Want to curl up next to a crackling fire while it’s cold outside? The Scenic Rim has just the spot.
If you’re dreaming of a toasty winter retreat complete with a roaring fireplace, a bottle of wine and a cheese platter, the Scenic Rim is calling. It’s the perfect destination to experience frosty mornings, clear blue-sky days, and snappy cold nights this winter. So, whether you’re a Queenslander or visiting from interstate, pack your bags for this list of 13 cosy escapes that are just a playlist away from Brisbane.
Eighteen Mile Cottage and Homestead
Eighteen Mile Homestead in Darlington is the perfect tree change experience. The tastefully decorated two-bedroom timber cottage sleeps up to four people and features an outdoor firepit with log seating. The larger family-friendly homestead caters sleeps 15 people and has two fireplaces. The inside fireplace is a traditional open chimney style, while outside there is a designated fire pit area with seating. Firewood and a large cooking plate are provided, so visitors can rustle up some dinner over an open flame.
Lumiere Farmhouse
This lovingly restored, century-old farmhouse in Woolooman is set on two acres surrounded by rolling hills. The property features all the comforts of home, including a fireplace in the living area, making it the perfect spot to curl up on the couch with a good book while listening to the crackling flames. There’s also a huge fire pit outside, perfect for a glass of wine and a few tunes. Check them out on Air BnB.
Wongari Eco Retreat
Go off the grid and reconnect with nature at Wongari Eco Retreat, 40 minutes south of Beaudesert in Lamington. Choose from two self-contained cabins, each with their own unique views and experiences. The ‘Serenity’ cabin is nestled in the forest, set beside the waters of Christmas Creek. Open to the forest canopies, the ‘Bimbul’ cabin offers expansive 360-degree views of the mountains. Each cabin has fireplaces inside and out, guaranteed to keep you toasty on even the coldest of nights. Get in early for this one – availability is limited. Check out dates and pricing here.
Greenlee Cottages
Featuring four contemporary cottages all with their own rustic charm, Greenlee Cottages offers a peaceful weekend away with picturesque views of the Canungra Valley. Breakfast baskets are included and give guests a charming taste of some of the area’s local produce. Near the creek, visitors will find a communal fire pit – the perfect spot to savour gooey marshmallows while admiring the starry skies of the Scenic Rim.
Cedar Glen Farmstay
Get a taste of genuine country living on a real working farm at the Historic Cedar Glen Farmstay in Beaudesert. Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, four private historic accommodation options are available, including the Cedar Glen Homestead, Stinson Cottage, Wallaby Cottage and Dairy Cottage. Three of their cottages have an indoor pot-belly fireplace and outdoor fire pits, so your party can stay cosy whether inside or out.
Scenic Rim Adventure Park
If camping, hiking, mountain bike riding and four-wheel driving are more your style, the Scenic Rim Adventure Park is located on a 680-acre property at Tamrookum Creek. There are 14 individual camping areas located throughout the property, and they all have their own campfire locations. Guests can purchase cut firewood at the park entry or are welcome to collect their own from around the property. Head here to stoke the flames of your next rural adventure.
Hanoob Views
The owners of Hanoob Views understand your pets are part of the family. That’s why their two houses welcome them too! Located in Carney’s Creek, the two properties are private from each other and feature all the creature comforts you need. In each living room, there are wood burning fireplaces where you can rug up and spend an evening tasting flavours of the Scenic Rim or playing a board game, all with your four-legged mate.
Herrmann House
Step back in time to an era long-gone at the historic Herrmann House in gorgeous Kalbar. Inside the stunningly restored house, there are four double bedrooms and two fireplaces, beautifully fitted out. An extra fire pit in the conifer garden completes the deal to give guests that true country winter experience.
Worendo Cottages
Escape from the fast lane in this stunning wilderness setting overlooking the World Heritage Rainforest Mountains of Lamington National Park. The three Worendo Cottages feature indoor fireplaces, and all have an outdoor campfire setting where you can gather under the stars with free firewood and marshmallows. Check your preferred dates and find the best rate here.
The Old Church Bed and Breakfast
For a heavenly stay in the Scenic Rim, reserve a room at this old historic church located in Boonah. Guests can choose from rooms with private ensuites and verandas in the church, or the adjoining self-contained studio. Travelers are sure to keep warm throughout their stay with both an inside fireplace and outdoor fire pit to hand. Book at the Old Church here.
Pethers Rainforest Retreat
This private and secluded retreat on Tamborine Mountain has been exclusively designed for adults and is set on five hectares of pristine rainforest. Each of Pethers’ 10 private treehouses are surrounded by lush greenery and include a spa for two and a fireplace, meaning guests can fully unwind and relax in style. The award-winning restaurant also hosts a large, open sided fireplace, so you’ll definitely feel extra warm while enjoying your meal. Cosy up in this romantic rainforest getaway by booking here.
The Grove Cottage and Olive Grove
Nestled next to a boutique olive grove, the cottage is only short drive to both Boonah and Kalbar. The Grove Cottage has a beautiful vintage-style fireplace with views overlooking the olive grove, in addition to a fire pit where guests can enjoy a barbecue. Chew on some sugary smores while enjoying the cotton candy-coloured skies of a majestic Scenic Rim sunset. Click here to book.
Binna Burra Sky Lodges and Rainforest Campsite
Relax in comfort high above the clouds at the famous Binna Burra Sky Lodges and Rainforest Campsite. At 800m above sea level, Binna Burra sits amidst the sub-tropical rainforest of Lamington National Park – you’re literally on top of the world. Each of the Sky Lodge apartments have fireplaces, and the huge windows behold breath-taking views. Or camp (or campervan) at the Rainforest Campsite, complete with multiple communal firepits. A safari tent with its own private firepit is also available, subject to availability.
To discover what amazing adventures await nearby on the Gold coast, click here.
Travel to the Scenic Rim
Rex flies to the Gold Coast! Book your flights here and check out the route map below for more information.
