Bamurru Plains – Australia

What:
Just try resisting the urge to say “That’s not a knife . . . this is a knife” at this crocodile-filled floodplain. Of course, Crocodile Dundee never slept in the bush with such comforts. The accommodations at the Bamurru Plains Lodge feature modern king beds, air-conditioning (in three of the bungalows), an infinity pool and central gathering area. The community meals are luscious and excellent, which is good because the nearest dinning alternative is more than an hour’s drive away.

Where:
In Australia’s Northern Territory, on the Mary River floodplains, close (by Australian standards) to the ocean and the western boundary of Kakadu National Park. Darwin is a 3 hour drive to the west.

Our take:
Unless you and the new yours have a strong sense of adventure we wouldn’t suggest the Bamurru Plains Lodge for a honeymoon. It has a decidedly community feel, open bungalows and, while more than comfortable, a stay here isn’t exactly like living in the lap of luxury.

But those same qualities that make this lodge less-than-ideal for honeymoons make it a truly special place for those seeking a true authentic Australian experience. You can literally lie in bed and watch buffalo, wallabies, wild horses and all manner of birds. Unforgettable and highly suggested.

Book through Travellisimo and with a Mr & Mrs Smith member card ($25 or £15 per year) and get a gift-wrapped book on Australian birds, many of which you’ll see flying around the lodge grounds. (That is, the birds are flying around, not the books).