Discover the art of true seclusion at these ultra luxurious stays — whether it’s panoramic valley views in South Australia, oceanfront serenity in Madeira, or barefoot luxury on Marlon Brando’s private island.
Text: Eris Choo
Australia: Luxury lodge for adults only
Sequoia is a beautifully designed lodge carved into the escarpment on Mount Lofty Estate in the verdant Adelaide Hills, South Australia. This private sanctuary is home to 14 luxury guest suites that are luxurious and sustainably designed. The suites offer 180 degree views of the Piccadilly Valley and have been designed as a tranquil oasis with a sunken lounge room featuring a stone-clad gas fireplace, as well as a spa-like retreat bathroom. There’s also complimentary mini bar with local artisan produce (excluding alcohol).
Guests can enjoy the panoramic sun deck within the lodge grounds. Or take a dip in the artesian spring-fed hot pool or infinity pool overlooking the Piccadilly Valley. There are dedicated experience curators to assist with crafting your Sequoia journey. For instance, guided nature walks at the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden or hikes along the Heysen Trail surrounded by the largest remaining koala population in the world.
Aside from the in-house restaurant which serves contemporary Australian dishes topped with scenic views, gourmands can go for an artisan food and wine experience in Adelaide Hills. There are plenty of award-winning wines to be had in the area. Alternatively, take a short stroll to sister property Mount Lofty House whose fine dining Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant serves superb menus featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
Portugal: Serene Hideaway
Nestled within the Savoy Palace, high above the city of Funchal in Madeira, Portugal, The Reserve is an understated luxury boutique hotel with just 40 sea-view rooms and suites, crowned by a grand rooftop presidential suite.
Room designs draw on the Madeira’s lush landscapes, from calming sea-blues to earthy greens and browns, while details like Bvlgari amenities and fine-thread linens elevate each stay. Dedicated Guest Experience Personal Assistants are on hand round-the-clock to curate each moment to perfection.
The hotel’s central space, the Jacaranda Club on the 16th floor is where guests can linger over breakfast, graze on light bites throughout the day, or slip into the rooftop infinity pool to watch the city and Atlantic Ocean unfold below. Dining is equally thoughtful, with the hotel’s Nikkei restaurant weaving Asian flavours into the island’s freshest ingredients.
French Polynesia: Island Paradise
Surrounded by turquoise waters and soft white sand, The Brando on Tetiaroa Private Island in French Polynesia offers guests a rare mix of seclusion, comfort, and discovery. Once the personal retreat of Hollywood icon Marlon Brando, the island is now home to a world-class eco-resort with 35 villas, each with private pools and beachfront access.
There’s plenty to do whether it’s cycling along shaded trails, snorkelling among coral gardens, or joining hands-on activities at the resort’s eco-station to learn more about nature conservation and Polynesian culture. Dining options abound with gourmet dining at three restaurants. New culinary experiences await as well-known French chef Jean Imbert presents a blend of Polynesian flavours and classic French techniques. You can also enjoy private dining experiences. Think: a romantic dinner for two by the water’s edge, or a mid-day beach picnic for family gatherings.