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The best Scenic Rim accommodation to bookmark for your next escape among the ranges

From boutique and luxury hotels to quaint cottages and farm stays.
Verandah House Country Estate
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Nestled in the heart of South East Queensland, the Scenic Rim is a treasure trove for travellers in search for something a little more rural in a state famed for its beaches. Set against some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes, its lush rainforests, rolling hills, and six national parks make the Scenic Rim the perfect playground for those who love an immersion with nature.

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Whether your idea of a getaway is a cosy countryside cottage, a boutique hotel with personal touches, or a luxurious lodge, the Scenic Rim accommodation options bring something unique, perfect for making memories that last a lifetime.

The Scenic Rim also has a proud focus on sustainability, and in early 2025 was granted the ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, demonstrating its firm commitment to sustainable tourism. “This certification underscores the Scenic Rim’s dedication to implementing sustainable tourism strategies aligned with global best-practice standards. By fostering high-quality nature-based experiences and advancing sustainable destination management, the region strengthens its position as a leader in responsible tourism,” says Ms Elissa Keenan, CEO of Ecotourism Australia.

Many of the region’s stays combine modern comforts with local experiences, giving visitors the chance to connect with Queensland’s vibrant landscapes and rich culture. So if a tranquil escape amongst the ranges sounds like the perfect escape, keep scrolling to see our guide to the best accommodation in the Scenic Rim.

You might also like The best Queensland farm stays that capture the heart of the country

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Best Scenic Rim accommodation

Below is our curated guide to the top accommodation options in the Scenic Rim, from boutique and luxury hotels to quaint cottages and farm stays.

Best hotels and lodges in the Scenic Rim

Spicers Peak Lodge, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

01

Best for: luxury seekers

Perched 1100 metres above sea level on the Great Dividing Range, Spicers Peak Lodge is Australia’s highest non-alpine lodge, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Main Range National Park and the fertile Scenic Rim. This five-star, all-inclusice retreat sits amidst untouched rainforest, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts, luxury seekers, or couples looking for a romantic, secluded escape. Enjoy the lush amenities, from daytime treats and indulgence at the Spa Anise Day Spa to a showcase of local produce and fine dining at The Peak Restaurant, as well as complimentary activities such as cocktail-making classes, should you choose.

Reasons to stay:

  • Located in the heart of the Great Dividing Range
  • Infinity swimming pool
  • Restaurant on site
  • Luxurious amenities including Spa Anise and tennis court
Verandah House Estate, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

02

Verandah House Country Estate

Tamborine Mountain

Best for: nature immersion

A peaceful retreat completely immersed in nature, the Verandah House Country Estate is ideal for romantic getaways, honeymoons, and groups seeking to explore the natural beauty of the Gold Coast Hinterland. Situated at the top of Mount Tamborine, the well-appointed rooms feature all the modern comforts you need, while its convenient location provides close access to local attractions, wineries, and national parks. Whether you’re relaxing by the outdoor pool, rejuvenating at the spa or sauna, or getting toasty by the fireplace, this country estate has everything you need for relaxation above the mountains. To top it all off, it’s pet-friendly, so your pup can enjoy a break away too.

Reasons to stay:

  • Coastal or mountain views available from your room
  • Outdoor swimming pool and barbeque facilities
  • Breakfast included
  • 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast.
  • Spa offerings available
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Tamborine Boutique Hotel, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

03

Best for: affordable luxury

Approximately 35 minutes from Surfers Paradise and 50 minutes from Brisbane, The Tamborine Boutique Hotel is the ideal escape for when the mountains call. This stay offers 23 well-appointed studio-style rooms, each with either a private balcony or patio, providing comfortable and affordable accommodation for families or for a touch of romance. Enjoy apéritifs at Peacock O’Clock after a peaceful day by the outdoor swimming pool, or after exploring nearby natural attractions such as Witches Falls and the Glow Worm Caves.

Reasons to stay:

  • Included daily continental breakfast
  • Heated mineral pool & spa
  • Unlimited coffee, tea & sparkling water
  • Exclusive local offers & experiences available

Cottages and romantic getaways for two in the Scenic Rim

Serra House, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

04

Serra House

Witheren

Best for: a romantic retreat

Sleeps: 2 people

If you’re after something a little more private, Serra House in Witheren offers calm, comfort, and scenic Hinterland surrounds just 50 minutes from the Gold Coast. Ideal for romantic retreats, honeymoons, or solo travel, spend the day exploring local wineries, national parks, and scenic walks before returning home to a bottle of wine and a cheese platter while taking in the beauty of the hinterland from your very own outdoor bath.

One five-star guest, who visited this property for a romantic retreat said: “My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time here for two nights away. The location is so peaceful and remote without feeling isolated. The house itself is as beautiful as the photos show, and what sets it apart is all the little attention to details such as having the internal fireplace setup ready to go on arrival. Highly recommend if you want a relaxing romantic getaway.”

Reasons to stay:

  • Open living space with high beamed ceilings
  • Stunning views of the Hinterland
  • Outdoor undercover deck with outdoor bath
  • Five-minute walk away from Coomera River
Vanbery Chapel, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

05

Vanbery Chapel

Mount Alford

Best for: a heavenly hideaway

Sleeps: 2 people

Set on a 43-acre property in Mount Alford, in the heart of South East Queensland’s Scenic Rim, this beautifully restored country church has been transformed into a boutique escape made for slowing down. Calm and character fill every corner, from the mezzanine bedroom with its sweeping mountain views, to frosty mornings spent sipping coffee by the outdoor firepit, and the kitchen brimming with charm and heritage. Here, you can enjoy every modern comfort alongside a private, peaceful country setting.

