Island abodes

Getting there

Accessibility? It’s only by helicopter, naturally. A cinematic 30-minute swoop from Townsville or a slightly longer coastal glide from Cairns gets you there. It’s almost unfair to the rest of us, the arrival alone is Instagram-level brilliant.

The islands

Orpheus stretches itself out like a contented cat, all 12 kilometres long and lush with national park. And what a park! You’ve got bandicoots (don’t tell city posh dogs), majestic sea eagles, curious echidnas and a guest list of other native wildlife strolling about like it’s their VIP lounge.

Meanwhile, over on Pelorus, you’ve got 400 hectares of untouched wilderness fringing the reef, insisting on being gazed at with awe and wonder.

“Orpheus and Pelorus aren’t just stunning, they’re one-of-a-kind – guests will experience hospitality, adventure and moments as unforgettable as the reef itself.”

“We’re so lucky!” beams Morris Escapes owner Chris Morris (understatement of the century), who also owns the oh-so-chic Mt Mulligan Lodge.

Orpheus Island? Say less.

Boutique yet casual, all-inclusive yet intimate, this island is less Do Not Touch and more Why Aren’t You Wearing a Kaftan Yet? Orpheus offers just 14 Coral Sea-facing suites, which means you’ll never feel crowded.

The lodge includes a 25-metre infinity pool, a pavilion bar perfect for sundowners, alfresco dining and the Gwandalan Day Spa. (A treatment on the jetty, soundtracked by the sea? Yes, please.)

If you’re feeling active, you’ve got oceans of options – snorkel, paddle, fish, or take a dinghy to a secluded bay to sip bubbly and nibble on a gourmet picnic while pretending this is your real life.

Pelorus Private Island – next-level secluded

Where do you take the family, friends, or work frenemies when you need complete and utter privacy? Pelorus, darling. Exclusively reserved for up to 11 guests, this private island villa comes with five plush-style suites plus a touch of Bond villain chic.

It’s ideal for multigenerational trips, special celebrations, or just a well-earned luxury jaunt. Days here are bespoke by design, whether it’s snorkelling, exploring the rugged expanse of Hinchinbrook Island, or simply unwinding with a bottle of something lovely as the sunsets do their thing.

Sustainability is sexy

Both Orpheus and Pelorus have that rare mix of glamour and green. They’re committed to reducing their footprint without skimping on the indulgences.

Orpheus runs on solar power, features a kitchen garden bursting with organic goodness, and has some VERY happy chickens laying your breakfast eggs. Pelorus, meanwhile, operates sustainably too, with its private chef using every trick in the ethically sourced book to whip up completely personalised meals.

Luxury Lodges of Australia’s Executive Chair Penny Rafferty is clearly chuffed about this dynamic duo. “Orpheus and Pelorus perfectly fit that distinctly Australian luxury vibe we aim to share,” she said.

“And it’s not just about luxury, it’s about immersing yourself deeply in some of the planet’s most spectacular environments.”

Why they should be on your bucket list

Imagine yourself sipping wine on a jetty as the Coral Sea ripples lazily beneath your toes. Or exploring colourful reefs just steps from your villa. Or forging brand-new family memories over a perfectly grilled painted rock lobster.

Whether you’re itching to paddleboard across turquoise water or daydreaming about deep-tissue massages between beach walks, these islands aren’t just bucket-list destinations, they’re the whole bucket. And, frankly, we can’t stop picturing ourselves there.

You game? Time to book. Enquiries and reservations,  via reservations@morrisescapes.com.au, and prepare for your inner glamazon to rejoice in glorious, eco-rich paradise.

firstclassmagazine.co