Unique Sleeps: Cicada Lodge

Unique Sleeps: Amazing hotels hand picked by Expedia Experts. Cicada Lodge, Nitmiluk National Park, Northern Territory

Perched on the Katherine River just a stone’s throw from ancient Nitmiluk Gorge, the 100 percent Indigenous-owned Cicada Lodge provides unbounded luxury for visitors to this largely untamed region of the Northern Territory.

Its name derives from the word “Nitmiluk” itself, which in the local traditional Jawoyn tongue means “Cicada Place”. There are just 18 beautifully appointed rooms – each with its own balcony overlooking the stunning, primal sandstone landscape – privacy and seclusion are top of mind at this architect-designed eco lodge.

The Indigenous, locally produced artworks adorning the walls are perfectly offset by all the modern comforts you would expect in an award-winning 4-star sanctuary such as Cicada Lodge, including that all-important air-conditioning and decadent outdoor swimming pool.

The dining experience at Cicada Lodge, not to mention the outstanding personal service, is exceptional. Borrowing from the best of native Australian produce and contemporary seasonal cuisine, the opportunity to sample dishes unique to the region is one not to be missed.

Cultural immersion is also on the menu, with fascinating rock art, gorge, river and helicopter tours available, all under the friendly and expert guidance of local custodians of the ancient Jawoyn tradition.

Being located right inside Nitmiluk National Park, options for exploring this vast natural landscape are endless. Put the Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise at the top of your list. The three-hour cruise includes the famous two-gorge cruise but finishes off with a fine dining experience on the gorge as the sun sets – complete with white tablecloths and bubbles – and departs just five minutes’ drive from the lodge.

From adventure swims in hidden waterholes to sunset dinner cruises or simply sipping on a poolside cocktail listening to the pervasive sounds of the bush, a visit to this hidden gem in the outback can be as adventurous or as relaxed as you need it to be.     

Expedia compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site, such compensation may include travel and other costs.