The Hotel: Darwin FreeSpirit Resort

Groupies escaping to the top end will find a family-friendly haven at the Darwin FreeSpirit Resort. When the day gets too hot, hop in one of three outdoor pools or sip on a refreshing drink or two from Elements Poolside Bar & Bistro. The giant jumping cushion and a range of Kidz Korner activities will keep the little ones entertained. This idyllic resort is only a 15-minute drive away from Darwin’s CBD, while national parks and Mindil Beach Markets are also nearby.

Couples settle into the Studio Room, while families and groups of four can appreciate the more spacious One-Bedroom Cabon or Two-Bedroom Garden Villa, all featuring en suite facilities, TVs and air conditioning. Late check-out by 12pm makes it a bit easier to go back to reality.

Room Details

Studio Room

• Bed size/type: Queen bed
• Standard occupancy: Two people
• Maximum occupancy: Two people
• This open-plan room comes with en suite facilities, air conditioning, bar fridge, tea- and coffee-making facilities, microwave, toaster, and cookery and crockery

One-Bedroom Palm Cabin

• Bed size/type: Queen bed and sofa
• Standard occupancy: Four people
• Maximum occupancy: Four people
• Comes with en suite bathroom, ironing facilities, TV, kitchen facilities, and lounge/dining area

Two-Bedroom Garden Villa

• Bed size/type: Queen bed and two single beds
• Standard occupancy: Four people
• Maximum occupancy: Four people
• Features a living area, dining and a well-appointed kitchen, as well as a timber patio

The Area: Darwin, Northern Territory

As the largest city and capital of Northern Territory, Darwin boasts a relaxed vibe that blends well with the tropical climate. Boats are anchored around the harbour, pavements are littered with chairs and tables from side street restaurants and museums showcase the city’s past with indigenous art. Explore the famous national parks of Kakadu and Litichfield or the Tiwi Islands to appreciate the beauty of nature.

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory boasts a wide collection of Aboriginal art and has a room dedicated to Cyclone Tracy, graphically displaying the aftermath of the disaster. Movie-lovers may enjoy watching a film under the moonlight at Deckchair Cinema. The Crocodylus Park showcases hundreds of crocodiles and a mini-zoo with like lions, tigers and spider monkeys. Tourists visiting Aquascene may encounter a frenzy of fish including mullet, catfish and batfish waiting to be fed at high tide by generous visitors.