Wonderful QLD Hotels Worth A Visit
Your zaniest zzz’s yet
Craving a little adventure close to home that’s far from the norm? South East Queensland has some of the most unique experiences on offer and this includes some pretty weird yet wonderful overnight stays. We’re talkin’ Victorian era vibes, intriguing wood work, star gazing and regal manors.
While we’re still in the thick of COVID-19 regulations, there’s light at the end of the tunnel and it’s shining on our own backyard. No lengthy drives, no flights – only good mems to come. However, keep in mind overnight stays aren’t allowed until Stage Two and even then, you can only drive up to 250km from home. That doesn’t mean you can’t get excited for what’s to come, so do the distance maths, book ahead and count the days until June 12 rolls in.
Note – all distances are indicative from Brisbane City.
Secrets On The Lake | Montville | 110km
It only takes a drive up the Bruce Highway to find yourself in the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland. Tucked away behind the main hub of Montville is Baroon Pocket Dam – a serene lake where the back of Montville and Maleny meet. Winding down the steep hill, follow the road through lush rainforest to the foot of the lake and this is where you’ll find Secrets. A popular destination for lunches and brunches on the wide deck with picturesque lake views, it’s the quirky and unique wood carvings throughout the hotel that sets Secrets apart. Each room is different and features a range of creative wood carvings to reflect the theme as well as prime lake views, magical elevated walkways and artistic details. Check out the Two Frogs Treehouse and Possums to see exactly what we’re talking about and why Secrets made the cut for the weird yet wonderful! The lush greenery and surroundings will be sure to impress too.
Ovolo Inchcolm Hotel | Brisbane | No kms!
Welcome to avantgarde accommodation where eclectic and textured styling is put on loud. In the hub of Brisbane City, the 1930s Ovolo Inchcolm boasts exactly what Ovolo Hotels are renowned for: individuality. Choose your room varying on size or go the full mile and do it right by opting for the I Loft, Socialites Suite or Thompson Suite for some serious character. Think of the Inchcolm Hotel as rock and roll luxe with injected vibes of Hemmingway and Picasso. Ideal for a staycay to whisk you away to another world while remaining close to home.
Twinstar Guesthouse and Observatory | Stanthorpe | 238km
While this may not exude five-star luxury, it certainly boasts stars of another kind. The Twinstar Guesthouse and Observatory is just that – accommodation and an observatory! While the rooms are basic and simple, it’s the quirk of the observatory which draws a crowd. The clear dark skies in the Stanthorpe countryside provide a platform for ultimate star gazing. Check out the 4.5 metre observatory dome and observing deck for the full experience to see the stars as clear as… day? A truly unique experience just a couple hours from Brisbane, this can be considered out of this world!
Alure Glamping | Stanthorpe | 225km
If you want to immerse yourself in the great outdoors without losing a luxe touch, glamping is your answer. Alure Glamping in Stanthorpe have stepped it up, so you really feel like you’re in a hotel with all the homely comforts considered. Yet, step out of the self-contained 56m2 African safari tent onto a large timber deck and straight into nature. Brisbane interior designer John Glynn is said to have introduced a vibe of abject luxury and restraining rustic touches to the tents. Each glamping experience includes a ‘Tastes of the Granite Belt’ continental breakfast basket with milk and bread options, open pantry and Alure complimentary experiences.
Abbey of the Roses | Warwick | 159km
If you’re looking for a stay that takes you back in time, Abbey of the Roses should be your go-to. Just under two hours from Brisbane, you’ll feel a world away as you approach the grand abbey and hotel. Back in the 1890s, the manor was a convent and to reflect its history and those who roamed the halls, each room is themed in reference to the original floorplan. You can stay in the Veranda Room, which was once the infirmary and only bedroom with a fireplace. Or, the Bavarian Room which is unsurprisingly Bavarian-themed and was once the girls’ dormitory and nuns’ private chapel. Explore their other suites to see for yourself how the Abbey has been transformed over the centuries into the boutique hotel it is today.
Old Church B&B | Boonah | 89km
Rewinding to 1889, this Boonah boutique bed and breakfast was a church. Keeping its original façade and charm, the historical church is just one component of the accommodation offerings, which also include a converted bus, camping grounds and cottages. If you’re after somewhere with character, you’ve found it! The interior of the church has been reimagined to become a warm and welcoming abode. The wooden floors and high ceilings speak to the originality of the church, which was originally Methodist and servicing the Milford and surrounding communities while locals from the German pioneering families built the building. Check out more of the interesting history here.
Image: Ovolo Inchcolm
