The Berkeley River Lodge

The most amazing once in a lifetime experience. The staff legitimately want to make it the best time so nothing and I mean nothing is too much trouble. The food fantastic with a French & Italian chefs. The menu each evening 2nd to none! Very comfy bed an outdoor bathroom great experience. The tours are all led by very clever educated people on the Kimberley’s and the views are breathtaking. The small plane from Darwin was brilliant i was a little nervous but was great. The whole place is run like a well oiled machine and that is because the managers Jake and Hanna are very experienced.

Berkley River lodge exceeded expectations, especially as its remoteness would be a logistical nightmare. accommodation, food, staff etc were all great.

Our third visit to Berkeley River Lodge did not disappoint and was arguably our favourite. What Hannah, Jake and their team of tradies have achieved in rebuilding, renovating and refurbishing after a direct hit from a tropical cyclone is amazing. Huge congratulations to them all. Massive thanks to Essie who has worked tirelessly keeping guests informed on the progress of restoring BRL. She could not have been more helpful when it became necessary to change our dates. She is a true professional and a credit to BRL and Saltwater in general. We loved the new furnishings in the villas and the outdoor bathrooms. The addition of the “fridge” is a great idea and can be restocked daily with whatever is your choice. Champagne on the balcony on our “rest day” was a highlight. The hike, boat cruise and sunset drive were outstanding thanks to our guide Jake. He has the tattiest Akubra I’ve ever seen but is so knowledgeable, passionate about the region and a whole lot of fun. A real asset to BRL. The food prepared by the young Italian chef Christian was fantastic, he has such imagination and innovation in all his dishes. All of the staff in the Lodge were so friendly and made us feel so welcome. Special mention to Emily and Tom and the delightful Valentine. The selection of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails seems endless. Particularly loved the espresso martinis. A new addition this year is an hour long massage. Melodie was our therapist, very relaxing thank you. Housekeeping was also very friendly and efficient, they always seem to know when you’re not in your villa and do an amazing job of stealthily keeping the villas clean, tidy and well stocked. Thanks in particular to Petra who is always happy to stop for a chat while driving round in her buggy. In 2026 there are 15 villas available which meant the experience at BRL was even more personal and special. We thoroughly enjoyed our third stay and hope for the opportunity of a fourth some day. I would thoroughly recommend to all. Such a magical experience in the most amazing and spiritual part of the Kimberley.

From the moment we arrived at the lodge, the incredible experience began and it only got better! We were greeted by staff after touchdown on the air strip with a glass of champagne, a great start to our adventure. A briefing followed whilst we took in the amazing view over the Berkeley River, then we were escorted to our room & shown how things worked (not much to know really). The breakfasts, lunches & dinners were incredible, a very talented kitchen crew headed by Issy. We were provided with our itinerary which we loved. We embraced all there was on offer, had the best time on the river cruise, fishing cruise, sunset beach drive, hike, as well as the bush drive. We swam in freshwater pools, just magic & so serene. Our last night coincided with the final day of the 2025 season & what a night it was. The degustation dinner was incredible - another wow moment. The spa was also incredible, a perfect way to end our trip after a day of hiking. We couldn't recommend our stay any more, thanks to Hannah, Jake, Issy & team, Tom, Emily, Dina, Roberta, Bruce, Josh as well as all the other staff, it was an incredible experience, the best we've had in Australia (and we've travelled a lot around the world). Will definitely return another time with friends.

Cannot think of a better Kimberley experience. Staff, accommodation, activities and food and beverages first class