Get Back to Nature With These Gold Coast Stays

There's nothing quite like escaping into nature, away from the hustle and bustle to restore that elusive balance in your life. And where better to become fully immersed in the beauty and tranquility of the natural world than the unique environment of the Gold Coast? Whether you fancy a luxe country-style stay in the hinterland, an eco-friendly safari tent experience in the rainforest, or an off-grid island getaway, there are some truly special spots to book a nature-based stay.

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Tallebudgera Valley

Hidden on 500 acres amidst the Tallebudgera Valley, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is the epitome of a luxurious experience in some truly stunning natural surrounds. Not only somewhere to rest and restore, Gwinganna offers an exclusive, customised environment designed to help you with everything from helping you live a healthier life, reduce stress and enhance positive ageing.

Choose from a two, up to a seven-night stay and immerse yourself in organic cuisine, yoga, wellness professionals, an exceptional spa experience and plenty of activities that will ensure you come out the other side feeling your absolute best.  A stay at Gwinganna will change your life. 
Where: 192 Syndicate Rd, Tallebudgera Valley

The Mouses House Retreat, Springbrook

An absolute hidden gem in the Gold Coast Hinterland, The Mouses House is made up of 14 chalets set amongst the World Heritage Listed National Park (read: enchanted rainforest) with waterfalls bubbling by and more peace and tranquillity than you could ever imagine.

Each chalet boasts free Wi-Fi, movies on-demand, a hardwood fireplace, lush spa bath, and some come with extra private outdoor hot tubs. Native songbirds will be your soundtrack to this magical, eco-immersive stay and there’s plenty to explore should you feel the need to leave your chalet.
Where: 2807 Springbrook Rd, Springbrook

Binna Burra Lodge, Beechmont

Set amongst the leafy green backdrop of Lamington National Park, Binna Burra is one of the Gold Coast’s original eco-friendly stay options and it doesn’t get much better than spending a few nights immersed in the sub-tropical rainforest.

Binna Burra Lodge offers several accommodation options, from the Rainforest campsite to Safari Tents and award-winning luxury apartments but brand-new tiny ‘Wild’ Houses will soon be added to the mix. Completely self-contained, these houses will be placed throughout the grounds in areas chosen for their world-class view or pristine privacy. Wild houses will be a heavenly option when you need to get away from it all. 
Where: 1040 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont

Safari Tents, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

O’Reilly’s Campground is a breathtaking ecotourism destination found within the majestic World Heritage Listed Lamington National Park. Featuring 17 powered Safari Tents, each of which have hard flooring, canvas walls, a spacious verandah, queen bed and two sets of bunks, these safari stay options comfortably sleep five so you can take the whole family along to enjoy the experience.

There's a communal camp kitchen to use as well as and firepits to gather around. You’re sure to be treated some of the most incredible sunsets you’ve ever laid eyes on from this special mountain top spot. A treat for all the senses. 
Where: The end of Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra

Nightfall, Lamington National Park

Glamping in the secluded wilderness is one luxury you absolutely need to afford yourself. Particularly when said glamping is an eco-friendly affair, in a custom-designed, hand-built safari tent amongst the forest. Nightfall’s experience offers a fully catered escape, with fire-cooked organic food with produce sourced from the Nightfall kitchen garden, the local farms of Scenic Rim and organic markets in Brisbane. It’s a truly immersive stay that will have you forgetting about everything except the exact moment you find yourself gazing at the lush green surrounds of Lamington National Park from the deck of your luxurious, yet down to earth digs.
Where: Lamington National Park, Queensland

Beechmont Estate, Beechmont

Heavenly Beechmont Estate is situated on the fringes of World Heritage-Listed Lamington National Park and the three luxury pavilions and 16 eco-friendly cabins on the property have been designed to immerse guests in nature. Glass sliding doors frame stunning views of rolling hills and lush hinterland. Your private deck is the ultimate spot to relax and watch the sunset over the hills. The tranquillity and sense of space will a powerful antidote to any stress you might be holding on to. The cabins feature cosy fires and a luxe country that gives a real sense of escape. Paddock Restaurant provides premuium the onsite dining based on an authentic paddock to plate philosophy.
Where: 422 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont

Island Shacks, South Stradbroke Island

South Straddie has recently joined the eco-friendly stays fold, introducing new Island Shacks at Tipplers Campground that allow for all the delights of off-grid camping without the pesky setting up and taking down of equipment.

Relax by your very own campfire – amongst the incredible, natural surrounds of Straddie – as the sun sets and then fall asleep to the sounds of the island at night, in your plush Queen-sized bed (with block out blinds no less). There are shared amenities and everything you could possibly need for an unplugged, island stay. 
Where: Tipplers Campground, South Stradbroke Island

Keen to explore more of the Gold Coast's natural beauty? Check out our Local's Guide to Canungra & Tamborine Mountain.