The Best Resort Hotels in Australia & New Zealand in 2018

Australia and New Zealand offer an embarrassment of riches when it comes to outdoor pursuits, from diving on the Great Barrier Reef to hiking in the rugged terrain of New Zealand’s North Island. And thanks to an abundance of world-class resorts in the region, conquering these wild landscapes and sleeping in high style are not mutually exclusive.

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

Related: The 2018 World's Best Awards

This year’s runner-up, Southern Ocean Lodge, epitomizes the idea of a remote getaway. Perched high above the crashing waves on Kangaroo Island, off the coast of South Australia, the 21-suite property allows guests to immerse themselves in the destination’s awe-inspiring scenery— all limestone cliffs, scrub-covered dunes, and unspoiled beaches. Said one effusive reader of the property: “It’s one of the most spectacular places we have ever stayed. Rooms, food, views, service — it’s all amazing!”

Over in New Zealand, natural beauty of a different sort can be found at Farm at Cape Kidnappers, which tied with Australia’s Qualia hotel for third place. The former is set on a working sheep-and-cattle farm on New Zealand’s North Island, and features 22 suites and a Tom Doak–designed golf course. Qualia, on the small island of Hamilton, is just as picturesque, owing to its unbeatable location at the tip of the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef. “My favorite part is that they give each guest a golf cart to navigate the island,” said one reader. “Hope to return some day!”

Curious to see which resort claimed the top spot? Read on to find out.