WHERE IS THE BERKELEY?
The Berkeley River is situated on the northeast Kimberley Coast. If you are looking at a map of the Kimberley you should first find Wyndham and the Cambridge Gulf and then follow the coastline northwest until you find the Berkeley River. If you were boating from Wyndham it would take somewhere around 3 – 4 hours (depending on vessel type of course).
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Guests take a spectacular scenic flight over the Kimberley coast to The Berkeley on a floatplane, which departs from Kununurra. There are two aircraft we use, a 4 seater and an 8 seater. The flying time is around 1 hour, with a landing on the water at the mouth of the Berkeley River.
Note: There is no road access whatsoever to The Berkeley River and no airstrip.
WHICH AIRLINES ACCESS KUNUNURRA?
Airnorth, Qantas and Skywest have flights that service Kununurra daily. There are direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to Broome, where you can connect through to Kununurra. If you require any assistance or have any queries, please contact the Berkeley River reservation staff on +61 8 9169 1330.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE BERKELEY?
The Berkeley River will be open for most of year only closing for a short period from 1st December – 1st March and offers different experiences dependent on the time of the year you visit. In the Kimberley there are two seasons referred to as the “wet” and “dry”. The wet extends from November to April, bringing with it hotter days and balmy nights, along with incredible lightning shows and tropical storms. The waterfalls during this time of the year are truly spectacular. The dry is May to October, with clear blue skies, fine warm days and cool nights. The coolest months are June, July and August.
From a seasonal perspective April and May can be a very spectacular time as it is an important transitional time from the wet to the dry, surroundings are green and lush and waterfalls are flowing. With the Berkeley’s location, on top of a sand dune and surrounded by ocean, you can always be assured of a sea breeze and it being several degrees cooler than the forecast for nearby towns such as Wyndham or Kununurra.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
Baggage – there is a 10kg limit per person due to the aircraft requirements. All guests are provided with a complimentary travel bag that has been designed to fit the aircraft luggage compartments. Excess bags can be stored in Kununurra and this can be arranged with our guest liaison officer prior to departing for the Berkeley.
We recommend you bring something warm to wear in the cooler months when a light jacket may be required. Long cotton shirts and trousers are suitable all year round and in the warmer months will protect against the sun during the day and occasional insects at night. Bring bathers and a sarong or poolside wear, a comfortable pair of sandals for walking that can get wet, a broad brimmed hat and smart casual attire for evening.
We have a reference library and a book exchange.
Mobile phones do not work at The Berkeley. There is no phone access from your rooms.
Satellite telephone calls can be arranged through reception.
Internet access (at an additional charge) and computers are available in the library.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY STAY?
Your package rate includes return scenic flight transfers by floatplane from Kununurra to The Berkeley. Accommodation on a twin share basis and all meals; breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner (degustation style dining) are also included. Activities such as boat cruises along the coast or the Berkeley River, fishing trips and guided treks of the Berkeley River surrounds are an integral part of The Berkeley experience. We will personalise an itinerary for you on arrival, so your stay can be as active or as indulgent as you would like.
Alcohol is not included in the nightly rates or packages and will be charged back to your room for payment at the conclusion of your stay (we accept most major credit cards). A select range of soft drink, beer and wines are provided with meals and on some activities. A reserve wine list, spirits and cocktails are also available.
FITNESS
The Berkeley does provide facilities for people with disabilities, however a good general level of fitness will ensure that guests can fully participate in scheduled activities and trips.
WHAT DO THE ROOMS INCLUDE?
Chalets are available as king or twin rooms. They have air-conditioning and spacious balconies with a lounger and outdoor furniture and come with all the necessary toiletries and amenities. Bathrooms feature open air showers and freestanding baths. Laundry service is available on request at an additional cost.
CAN I SWIM IN THE RIVER AND OCEAN?
Swimming in the ocean and river is not recommended, however we do take you to some special spots where you can cool off in freshwater rock pools or under waterfalls when you join the River Cruise. We do not see Saltwater Crocodiles frequently but they are always present even on long open beaches. We do have a beautiful swimming pool with spectacular views over the coast.
WHAT SORT OF SERVICE SHOULD I EXPECT?
The Berkeley is far different to any other developments you may be familiar with in the area. It is not a bush camp, a retreat, an eco resort or a fishing camp. It is a luxury property that many refer to as a ‘resort’ as it features a restaurant, pool and daily activities. The service is attentive and friendly, yet you will be given plenty of space to enjoy the fresh air and nature. Every effort has been made to provide you with everything you will need for an outback stay, and a range of activities have been designed for you to take part in that will showcase the spectacular location.
The Restaurant provides fresh seasonal fare. All meals, picnics, cruise lunches are included in the packaged costs. Any dietary requirements must be advised at the time of your booking. As The Berkeley is remote, we are not able to access specific foods at short notice.
WHAT HAPPENS IN THE CASE OF AN ACCIDENT OR EMERGENCY?
We have access to the Royal Flying Doctor Service 24 hours a day. There is also a comprehensive Royal Flying Doctor medical chest on site containing a wide range of prescription drugs and we have staff that have completed special Remote Area First Aid Courses. Should an evacuation be necessary a floatplane may have to come from Kununurra an hour flying time away. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
In the event of a major disruption to your holiday plans due to weather, special consideration will be given to future bookings. Again travel insurance is highly recommended.
Anything not answered?
Please drop us a line at stay@berkeleyriver.com.au it would be our pleasure to answer any further questions.
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