Be amazed by one of the world's last true wilderness areas. The adventure begins with an exhilarating flight over stark deserts that eventually give way to the spectacular curves and folds of red-gold escarpments above gorges and hidden waterholes, millions of years old. At the mouth of the Berkeley River and fringing the glittering Timor Sea, 20 luxury villas appear to float on curving dunes, with 180 degree vistas of azure ocean or tranquil river and rugged red gorges. Perfectly positioned to capture cooling breezes, the villas are airconditioned retreats with king size beds, private decks and outdoor ensuites featuring big oval bathtubs for al fresco bathing under the vast diamond skies of this incredible wilderness.

Blending contemporary architecture into the unique Kimberley coastal environment, the main lodge is a short stroll from your villa. Here you can cool off or work out in the 20-metre lap pool, lounge with a book or magazine from the lodge library, dine on the freshest fine local produce or talk business in the small conference centre. You have to experience it to believe it - with three prestigious gold medals for luxury accommodation, you'll soon understand why everyone is talking about The Berkeley River Lodge.

The Restaurant

The Lodge's restaurant 'The Dunes' combines flavours as rich as the scenery of unprecedented views across the expanse of the Timor Sea and the impressive backdrop of the Berkeley River mouth on the spectacular Kimberley coastline. Using only the very best ingredients, breakfasts are cooked to order, and multi course degustation lunch and dinner menus are provided. Head Chef Paul Seymour has gained a reputation for culinary genius with flavours and colours delicately combined to please the palate and the eye, simply wonderful creations matched perfectly with fine Australian wines.

Activities

There are many ways to immerse yourself in the rich natural beauty of Berkeley River and the Kimberley wilderness beyond... some adventurous, some enriching, some romantic and all led by resident specialist guides.

River Cruises

Full-day and half-day Berkeley River cruises led by the resident skipper take in the natural treasures of this tranquil river system. Choose from cruises and gorge hikes to Casuarina Falls, a cooling dip in the secluded waterholes of Berkeley Creek and the chance to spot native flora and fauna, from saltwater crocodiles to rock wallabies and birds of prey.

Guided Hikes

Nature enthusiasts and keen photographers will be captivated by the astonishing diversity of flora, fauna and geological features surrounding The Berkeley River Lodge. Most guided hikes are led by the resident nature enthusiast, providing an introduction to the trees, plants and wildlife that inhabit the dunes, grasslands, mangroves and creeks. The three most popular hikes have been graded on recommended fitness levels and you also have the option of grabbing an 'Essentials Backpack' to explore the area on your own.

Fishing

Fish where only the privileged few have ever cast a line. With some locations so remote, they can only be reached by helicopter. The incredible diversity of habitats offers the chance to chase an impressive array of species from queen fish, threadfin salmon and mulloway, to the elusive barramundi.

Wilderness Picnics

Feast on a picnic lunch or a late afternoon antipasto platter, beside a secluded palm-fringed waterhole, at the majestic Mount Casuarina or under the very unique 'Candelabra' tree.

Helicopter Flights

Jump aboard the luxurious Bell 407 helicopter to venture beyond the 4WD tracks to treasures hidden deep within one of the last true wilderness areas on earth. Gaze in awe at the mighty King George and Mitchell Falls. Watch the sunrise atop Mount Casuarina. Swim in crystal clear rock pools untouched for hundreds of years. Picnic at Eagle Falls. Or fish some of the remotest spots in the world.

Bush & Beach 4WD Tours

A must for photography enthusiasts, 4WD tours take in sweeping ocean views, curious rock formations and native wildlife in the early morning and late afternoon, when the colours and contrasts are at their most spectacular.

Other features include air-conditioning, outdoor balcony, coffee machine, water chiller and premium amenities. Villas are serviced daily. Laundry service is available on request.

Important FAQs

The Berkeley River Lodge is open from early March to late October and offers different experiences depending on the time of the year you visit.

Standard packages include: accommodation in a private luxury villa, gourmet meals; select ranges of beverages; tours include fishing adventure, full & half day river cruise, beach and bush 4WD tours and more!

Accessible only by air - baggage has a strict 10kg per person limit. Guests take a spectacular scenic flight over the Kimberley coast to The Berkeley on a floatplane or landbased aircraft, which departs from Kununurra and Darwin.

Return scenic flight transfers are from either Kununurra or Darwin to The Berkeley River Lodge. Unless specifically included in a package, these transfers are paid separately.

There is no mobile phone coverage.

Your package rate includes accommodation on a twin share basis and all meals. Activities such as boat cruises along the coast or the Berkeley River, fishing charters and guided treks are an integral part of The Berkeley Lodge experience. Your itinerary will be personalised for you on arrival, so your stay can be as active or as indulgent as you would like.

A select range of soft drink, beer and wines are provided with meals and on some activities. A reserve wine list, spirits and cocktails are also available and these are charged at the conclusion of your stay.

Due to the diverse wildlife, swimming in the ocean and river is not an option. However you are taken to some very special spots where you can cool off in freshwater rock pools or under a waterfall. Saltwater crocodiles are not seen frequently, but they are always present even on long open beaches. The Lodge has a beautiful swimming pool with spectacular views over the coast.

In the Kimberley there are two seasons referred to as the 'wet' and 'dry'. The wet extends from November to April, bringing with it hotter days and balmy nights, along with incredible lightning shows and tropical storms. The waterfalls during this time of the year are truly spectacular. The dry is May to October, with clear blue skies, fine warm days and cool nights. The coolest months are June, July and August. From a seasonal perspective April and May can be a very spectacular time as it is an important transition time from the wet to the dry.

Surroundings are green and lush and waterfalls are flowing. With The Berkeley River Lodge's location, on top of a sand dune and surrounded by ocean, you can always be assured of a sea breeze and it is generally several degrees cooler than the forecast for nearby towns of Wyndham or Kununurra.