This hidden gem on the Scenic Rim is a Queensland escape for those that want some countryside time away from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. Both are just an hour or so away by car, but they feel a world away from humanity when you are at Beechmont Estate. While it is especially popular with weddings, social events and group functions, the property’s bread and butter is individuals looking for a romantic or relaxing retreat in the hillside. These are five of the top reasons to enjoy staying in the Scenic Rim of Queensland.
The food
Dining here is mostly at The Paddock in the main building, and the food is exquisite. While farm-to-table dining does not come as a surprise here, the caliber and quality of the recipes and presentation do. The small kitchen manages to produce a lovely farm-to-table menu for all guests, served atop starched linens at dinner with an impressive wine menu.
Expect the set breakfast menu to be a multi-course affair that is included in the rates and comes with sweet and savory options. During my visit, the poached eggs served over sourdough toast with avocado was delicious. The lunch menu serves a variety of sandwiches, salads and other freshly prepared dishes.
The staff will even prepare a picnic basket should you wish to enjoy it elsewhere on the grounds. I recommend heading for the tree swing on the hillside for great valley views. Guests can choose between bed-and-breakfast and all-inclusive rates.
The cabins
They are divided into categories like Beechmont and Hinterland Cabins with sweeping property views and larger sizes with private pools and separate living areas. My cabin had a lovely outdoor terrace where I could watch the resident wallabies and cows wander past. Inside, a real fireplace was a lovely touch for a cool evening.
These contemporary digs are straight out of Real Simple magazine with sleek design. Parquet flooring, duvet-topped beds, easy-access power outlets around the room, real fireplaces with firewood and outdoor terraces add so much appeal. You almost don’t want to leave your room.
The beds had soft pillows, perfect after a long flight. Australian products are available at every turn. This includes the snacks and drinks in the minibar as well as the scented toiletries in eco-friendly pump bottles in the bathrooms. The cabins are designed in a mostly circular layout around the main lodge.
The Luxury Pavilion option comes with extra living space, but The Residence is the most impressive for its infinity-edge pool and the full works inside. Expect a residential-style living and dining room, kitchen and multiple bedrooms.
The spa
It’s a shame that this property does not have a pool that all guests can use because the setting is perfect for one. But, the private infinity pool at The Residence is always an option for big spenders.
And you will find guests lounging in swimsuits on picnic blankets or on their terrace in warm weather. It’s almost as if the team knows that the coastline is not far away and they want to rely heavily on this country estate atmosphere that sets this venue apart from most other resorts in the area. It all works quite well with no one leaving with a frown on their face.
The location
This estate is surrounded by the hilly countryside, and the drive up to the property is along a mountainous road. Don’t be surprised if you see kangaroos or rabbits hopping around. In the distance, you can also see the skyline of the Gold Coast and its towering buildings.
That’s what sets this property, which sits within Lamington National Park, apart. In less than 90 minutes, you can be in the heart of bustling Brisbane or its international airport. And even faster than that, you can be surfing along the Gold Coast.
A popular weekend retreat for locals, the spa does solid business. Guests can also organize offsite activities like biking, hiking, golf, tennis and fishing within a short drive. Wine and cheese tasting is another popular option that can be set up right on the estate.
The service
When you are secluded from the real world, your cares seem to fade away. And that’s what makes this destination unique. After you scan into the private gate from the main road, you feel transported into a private oasis. Sit-down check-in is a quick formality before you wander down the paths to your serene room.
You might not see many people, but that’s because they’re enjoying their private sundeck. Others are wandering the gardens, where many of the herbs and vegetables are grown for the menus.
The executive chef can easily cater to special dietary requirements; he trained under a Michelin-starred chef. The manager is often seen serving fresh coffee, food and generally checking on guests around the estate. Lunch and dinner are popular with locals, but you’ll rarely see crowds here. And the service is truly on point to maintain the high expectations.
I used my time on property as a debrief after a long flight. The Wi-Fi was faster than my own home, and it was a great way to decompress in nature before heading into the city.
