Five luxury weekend escapes near Brisbane

Fortunately, within an hour or two’s drive, there are beachside and forest locations where the accommodation is very luxurious indeed. Feel like splurging? Try these luxury escapes for size.

Is this the perfect beach escape? Raes on Wategos sits serenely above the Pacific Ocean, overlooking the enclave that is Wategos Beach, just below the Cape Byron lighthouse. Boutique elegance and opulence are the keywords here, with just the seven suites for lucky guests. Marble bathrooms, private terraces, gracious furnishings and sea views abound and lush gardens lead down to the beach itself. Dine at Raes’ own Dining Room or more casual Cellar Bar, or get out and discover the bohemian beachiness of Byron Bay.

Spicers Peak Lodge is a classic mountain retreat, Queensland style. At 1100 metres above sea level on the Scenic Rim, this stone and timber lodge feels on top of the world, and with 8000 acres of land, and the adjacent National Park, there’s room to move. Choose between suites or separate lodges, enjoy the Lodge’s infinity pool, Spa Anise day spa, log fire, yoga classes and hiking trails. Food is just as important, from the two-hatted The Peak restaurant or a picnic to explore the sights.

Hazelwood Estate isn’t just a luxuriously exclusive rural retreat, it’s also a working Wagyu beef farm so dining at The Paddock restaurant is a tour de force of local produce. And for a delectable beef tasting, try the Wagyu Cellar Door and a chef will show you the best cuts. Food aside, the 75 acre property is a haven of rural bliss, set high on the Beechmont Plateau in the Scenic Rim next to the Lamington National Park. The guest suites and lodges have dreamy views and open fireplaces, you might get lucky and see a polo match or explore the property’s many hiking trails.

Possibly the best thing about Nightfall Camp – a true glamping experience in the Lamington rainforest south of Brisbane – is that there’s nothing much to do. Okay, you can grab a step-by-step map and a picnic lunch for a memorable hike, or enjoy a massage by Christmas Creek. Just as likely you’ll want to sit by your safari-style permanent tent, mesmerised by the wilderness views and watch out for a passing platypus. Meals are organic and delicious, the tents are serenely luxurious and the forest whisks your cares away. Finish the day with an evening by the fire then sleep beneath canvas far from city sounds.

Beachside accommodation doesn’t come much more laid-back and luxurious than Tingirana, which brings a touch of the Hamptons to Noosa. The apartments on Hastings Street overlook Noosa’s main beach and whether it’s a one or two-bedroom or studio, the furnishings a superbly beach-luxe and you are never far from views of Laguna Bay. Lounge by the pool, walk to the National Park, find a nearby restaurant and enjoy everything that Noosa and Tingirana has to offer.

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