Bellevue at Trinity Beach

The Bellevue sits on a quiet residential street, and the hotel's small reception office is located alongside the gated driveway entrance, at street level. The wide driveway then climbs up a small hill, past the Garden View apartments which face inland, to the main Ocean View building which contains four levels of apartments set above an undercover car park. The elevation that’s been achieved isn’t appreciated until inside: each unit observes uninterrupted views over the pool, to the beach, and across the Coral Sea to the horizon. An elevator accesses all floors in the Ocean View building where most apartments reside, while Garden View apartments don’t require an elevator. Other than the pool and steep descent to the Esplanade, there’s nothing other than elevation separating the Bellevue from the water. 

Three sections comprise the jade-green pool that stretches along the building’s rear, and like the apartments, observes the sea into the distance, so it doesn’t feel confined. This pool area can become rowdy with kids, especially during school holidays given the family-friendly appeal of this place. Guests can come and go through the digital-lock security gate behind the pool, offering a quick, albeit steep, escape downstairs directly onto the esplanade and the beach. Other than pool activity, the vibe here is pretty relaxed -- especially to those who love a good view. 

Trinity Beach sits about 12 minutes south of Palm Cove, and 25 minutes north of Cairns. The property provides rear stair access to Trinity Beach that’ll takes guests right down to the esplanade. Here, Trinity Beach Tavern, a popular local spot for a beer or a meal, is right opposite the beach; and a number of restaurants are scattered around the Trinity Beach area. There’s a Liquorland (selling wine, beer, and spirits) right next door to the Bellevue; and a hub of local shops, takeaway joints, and a NightOwl supermarket is located about a three-minute drive away. Despite the driving involved, Trinity Beach is considered pretty central for those keen to explore. Worthwhile highlights (which really require a car) include Cattana Wetlands (eight minutes); Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Park and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway (both 10 to 15 minutes); and Kuranda (24 minutes). Those interested in exploring the Great Barrier Reef must do so from where boats depart at Cairns or Port Douglas (48 minutes north). Golfers are set with a choice of nearby golf spot: Paradise Palms Golf Course is eight minutes away and Half Moon Bay Golf Club is 14 minutes. Plan on being in the car for 20 minutes to reach Cairns International Airport.

A range of One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Apartments are available at the Bellevue. Most units are located in the four-story Ocean View building and take in sweeping uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea, while the remaining couple of units are Garden View and face the lush, mountainous inland. Decor varies slightly between apartments, but they’re all contemporary with neutral bases, tile floors, and bold accents. Layouts are huge, with substantial open plan living areas and full-width bi-fold doors that take interiors outside to substantial covered balconies. Balconies are furnished with outdoor dining settings, and finished with glass  that maximizes the water views. 

Big open kitchens feature granite benches and breakfast islands, along with stainless steel appliances that include large refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and wall ovens; plus stovetops, kettles, toasters, blenders, and everything required to cook, dine, and entertain. Living rooms contain iPod friendly stereos, DVD players, flat-screen TVs, dining tables for six, and comfy lounge areas. Wi-Fi is free, but the service is spotty. Master bedrooms have king-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms, balcony access, walk-in closets, and additional flat-screen TVs. Remaining bedrooms offer built-in wardrobes and some provide their own private balconies with green inland views. 

Master bathrooms contain spa baths and separate showers, while second bathrooms (shared by remaining bedrooms) have showers only. All units contain washers and dryers, safes, irons, ironing boards, and hairdryers. In addition, units are stocked with a starter supply of dish cleaning products, garbage bags, and toiletries, but all other items must be purchased. 

The Bellevue is a self-contained apartment complex so facilities are more limited than in a traditional hotel. A beautiful saltwater pool includes kids’ and whirlpool sections -- all positioned to capitalize on the sea views. Communal barbecue facilities are located next to the pool area. Umbrella-shaded deck chairs are provided, and there’s direct access to the esplanade and beach via security gated stairs, though they’re fairly steep. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge, but any more than two devices commands an extra fee, and it’s spotty at best -- though that’s the norm for this region. Secure undercover parking is on offer. Live-in managers can assist with tour bookings and local knowledge.