Review of Hayman Island Resort, by John Borthwick

Hayman Island, Australia's best-known and longest established island resort, could also be known as Gourmand Island. Shamelessly up-market in its pitch, it offers the champagne-and-everything version of travel, accompanied by the trill of tropical birds.

The facilities

The opulence starts early, with the bubbly that flows unstintingly on the very large, very fast transfer boat from Hamilton Island airport. The five-star resort itself is sumptuous and seems to be coated in marble everywhere but on your bed. Be sure to pack your taste buds because the table is expert and prolific, especially at the beachfront Azure restaurant.

Youngsters, too, get spoiled at Hayman with their own Kids Club and creche. Other major features are the famous Hayman Pool, dense tropical gardens, and fine views of the Coral Sea and neighbouring Hook Island. The five-star facilities are particularly special at the divine spa, Chakra Hayman, with 13 individual treatment rooms.

The rooms

Take your choice of 244 rooms, suites and penthouses. A lavish redevelopment a few years ago added new rooms to the Pool, Lagoon and Beach wings, as well as the spacious Beach Villa.