Road to recovery heads north

Every great party needs a great recovery session. And when you’re talking about Mardi Gras, the biggest, most debaucherous party on the Aussie gay calendar, you’ll need an equally fantastic place to recover.

While some choose to stay at home with the blinds drawn and a Berocca, several gay venues in the top end of Australia offer great packages for those looking to recover and re-energise in style -” or to continue their partying in an exotic locale.

Skinny Dips, the gay-owned and operated resort and spa for men in Cairns, is currently offering an opulent -˜Absolutely Mardi Gras’ package, boasting six days and five nights of sun, pampering, relaxation and just a touch more revelry for those who aren’t yet worn out.

Guests will be welcomed with a BBQ and underwear dance party upon arrival on March 9, before a full six days of activities and events, including an all-gay reef cruise, a Spa Heaven full body massage, pool party, and farewell party.

Further north, midway between Cairns and Port Douglas, is the secluded Turtle Cove Resort and Spa, nestled on a private beach. This gay and lesbian beachfront getaway plays host to the famed Turtle Cove Mardi Gras Recovery Week from March 9-14.

Several special events are planned, including a trivia and karaoke night on March 11, before culminating in a farewell recovery party on March 13. The epic party, lasting from midday until late into the night, includes a beachside BBQ, quad bike rally, buffet dinner and a dance party with music from DJ Paris.

If you don’t want to travel as far afield as Cairns, Noosa is also a great location for a recovery trip, with a variety of gay-themed activities taking over the coastal paradise post-Mardi Gras. Those heading to Noosa can look forward to a gala dinner, dance party, and recovery pool and beach party throughout the week, with the Horizons at Peregian Holiday Resort offering accommodation to worn-out revellers flocking to the town.

Whichever option you choose, remember to get in quick -” a week of fun in the sun after Mardi Gras is a popular option for weary gay partygoers, and many places are close to booked out.

info: Visit skinnydips.com.au, turtlecove.com, visitnoosa.com.au