Re-opened in 2012 after a major refurbishment (and re-branding, formerly known as Rendezvous Resort), QT Resort Port Douglas offers great value in a tropical tourism-driven town that is abundantly supplied with accommodation. It’s particularly good value for those who like to self cater, as one or two bedroom apartments come with kitchenettes complete with cooktop and microwave along with neccesary equipment & utensils.
QT Resort is about 5 mins drive (or a 20 min walk) from downtown Port Douglas.
If visiting during winter months (Jun – Sept), check out the Outdoor Moonlight Cinema which shows a varied range of classic and recent release movies beneath the stars on tropical winter evenings.
Eat
Bazaar Restaurant is a splendid alternative to self catering however. And with so many options to choose from it’s likely even the fussiest eater will find something tempting on the menu. Bazaar Port Douglas is set up like a traditional marketplace with a modern twist. Open-sided with shutters, brightly striped drop down awnings, timber floor and whitewashed furnishings, it has a cool modern vibe.
Produce and flavours rule however. Wood fired pizza ovens, classic pot roasts and fresh organic salads are popular. So too Asian wok stations and the freshest of local seafood. At Bazaar, your plate is your passport: journey around the world as your tastebuds are titilated from destinations near and far. Most dishes are made to order while some are ready to choose and enjoy immediately. Regardless of where you start or finish, each dish is created by a passionate chef eager to explain the intricacies of their creations.
Drink
Estilo cocktail bar is another open-sided area that offers a relaxed ambience overlooking the pool and landscaped gardens. Pop in here for a cocktail or coffee, or even a snack between meals.
Sleep
Accommodation is in either resort rooms or 1 & 2 bedroom villa apartments with either garden or pool views. All rooms have been completely refurbished making them feel as though they’re brand new. Modern, bright designer furrnishings create a cool tropical ambience. Apartment style rooms are a great option if you’re staying in Port more than a couple of nights or for those who prefer to have a bit of extra space.
Beds come either king size or twin. All rooms have a balcony or direct garden access, mini bar, workspace and are serviced daily.
There is one 1bed apartment which is fully wheelchair accessible. The entire resort has ramps as an alternative to stairs, making it wheelchair and pram friendly.
Play
Tennis courts, lagoon swimming pool with swim-up bar, gym with lap pool, day spa, complimentary QT Bikes, free car parking, 24hr reception, wheelchair access, Wi-fi and broadband web access.
Opinion: I really enjoyed the friendly casual vibe and staff who made a real effort to interact with guests. Highly recmommended – A great resort at a great price.
Note: Not suitable for those who want to be in the heart of downtown Port Douglas.
Fiona Harper was a guest of QT Resort Port Douglas. Read her report from the Solar Eclipse Marathon in Newsport