River Lodge includes accommodation in a luxury villa, all meals prepared by world-class chefs, a selection of beverages including an extensive wine list, and a range of activities like 4WD tours, visits to rock pools, waterfalls, ancient aboriginal art sites, and coastal fishing. Personalized itineraries are created for each guest upon arrival.
3. What are the dining options? Berkeley River Lodge provides all meals as part of the package. Breakfast is served à la carte, lunch is provided during all off-site activities or at a pre-arranged time in 'Dunes' restaurant, and dinner is a degustation style (3-5 courses). Top-shelf spirits, cocktails, and a reserve wine list are available for an additional cost.
4. What activities are available? Activities included in the package involve exploring the stunning landscapes by 4WD tours, visiting rock pools, waterfalls, and ancient aboriginal art, cruising the waters of the Berkeley property, and experiencing Kimberley coastal fishing.
5. Are there any additional costs? Top shelf spirits, cocktails, and a reserve wine list are not included in the package and can be purchased separately. Other activities or services outside the inclusive package may also incur additional costs.
6. What is the cancellation policy? The specific cancellation policy may vary, and it's recommended to check this directly with the Lodge at the time of booking.
7. Is the lodge suitable for children? The suitability for children can vary based on the specific facilities and activities at the Lodge. It would be best to check this directly with the Lodge.

Remember to verify this information with the Berkeley River Lodge as conditions can change and may be different based on the specifics of your reservation or any recent changes to their policies or offerings.

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