When the rich and famous decide to take a vacation, get away from it all or kick back and relax, where do they choose to go? Although there are many such favored destinations, one of the most exclusive is Australia, and more specifically the islands of the legendary Great Barrier Reef.

Why are they so attracted by these islands? For three simple reasons: firstly, privacy is guaranteed, something that for a celebrity is a valuable piece of added value that should not be ignored. The second factor is that these islands provide an opportunity to experience one of the planet’s last ecological strong holds, which is considered part of the heritage of humanity. The third reason is that you can relax and enjoy all this in luxurious surroundings. You could call this first class eco tourism!

And there is a list of islands among all of those that make up the Great Barrier Reef that captures the attention of celebrities. At the top of this list is Kangaroo Island, home to the exclusive Southern Ocean Lodge, an exquisite resort equipped with all the comforts that the modern hotel can provide. One of its most charming attractions is the Osprey Pavilion that in addition to providing accommodation, also offers spectacular views over Hanson Bay … and all for a modest 1,800 dollars per person per night.

Close by you will find Brampton Island, a beautiful national park surrounded by intense blue waters, vast coral gardens and no fewer than 12 white sandy beaches which are perfect for a gentle stroll or a picnic. While naturally water sports are the order of the day, you can also enjoy more “earthly” recreational activities such as tennis and golf.

Here in Australia, the most exclusive of travelers can enjoy what is considered to be the most beautiful tropical island in the world. We are referring to Dunk, a paradise where you can walk through the woods; enjoy imposing views from the top of Mount Kootaloo and snorkel in the waters off Muggy Muggy beach. You can also enjoy kayaking, squash or tennis, visit a colony of genuine local artists or ride horseback on the beach. As a perfect finishing touch to your visit, there is nothing better than to experience an evening cruise where you can wonder at the setting of the sun while enjoying the perfect harmony between cheese and wine.

Lovers of scuba diving will have all their expectations blown away on the small coral islet of Heron Island, which stands guard over a spectacular display of tropical species. Those who are familiar with this location say that the reason they love is so much is actually because of what it does not have: no sky scrapers or hordes of unwelcome sightseers. The luxurious and relaxing experience offered by Heron Island is exclusively for its own guests.

The island is host to 30 of the best diving spots in the world half of which are just 15 minutes off the beach. Once you are below the surface of the sea you can enjoy unique species such as the green turtle, together with hundreds of species of fish, each more beautiful than the last. Back on dry land you can also enjoy the amazing colors of the tropical birds that abound in the island’s tropical forests.

Last but not least on the list is Lizard Island, owner and hostess of 24 deserted beaches and 40 luxury suites. However, the main attraction is fishing and this is one of the few locations where dedicated anglers can enjoy the luxury of catching black swordfish weighing more than 450kg. The island’s villas have their own private spa and the Osprey restaurant changes its menu daily, serving not only local produce but also the bounty offered up by the sea.

The exclusive guests who enjoy these islands can choose accommodation that would be beyond the reach of the normal budget, ranging from a hotel or private villa, to renting an entire island for themselves and their guests.

The Rae is one of the most sought after hotels selected by exclusive visitors to this part of Australia, and for 3,080 dollars per night you can enjoy accommodation, a meal in the restaurant and a spa treatment.

If you are looking for a villa, one of the most desirable is Ewingsdale Villa, a 5 bedroom palace fit for royalty, which in summer includes its own chef, a Porsche Cayenne for the use of guests and a limousine service to and from the airport. All this for just 31,100 dollars per week.

On a par with Ewingsdale Villa is Kalua House, one of the oldest homes in Australia, boasting seven bedrooms, huge gardens, tennis court, swimming pool and, naturally, a small golf course overlooking the ocean. A week’s stay in the summer will set you back 38,500 dollars.

And if your appetite and resources extend to renting a whole island, this part of Australia offers Bedarra Island with 16 luxury villas for 200,000 dollars per week, Lizard island which can easily accommodate 80 in its 40 villas for 454,000 per week or Wilson island with room for 12 guests at 25,000 dollars per week. Maybe renting a whole island seems a bit over the top. However just imagine for a moment waking up in a sun drenched paradise, surrounded by amazing scenery and ocean, being waited on hand and foot just like a king, and saying to you “all this is mine”. This has to be a tempting proposition, which is one other reason why Australia is one of the chosen destinations for the elite travelers of the world.