My stay at Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort.

Sally Matheson checks into 5-star luxury Riley Resort in tropical Far North Queensland shares her take on the elegant property located in central Cairns. 

It had been a while since I had been on a plane and the sunshine on my window seat was enough to get me giddy. When I arrived in Cairns, I was in my usual hurry but there is always something about the tropics that slows me down. I was delighted when the taxi cruised along Cairns esplanade for a mere ten minutes before arriving at my destination. I normally head straight to Port Douglas when exploring Far North Queensland, and the 45-minute drive is stunning, but exhausting after a 3.5-hour flight from Sydney.

I am blown away by the tropical elegance when I enter the reception area at Riley on Crystalbrook. The design of the hotel is very on-trend with modern fresh whites and timbers, with pops of green flora throughout. While the reception area sparkles, the pale blue pool glistens out the front, begging for my attention. I am instantly reminded of the international holiday feels I’ve been longing for this year. It has immediately ticked off all my expectations of a quick dash for some luxury in the tropics.

The hotel is surrounded by emerald-green mountains of Rainforests that meet the Great Barrier Reef. Inside, subtle white coral art and sand featured interiors, acknowledge the region nicely…

My room is very inviting but as soon as I check out the view, I chuck my bags on the bed. Then head straight down to the pool and sample the cocktail list. I lie in the sun on my poolside lounge and find the Cocktails as delicious as they sound. I pretend I am a mysterious person with no children on holiday with my book. It is hard to concentrate on the book after the cocktails and I remember the oversized bath and “bath butler” treats in the room!

Unwinding in a warm bubble bath of essential oils and sampling fine chocolates, with the aircon blaring, I can confidently say is also up there with drinking cocktails by the pool at the Riley.

I am surprised but glad I make it for dinner! The dinner at Papercane restaurant is modern Asian fusion, the type of fare that feels wonderful in the tropics. I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and it was definitely a highlight to watch locals exercising on the esplanade, the soft warm breeze against my face, and soothing sounds of a live DJ giving out friendly smiles. The hotel is located amongst the buzz of Cairns CBD and the night markets close by are worthy of a wander. Lux Nomades hot tip though, is to get yourself a car and ask reception where the magic waterfalls are…. if hiking is your gig, you are in heaven!

For more information and bookings visit https://www.crystalbrookcollection.com/riley