Experience a one-of-a-kind romantic retreat at the new Tiny Wild Houses at Binna Burra Lodge. These individual escapes are perfect for couples seeking a unique getaway, featuring expansive glass walls, awe-inspiring views, and an unmatched connection to the surrounding natural wonders of the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Words: Tanya Joslin Photography: Tony Joslin
Overview:
Nestled in the lush subtropical rainforest of Lamington National Park, 800 metres above sea level in the Gold Coast Hinterland, Binna Burra is a spectacular destination that puts some of Australia’s most stunning natural wonders at your fingertips.
The property’s newly built Tiny Wild Houses provide a unique and magical adults-only experience with access to Binna Burra Lodge’s facilities. The setting invites you to truly connect with nature and each other while immersed in the beauty of Woonoongoora Lamington National Park (this region is Woonoongoora in the indigenous Yugambeh language).
The location:
Kitted out with modern amenities and stylish furnishings, the Tiny Wild Houses are poised on the Bellbird clifftop. An incredible perch to soak up sunrise from your bed thanks to glass walls framing the panoramic view! Our tip? Keep the blinds open to fully enjoy the mesmerising sight of Ships Stern Range and the ocean beyond as the sun rises — and bask in the beauty of a starry sky if you happen to wake up during the night.
So, where is Binna Burra? Set high above sea level in the scenic area of Beechmont, tucked away behind the Gold Coast beaches, the region of Binna Burra is part of the Lamington National Park and Gondwana Rainforests of Australia’s World Heritage Area.
With a rich history dating back to the 1800s, when settlers utilised the abundant white beech trees for timber, Beechmont has become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. And Binna Burra puts you right in the heart of the action.
The name Binna Burra has become synonymous with the area’s beloved mountaintop retreat — home to accommodation (including the Tiny Wild Houses), dining, and unparalleled access to world-class walking trails.
A whole new world unfolded as we left city life behind and climbed to the mountaintop, greeted by picturesque farmland and sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape and ocean. It’s truly remarkable to think all this natural beauty is just a 45-minute drive from the Gold Coast — it feels like God’s country up here.
Best room for two:
Each of Binna Burra Lodge’s Tiny Wild Houses is perfect for a romantic getaway and comes complete with a comfy queen bed, kitchenette, separate bathroom, air-con, private deck and, most of all, those views! The abundance of glass brings the outside in, and we loved the balance of close-to-nature wonder and modern comforts (including a Nespresso pod machine and Wallawa bathroom amenities infused with indigenous botanicals.)
While our Tiny Wild House won our hearts, Binna Burra Lodge also offers other tempting accommodation including the contemporary Sky Lodge apartments, available in studio configurations right through to three bedrooms. These eco-friendly escapes are ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway, designed to blend in with the natural surroundings with local stone, slate, and reclaimed hardwood. Most offer a large furnished deck where you can soak up the incredible valley views. Or really get back to nature in Binna Burra Lodge’s rustic Safari Tents.
Whichever you choose, you’ll awaken to the melodic symphony of birdsong and bask in the serenity of this enchanting retreat that is deeply rooted in nature’s embrace
Food & drink:
Every sundowner o’clock we headed to the Groom’s Cottage & Bushwalker’s Bar for a tap beer or local wine. This heritage building offers a selection of cheese platters and light meals and is a popular place to see in the sunset.
For a more romantic dining experience, we highly recommend the three-course dinner at the Binna Burra Tea House. The menu offers delicious dishes inspired by the surrounding Scenic Rim region. From mouthwatering entrees like prawn skewers and Native bush spiced squid to satisfying mains including Canungra mushroom risotto, grain-fed beef rump and North Queensland barramundi, there’s something for everyone. You can also indulge in a variety of wines and ciders from local Tamborine Mountain winery, Witches Falls, and a decent selection of spirits.
If you prefer to prep your own meals, each Tiny Wild House offers self-catering with a kitchenette, electric cooktop, small fridge, and microwave/air fryer with the option to preorder a BBQ pack from the Tea House. Enjoy your DIY feasts in the communal outdoor dining area (complete with spectacular views) or on your deck with a small teak table and chairs.
Venturing out:
You can’t come to Binna Burra and not do a hike. This section of Woonoongoora Lamington National Park offers 16 walking tracks, with most fitness levels covered. While the five shorter tracks can be completed in a few hours, most are longer and will require a full day (as well as a good level of fitness and navigation skills).
We chose the Daves Creek Circuit, said to take around four hours (we often find the time estimations to be generous, as we did in this case). This picturesque and well-marked trail begins near the Tea House at the top carpark of Binna Burra and initially follows the Border track for approximately two kilometres before branching off onto the Ships Stern circuit track.
The trail showcases the region’s ancient, diverse, and magical landscapes including lush warm and cool subtropical rainforests and wet sclerophyll forest. Leave time to linger at the spellbinding Numinbah lookout, take a detour to Molongolee Cave and, on the return journey, stop by the impressive volcanic formation, Surprise Rock. A truly memorable hiking experience for adventurers, nature-lovers and keen botanists.
The next morning, my husband chose to embark on the longer Coomera Creek adventure (photos above) while I enjoyed the tranquility of the Tiny Wild House and a good book.
Our tip? Regardless of which trail you choose, grab a sandwich from the Tea House before you go and find a scenic lunch spot along the way.
Couples will love:
Finding solace and romance in the tranquil and breathtaking beauty of Binna Burra. Fresh mountain air and long rainforest walks. Soul-stirring views and delicious cuisine. Serenity in spades. It’s all here. Binna Burra offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and a perfect setting for couples to reconnect and create lasting memories.
Discover more about Binna Burra’s Tiny Wild Houses.
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