If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, or you’re simply looking for a romantic getaway, head to the hills - specifically, the award-winning Peppers Spicers Peak Lodge. Located one and a half hour's drive south-west of Brisbane and surrounded by World Heritage listed Main Range National Park, the lodge offers luxury accommodation laced with fine food and wine, along with expansive views of the surrounding area. It also happens to be a valuable nature refuge.
The lodge’s owner, Graham Turner, has dedicated a third of the stunning Spicers Peak property (2080ha) to the Queensland Nature Refuge Program, which aims to protect valuable conservation areas. By signing up to the program Mr Turner is ensuring his property remains a haven for a plethora of rare and endangered native animals for many years to come.
Built in the style of a mountain lodge with high ceilings, fireplaces, rich timber fittings and stylish decor, it offers a secluded boutique retreat away from the pressures of modern life.
Accommodation
With only 10 suites, the property offers an intimate and relaxing accommodation experience in one of South East Queensland's most beautiful wilderness areas. Taking its inspiration from the pristine high country setting, the lodge has been created with its natural environment in mind. The warm, muted colours used in the interiors - charcoal, chocolate, caramel and linen - echo the natural materials (stone, timber, tin and glass) on the outside.
For the ultimate in luxury, you can book a spa suite. Spacious and beautifully furnished with all the creature comforts, the spa suites feature large bathrooms with spa bath and luxury amenities, stone fireplaces and outstanding views of the area.
Dining
Fresh and simple, the food at Peppers Spicers Peak Lodge is a balanced blend of many different cuisines. In keeping with the lodge’s indulgent ethos, you are by no means limited to the menu. The chef can satisfy special requests, and may even show you a few of his secrets in the kitchen, or prepare you a picnic hamper for gourmet alfresco dining.
The restaurant is fully licensed for in-house guests and opens daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Each day, visitors to the retreat are invited to experience one of three lunch menus. The prices for each option are set, but the cuisine changes daily, so every visit is a new culinary experience. Choose from a five- or seven-course degustation menu including beverages.
Activities
By day enjoy bushwalking, mountain bikes and 4WD tours of the area, or be pampered with a massage, followed by a dip in the pool or a game of tennis. By night sample gourmet food and wine, relax by the fire or take in the brilliance of stars in clear mountain skies.
