Spicers Peak Lodge

Proving there’s more to Australia’s Sunshine State than its beaches, Peppers Spicers Peak Lodge gives travelers an excuse to head inland. A world away from the bars and bright lights of Queensland’s Gold Coast, this property is a sophisticated and modern ranch retreat, set amid rolling hills and eucalyptus.

The Lodge is nothing if not private — the only neighbors are the property’s own Brangus cattle, and access to the Lodge is best had via helicopter. Most guests, however, arrive much less conspicuously by 4WD pick-up service — not a bad idea if you’d rather sit back and enjoy the scenery than attempt to rally drive up the dirt road to the top of the mountain range.

Featuring all natural hues, cathedral ceilings, walls of glass and a healthy smattering of open fireplaces, the interiors of Peppers Spicers Peak Lodge bring the beauty of the surrounding wilderness indoors. Constellations can be viewed from bathtubs and sunsets enjoyed from the warmth of the communal living area where guests gather for cocktails and gourmet canapés every evening.

Spicers Peak is perhaps as well known for the restaurant as for the lodge. Gourmets are ideally catered for, with multi-course degustation dinners prepared every night by the onsite chef, plus the best of Australian and international wines in the cellar. Daytime activities for the somewhat energized include swimming, billiards and tennis, while the sprawling national parkland beyond the property provides endless opportunity for nature walks and picnics.

With only ten suites in total, service here is exceptionally attentive. Gifts materialize in rooms while guests are out, private picnics are orchestrated at whim and requests are happily and discretely carried out, the relatively a small number of staff lending a warm and personal touch to hospitality.

Suites at the Lodge are comfortably luxurious. Most have their own fireplace, Spa Suites, not surprisingly, have spa baths, and technologies include DVD players, CD player and, for those who don’t want to completely escape, free broadband internet.