Perhaps the most remote of Australia's regions, the Northern Territory is a fascinating, magical land of vast wetland plains, a craggy coastline and dazzling red desert. Undoubtedly most famous as the site of Uluru, the Northern Territory is rich in Aboriginal heritage and culture, and you’ll find opportunities aplenty to delve into this unique identity. Although less-visited than many parts of Australia, the Northern Territory boasts some excellent accommodation options — many clustered around Darwin and Alice Springs. Our list of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory includes intimate B&Bs, remote homesteads and resorts alike, ensuring that there really is something for everyone in the ‘Top End’.
Coastal Darwin is a lively state capital, with fantastic food and craft markets at Parap and Mindil Beach, and an exuberant arts scene. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is a real highlight, whilst the Waterfront Precinct’s buzzy cafes and eateries are well worth a wander. Take sea and river cruises, spot rare flora in the Botanical Gardens, and admire birds and reptiles aplenty in the Charles Darwin National Park and the expansive wetlands of the Kakadu National Park.
A short flight or scenic train ride to the south, Alice Springs is the gateway to the red deserts of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This little outback city has a cool, creative vibe, with some brilliant galleries showcasing Aboriginal artwork, as well as heritage buildings and guided cultural tours. Venture to the National Parks and into the outback for hiking, mountain biking, camel riding, wildlife safaris and star-gazing. Set in a remote wilderness sure to delight keen adventurers of all ages, the best places to stay in the Northern Territory await.
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Darwin (Australia)
A modern hotel in downtown Darwin with functional, compact and good-value rooms and a pool. The central location means the city's beaches, markets and main sites are all easily accessible. The hotel can arrange day trips around the Northern Territories as well as sunset cruises & fishing excursions.
Darwin (Australia)
A hip modern hotel occupying a central position on Smith St. Rooms have clean design with crisp white linen, expansive windows and spacious showers (suites have spa baths). Modern Asian cuisine is served in an open restaurant overlooking the pool. With great rates, this is a perfect city crashpad.
Darwin (Australia)
A smart modern hotel right in the heart of the city, close to the Esplanade. Chic rooms are simply styled with large sink-into beds, wooden furniture and blue-green cushions. The best rooms have coastal views. Salvatore's Café specialises in Italian fare, and there's a gym & plunge pool, too.
Northern Territory (Australia)
This crocodile-shaped hotel does not disappoint. Spacious, clean and cool rooms are complimented by top amenities including a a swimming pool and nearby tennis courts. A stunning location in Kakadu National Park.
Alice Springs (Northern Territory)
A collection of 68 serviced apartments close to the Todd River in central Alice Springs. Modern spaces offer one, two or three bedrooms, with well-equipped kitchens, dining spaces & sitting rooms. Guests share access to a swimming pool, BBQ area & meeting rooms. Nearby restaurants are a walk away.
Darwin (Northern Territory)
With its own private beach area, an infinity and lagoon pool and popular casino, this is Darwin's liveliest resort. Set within 30 acres of seaside gardens, contemporary interiors are clad in white & cream tones, and suites have free-standing tubs. Multiple buzzy bars and eateries await.
Darwin (Australia)
A chic modern hotel located right on Waterfront Precinct offering rooms at very attractive prices. Minimalist bedrooms are all white-on-white with large picture windows and indulgent modern bathrooms. Downstairs is a half-covered pool and a relaxed cafe. An affordable yet stylish stay in Darwin.
Alice Springs (Northern Territory)
Three eco-tents offer an immersion into the Central Australian wilderness on the edge of the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Tents with en-suite bathrooms feature cosy double beds — or 3 singles — topped with patterned quilts & facing mountain-view decks. Evening BBQs & campfires are very special.
Alice Springs (Northern Territory)
A big hotel bordering the Todd River on the south-eastern side of Alice Springs, with 229 modern rooms & suites. The best rooms have space for extra beds, bathtubs & impressive views of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. A swimming pool, casino and multiple eateries complete the picture.
Northern Territory (Groote Eylandt)
A simple lodge on the remote Groote Eylandt, with traditional bungalows boasting garden & sea-facing decks. Classic interiors have ocean-inspired artwork, bathtubs and bright textiles. Famed for its fishing charters & adventurous island tours, the lodge also has a refreshing pool & good restaurant.
Alice Springs (Northern Territory)
Four comfortable multi-bedroom apartments and a studio sit around a refreshing lagoon pool in northern Alice Springs. Eclectic spaces feature Aboriginal artwork — some for sale — plus bright textiles and garden views. Well-equipped kitchens, sitting rooms & inviting decks are ideal for longer stays.
Northern Territory (Australia)
Luxury hotel offering spacious, air conditioned ensuite rooms and a swimming pool with magnificent views across the Katherine gorge. Original work by Australian artists hangs on walls. Take advantage of indigenous guides and wildlife tours to take in this unique landscape.
Alice Springs (Northern Territory)
A laid-back adventurer's dream, this 600-acre slice of the outback — once a filmset — promises rustic cabins, glamping tents & a campsite with dazzling views. The restaurant-bar serves cracking Australian fare & live music nights are hugely popular. Expect starlit skies & a real sense of seclusion.
Darwin (Australia)
A collection of sleek waterfront apartments perfectly located in the heart of Darwin. Ranging from one-bed to three-beds, this is a great choice for families or groups. With chic minimalist style, fabulous views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern kitchens - this is an idyllic city base.
Yulara (Northern Territory)
Part of the expansive Ayers Rock Resort, Sails in the Desert is a luxurious hotel with an impressive collection of Aboriginal artwork. Spacious rooms & suites have whitewashed walls, patterned textiles & modern bathrooms. There's an onsite gallery, spa, tennis court, pool & two eateries, too.
Northern Territory (Northern Territory)
A sensational escape with just 12 guest rooms in a retro farmhouse on a vast, 400,000-acre cattle station. Immerse yourself in the magic of the outback, with elegant rooms featuring handwoven textiles, wrought-iron beds & garden views. Produce is sourced from the grounds & activities abound. Epic!
Northern Territory (Australia)
Wild bush luxury comes no better than this, with 9 spacious standalone bungalows situated amongst the pandanus vegetation on the edge of the Mary River wetlands. Organic cotton sheets and high pressure showers ensure comfort, the food is fabulous & the wildlife-spotting opportunities are endless.
Yulara (Northern Territory)
With breathtaking views out to the sacred Uluru rock, this is the ultimate glamping experience. Every need is catered for, with luxurious tents & pavilions combining style, sophistication and comfort in the most glorious way. The beautiful spa & al fresco dining under the stars are not to be missed.