Hamilton Island’s luxury resort qualia has been recognised nine times since the start of 2012, with the latest accolade being Best Australian Hotel by The Australian’s WISH magazine last week.

The magazines’ annual ‘Travel Top 50’ feature named the best of all things travel around the world, from the best airlines, hotels and spas, to the best views, map apps and luggage.

qualia, a member of Relais & Châteaux, was one of only six Australian businesses given a nod in the elite magazine’s top picks, which is a list of ‘products and services that are worth singling out for praise... based on first-hand experience’.

Despite stiff competition from around the country, qualia took out the top title of Best Australian Hotel, and is undoubtedly the pinnacle of Australian luxury.

Along with being named Best Australian Hotel, qualia also featured heavily throughout the magazine, including gracing the cover.

Michael Shah, qualia's General Manager, said: “We’re honoured to have been recognised by WISH magazine in their annual Travel Top 50. The Editor’s comments were also extremely pleasing, as they acknowledged that qualia has not only been maintained at a high standard since its launch, but that it’s improved, and that is something we constantly strive for. As David (Editor) said, qualia is a truly world-class destination.’

qualia occupies Hamilton Island's beautiful northern-most tip, and has been designed to blend into its natural surroundings of native Eucalypts, translucent Coral Sea and neighbouring Whitsunday islands. Its name is derived from Latin origins and means ‘a collection of deeper sensory experiences’, which can be felt from the moment guests enter the exclusive gated resort, with its plush gardens, private pavilions and unique design which combines a sense of space, openness and harmony that draws the outside in.

The resort boasts 60 pavilions, some with private, infinity-edged plunge pools, two bars and exclusive restaurants, a private dining room, library, fitness centre, Spa qualia and two more tranquil infinity-edged pools.