Queenslanders, Valentine’s Day is creeping around the corner – yes, already. Want to really spoil that someone special this year? Seeking somewhere where you can quickly retreat to for a weekend away or short break? We’ve gathered a collection of super-dreamy escapes under two hours’ drive from Brisbane that are sure to get you in their good books. You’re welcome.
Related article: QLD spa retreats for a blissed-out getaway
Mecure Clear Mountain Lodge
Perfect for couples not wanting to travel far, Mecure Clear Mountain Lodge is only 45 minutes northwest of Brisbane.
Though located just outside of the city, this sensational retreat is home to breathtaking mountain views, a tranquil atmosphere, luxurious accommodation, a collection of fabulous dining options, its own vineyard and wonderful day spa – couples massage, anyone?
Best room for two: Commanding stunning lake and mountain views, the Lodge Suite boasts plush furnishings, a soaking tub, a King size bed and double rainfall shower.
Binna Burra Lodge
To truly escape from the rest of the world, treat yourselves to a stay at the spectacular Binna Burra Lodge. Tucked away in the jaw-droppingly beautiful Lamington National Park (90 minutes south of Brisbane), this amazing hideaway is immersed in nature – expect rugged mountain scenery, tumbling waterfalls, mysterious caves and whimsical fern gullies.
Choose from a sumptuous Sky Lodge apartment with its contemporary style or the cosy self-contained log cabins and enjoy brilliant dining, thrilling adventure and a pamper-session at the onsite spa – why not?
Best room for two: Live the high life in one of Binna Burra’s eco-friendly Sky Lodge Apartments. With modern furnishings, unobstructed rainforest views, King size beds, private balconies and large bath tubs, they provide all the essentials for a loved-up getaway.
Springbrook Lyrebird Retreat
From one incredible national park to another. Nestled in the magical Springbrook National Park (90 minutes south of Brisbane), Springbrook Lyrebird Retreat is where couples can leave their stresses at the door.
Surrounded by untouched rainforest, each of the retreat’s self-contained cabins and cottages feature romantic touches like fireplaces and double hydrotherapy spa baths. Our advice? Hole up in your own private hideaway or discover the nearby World Heritage-listed rainforest and its incredible waterfalls and wildlife.
Best room for two: With a spacious deck, large windows, cosy fireplace and double spa bath, Springbrook Lyrebird Retreat’s Rosella Cabin makes for an unforgettable escape.
Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat
Okay, this uber-romantic hideaway is technically located in New South Wales. But with only a two-hour drive needed to reach the adults-only Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat, the trip is definitely worth it.
About as luxe as retreats get, this couples’ escape is hidden amongst pristine emerald rainforest. A handful of glamorous self-contained cabins, lodges and bungalows with all the mod-cons open to the magical setting, inviting romantics to enjoy the very best that the region has to offer – think double-sided fireplaces, outdoor showers, infinity pools and candlelit double oval spa baths. Want more? Specialising in romantic getaways, Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat offers everything from tailored-to-you proposals and intimate rainforest dinners to couples massages and gourmet picnics.
Best room for two: Each of the retreat’s six accommodation options are, quite literally, made for loved-up getaways. If you want to really go all-out, though, spoil yourselves with a stay in the spacious Luxury Rainforest Lodge. Roughly 300 metres from the nearest bungalow, this super-private hideaway includes floor-to-ceiling windows, generous living areas and a plunge pool that seems to fade into the rainforest.
The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat
You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale when you stay at the enchanting Mouses House Rainforest Retreat. A hidden gem in the unspoiled Springbrook National Park (90 minutes south of Brisbane), this unique retreat offers 14 self-contained chalets, each with their own personality – keep an eye out for touches like stained glass windows featuring scenes from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Even the chalets are named after fairytale characters – fancy a stay in the Cinderella, Prince Charming, Snow White or Sleeping Beauty chalet?
Views of bubbling creeks and waterfalls create a blissful setting, while amenities like Swedish hot tubs and raised rainforest boardwalks make for a fun-filled escape. However you choose to while away the hours, enjoy features like fireplaces, double spa baths and a Webber barbecue in your secluded chalet.
Best room for two: Designed with couples in mind, The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat’s Cinderella, Prince Charming, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and Wicked Witch (don’t let the name put you off) Luxury Rainforest Spa & Streatm Chalets are a marvellous choice. Beautifully appointed and with access to private rock pools and hot tubs, they’re sure to win over your own princess or prince.
Secrets on the Lake
Moments from the romantic hinterland townships of Montville and Maleny (two hours north of Brisbane), Secrets on the Lake is where you can stay the night in a self-contained luxury treehouse. Affording pinch-me-now views of the pristine Lake Baroon and its surrounding mountain ranges, this dreamy escape feels like nowhere else in the world.
Also offering fantastic cabin-style accommodation, Secrets on the Lake goes all-out to impress couples. Spa baths-with-a-view, grand private balconies, whimsical nature-inspired architectural finishes and lavish outdoor hot tubs – they’re all brilliant touches here that take a hinterland getaway to the next level. Topping it all off, a lovely onsite cafe serves up delicious country-style fare with a side of more gorgeous lake views.
Best room for two: It doesn’t get much more romantic than a stay in one of the retreat’s penthouse treehouses. Overlooking the lake, each boasts hand-carved wooden furniture, plus fireplaces and double spa baths.
Blue Summit Cottages
A hinterland haven beloved by couples (and for good reason), Maleny offers oh-so much to see and do – discovering quaint boutiques and cafes, sharing a picnic in the countryside and enjoying wine- and cheese-tasting are utterly delightful experiences.
A lovely home-away-from-home in this excellent destination, Blue Summit Cottages (90 minutes north of Brisbane) looks out over a panorama of rolling green hills and verdant bushland, plus the occasional grazing alpaca. Here, four self-contained cottages and a grand house include features like double spa baths-with-a-view, fireplaces, King size beds and spacious decks. After spending a day venturing out, cosy up by a fire with a glass of local wine, keep things laid-back with a barbecue dinner or watch the sun set over the mountain ranges while indulging in a gourmet cheese platter. That’s our kind of Valentine’s Day treat!
Best room for two: Each of Blue Summit Cottages’ offerings are perfect for a romantic escape, but the Kingfisher Cottage is a real stand-out. The most private of the cottages, this charming abode is a winner for its views and sumptuous touches.
Looking for beautiful Queensland accommodation? Find the perfect place here…Helpful links:Mecure Clear Mountain Lodge // Binna Burra Lodge // Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat// Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat // The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat // Secrets on the Lake // Blue Summit CottagesImage credit: www.facebook.com/CrystalCrkRainforestRetreat/
