When we talk about indulgence in Southern Queensland Country we don’t mean over-the-top extravagant resorts. We mean indulgence in the true sense – accommodation with class, charm and character, and being spoilt with access to the freshest locally-sourced regional produce. And out here, there’s not just five stars, there’s billions. Just look up at the vast night sky.
Alure Boutique Villas Stanthorpe
How could anyone resist glamping it up at a place named Alure? Picture a four-poster bed, mood lighting and fluffy heated towels at the end of your day of wine tasting in Queensland’s Granite Belt country. This is not just any old safari tent. In the ensuite bathroom replete with double sinks, you’ll discover toiletries, a hairdryer and even a hair straightener. This sprawling 56m2 Aladdin’s Cave is built with front and back timber decks, an eco-fireplace, and reverse cycle air-conditioning. But the piece-de-resistance here, as if it could get any better, is your very own private heated outdoor spa under which you can soak, sip some of the state’s finest wines, and gaze at the magnificent Southern Cross. If tents aren’t your thing, this Stanthorpe property also boasts two stunning secluded villas each featuring a private outdoor heated spa.
Deshons Retreat
This recently-refurbished property situated just out of Kingaroy has only two “retreats”. The first is designed in black and purple art-deco style, with the second a little Andy Warhol pop art-ish with orange and red furnishing. If having a totally local experience is your idea of indulgence, Deshons also only uses Queensland produce in your full breakfast basket. And Jayne even makes her own toiletries – which can only be found exclusively here – from luxury essential oils and sulphate-free soap. Wash your hair in rain water with scents such as lemon, orange, geranium, grape fruit and jasmine. Now, that is pure indulgence.
Homewood Cottages
Wandering through a private garden/maze is one of life’s little luxuries which you’ll find at Homewood Cottages at Highfields, near Toowoomba. The Arboretum – which is Latin for tree garden – boasts one hectare of trees from around the world. Stay in one of two lovely cottages both in very different styles. The Oak Cottage harks back the Australian-colonial era and includes a spa bath, while the Forest Cottage is like a slice of provincial France in all bright whites and blues.
Spicers Peak Lodge
The group synonymous with elegance, style and sophistication bring all those hallmarks to Southern Queensland Country through Spicers Peak Lodge. This intimate offering overlooks the Great Dividing Range and Main Range National Park and has just ten luxurious suites and two private lodges so peace and quiet is assured. As if that’s not enough temptation, sit by the fire, listen to jazz and eat some superb cuisine at the lodge’s restaurant The Peak.
Vineyard Cottages Ballandean
If you like your indulgent escape to be guilt-free, then head to the Granite Belt’s Vineyard Cottages and its green star rated eco-friendly accommodation. There are seven private cottages here and you have the added luxury of the onsite licensed Vineyard Café restaurant serving fresh local produce and, of course, some of those wines for which this region is renowned.
B&B Wanulla
This gorgeous Queenslander built around 1910 exudes all the charm of the houses of this era with its lovely lattice and wide verandahs. Your all-inclusive stay comes complete with a tour of this grand restored home, complimentary drinks or an afternoon tea, and canapés for those staying two nights or longer. B&B Wanulla is part of the Caledonian Estate heritage walk in Toowoomba.
