It’s hard to think of a more diversely beautiful destination than Queensland. Blessed with tropical islands, rugged bushland, enchanting hinterland and breathtaking rainforest, it’s the perfect location for adventure-filled getaways. To add a little luxury, we’ve found some seriously romantic Queensland glamping sites…
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Adder Rock Glamping, North Stradbroke Island
Just a short ferry ride from Brisbane’s coastal township of Cleveland (40 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD), North Stradbroke Island is nothing short of a summertime paradise. If you haven’t discovered (or rediscovered) this gem of a spot, you need to – seriously, it’s the stuff of ‘Welcome to Australia’ postcards.
Exploring the island is even more enticing, with glamping available at the beloved Adder Rock Campground. Sitting among bushland, just steps from Stradbroke’s sparkling waters, a collection of stylish safari tents feature Armadillo interior rugs, bamboo deck chairs and all the mod-cons. Our advice? Base yourselves here and spend your stay strolling along the North Gorge Walk, feasting on fresh seafood, taking a dip at Cylinder Beach and spotting wildlife (like kangaroos and koalas) along the way.
Images sourced via www.bookings2.rms.com.au/, www.straddiecamping.com.au/ and stradbrokeisland.com/
Spicer’s Canopy, Scenic Rim
For a sense of adventure-meets-luxury, make your way to Spicer’s Canopy in Maryvale (just over 90 minutes southwest of Brisbane). Based in the Scenic Rim, the 3,200-hectare camp is (as the location suggests) incredibly scenic, surrounded by bushland and mountain ranges. It’s no surprise that bushwalking is the main activity of choice at Spicer’s Canopy, while experiences like mountain bike riding and even laser target shooting will thrill big kids at heart.
Those who enjoy the more finer things in life will be impressed by the luxury tents kitted out with king beds, as well as the chef-prepared meals… best enjoyed by the fire at the grand communal dining area, of course.
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Jabiru Safari Lodge, Mareeba Wetlands
If it’s a real Australian outback getaway you’re after, it’s hard to go past Jabiru Safari Lodge in the Mareeba Wetlands (90 minutes west of Cairns). Perfect for animal-lovers, the lodge offers daily wildlife safaris where you can spot emus, kangaroos, wallabies, wild pigs and plenty of birdlife.
Matching this safari experience, each of Jabiru’s African-style safari tented cabins are a wonderful place to call home. For an unforgettable getaway, don’t miss canoeing on the nearby Clancy’s Lagoon, sharing dinner at the Lodge’s Lagoon Deck and marvelling at the star-filled skies from the jacuzzi.
Images sourced via www.mareebawetlands.org/ and www.jabirusafarilodge.com.au/
Keswick Island, Whitsundays
Love the idea of an adventure-filled Whitsundays getaway? Swap the luxury resort for glamping on Keswick Island. Getting to this picture-perfect island alone is a thrilling and scenic experience – Keswick is accessible from Mackay via helicopter or boat. Once here, you’ll be treated to more amazing scenery when you retreat to your own tranquil hideaway, nestled on a leafy hillside and just moments from beachy Basil Bay.
The safari tents at Keswick are only humble in size (there are separate bathrooms and cooking facilities on-site) but what makes a stay here really incredible is the destination. From whale watching to bushwalking, kayaking to fishing, there are so many spectacular experiences on offer. But with the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Basil Bay right on your doorstep, you’ll be tempted to spend your whole stay there.
Nightfall Wilderness Camp, Lamington National Park
For OTT luxury, book yourselves a stay at Nightfall Wilderness Camp. Nestled deep in the rainforest of Lamington National Park (an hour southwest of the Gold Coast), this glamping spot is about as luxe as it gets. With touches like fireplaces, outdoor vintage baths and ensuite bathrooms with rain-head showers, Nightfall’s hand-built, architect-inspired safari tents are the stuff of daydreams.
As sumptuous as Nightfall’s tents are, you can’t visit this spectacular spot without getting out and exploring the national park. Get the heart racing with a nature trek before treating yourselves to a massage by the creek and enjoying a gourmet dinner by the campfire, prepared by Nightfall’s friendly hosts.
Images by Kenny Smith and courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland, and Nightfall Wilderness Camp
Looking for romantic Queensland accommodation? Find the perfect place here…
