Elite Traveler January-February 2019

Osprey Pavilion SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE, KANGAROO ISLAND, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Kangaroo Island (or KI if you’re in the know) is packed with coastal landscapes and an abundance of wildlife. On land, you’ll see native kangaroos, koalas and wallabies, and in the surrounding waters you might spot a few sea lions, whales and dolphins. Perched on a secluded cliff and overlooking the Southern Ocean, Southern Ocean Lodge is a casual-chic choice with only 21 suites to ensure that delicious feeling of wild remoteness. The Osprey Pavilion is quite simply outstanding. The unusual half-moon-shaped suite has a master bedroomwith en-suite bathroom, large terrace and plunge pool and—our favorite feature — a lounge with an open EcoSmart fire. A half-circle sofa faces the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the views are sublime; we won’t blame you if you spend an afternoon taking them in with a glass of Australian Shiraz from the in-suite bar. Despite the grandeur of the suite, the lodge’s vibe is designed for utter relaxation and invites a casual dress code (and suggests you bring a keen sense of adventure). As the lodge is situated in such a diverse and plentiful place, the eco-credentials are on point from the materials used, such as recycled spotted gum feature walls to the sandblasted limestone floors. Furniture and artworks are commissioned from local artists. Into the wild With 21 national and conservation parks, Kangaroo Island is often referred to as a ‘zoo without fences.’ Curate your own adventure and see as much as you can —meet sea lions at Seal Bay, hike through the limestone cliffs, go fishing on the beach, kayak or go on a nighttime exploration. Rate from $3,200 per night; minimum two nights Contact Alison Heath, general manager, +61 299 184 355, southernoceanlodge.co.au