“This country getaway was everything I needed and more: peaceful, welcoming, and absolutely beautiful. I could have sat on the deck for hours, just soaking it all in,” said one guest, who rated their stay five-stars. “Every detail was thoughtful and made it feel like a true home away from home. I’m so grateful for the time spent here, and I’m already looking forward to coming back.”

Reasons to stay:

  • Restored country church with scenic views
  • Perched on a 43-acre farm alongside Vanbery Cottage
  • Indoor fireplace and an outdoor firepit
Wattle Cottage, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

06

Wattle Cottage

Tamborine Mountain

Best for: country charm

Sleeps: 2 people

Experience the charm of Wattle Cottage, a romantic retreat located on Tamborine Mountain. This beautifully restored Queenslander cottage offers unique features that add character to your stay, from the clawfoot bathtub to the outdoor cedar tub. With cosy linens providing that extra touch of luxury, country charm is the only way to describe this quaint cottage escape.

“We had a fantastic stay at this scenic retreat. The views were stunning, perfect for unwinding and soaking in nature. The amenities were thoughtfully provided and made the whole experience super comfortable. It was exactly the kind of peaceful getaway we were hoping for. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing escape,” said one guest.

Reasons to stay:

  • Restored Queenslander cottage
  • Close proximity to wedding venues on Mount Tamborine
  • Hob tub provided for exclusive use
  • Tranquil and calm location at Tamborine Mountain
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Best Scenic Rim accommodation for families and groups

The Gatekeepers Cottage, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

07

The Gatekeeper’s Cottage

Tamborine Mountain

Best for: a contemporary country stay

Sleeps: 6 people

The Gatekeeper’s Cottage is a top choice for a group stay, offering modern amenities and newly renovated interiors for a contemporary country escape. Located on Tamborine Mountain, this tranquil retreat is close enough to local attractions, wineries, and the national park – just 35 minutes from Surfers Paradise – while still far enough away to fully immerse yourself in the region’s charm.

One guest, who rated their stay five-stars said: “We are so grateful to have stayed in this special cottage. It was pristine and beautifully decorated. It was equipped with everything you could possibly need throughout your stay. The proximity to exploring the mountain was ideal. We will be back again.”

Reasons to stay:

  • Three-bedroom cottage
  • Alfresco dining for entertaining
  • Close to national parks, local markets, restaurants and wineries
  • Air conditioning, fans and heating available, including an indoor fireplace
  • Outdoor dining area with furniture and a BBQ grill
Enchanted cottage, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

08

Enchanted Cottage

Tamborine Mountain

Best for: a storybook stay

Sleeps: 4 people

The Enchanted Cottage is unlike anything you’ve ever seen, as if it were plucked from a storybook. The two-bedroom cottage boasts dreamy, whimsical interiors – from the high ceilings to the suspended wood-burning fireplace and stone exterior – and is the perfect distraction for kids, while offering practical amenities all ages will enjoy.

“A truly magical stay! This enchanted cottage felt like something out of a fairytale. Every detail was charming and whimsical. We loved everything about this place,” said one guest, who rated their stay five-stars.

Reasons to stay:

  • Surrounded by national parks
  • bush walks, wedding venues, wineries, brewery, distilleries, antique shops, restaurants, and more local surrounds
  • Indoor fireplace and portable heater for winter, or a ceiling fan for the warmer months
  • Private patio and dining areaSurrounded by national parks
  • bush walks, wedding venues, wineries, brewery, distilleries, antique shops, restaurants, and more local surrounds
  • Indoor fireplace and portable heater for winter, or a ceiling fan for the warmer months
  • Private patio and dining area
Hinterland Barn, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

09

Hinterland Barn

Tamborine Mountain

Best for: a farm stay

Sleeps: 4 people

Perfect for a small group or family, Hinterland Barn offers a peaceful escape in a rustic setting. This homestead cabin, built from recycled materials, provides a charming stay within 18 acres of farmland. Spend the day hiking or birdwatching, then enjoy your evenings stargazing, firing up the BBQ, and relaxing on the deck.

One guest said they “absolutely love this cabin, the decor and amenities are perfection and it’s so private and peaceful. In a great location too, and close to everything. We will definitely be back. Highly recommend!”

Reasons to stay:

  • Set on an 18-acre farm
  • King bed with ensuite
  • Fully equipped kitchen
  • Outdoor amenities and alfresco dining
  • Two-minutes from Tamborine Mountain Main Street
Alcheringa Numinbah house, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

10

Best for: high-end comfort

Sleeps: 4 people

Level up your mountain stay further with Alcheringa Numinbah House, one of two holiday homes at Lamington National Park. This luxury stay three bedrooms, a wood-fired heater, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large deck overlooking panoramic views, making it ideal for families, groups, or nature lovers seeking sweeping views and high-end comfort.

Guests loved this stays for the fantastic views. One five-star guest said: “Absolutely loved our stay! The house was peaceful, spotless, and beautifully maintained. Waking up to those stunning views each morning was a dream.”

Reasons to stay:

  • Two bedroom holiday home overlooking Numinbah Valley
  • Family-friendly for children four years and older
  • Perfect gateway to Lamington National Park with easy access to walking trails
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Skyline Barn, a Scenic rim accommodation stay

11

Skyline Barn

Rosevale

Best for: luxury immersion

Sleeps: 4 people

If you’re after ultimate seclusion after a long workweek in the hustle and bustle of city life, this rural retreat is the perfect escape – just 1.5 hours from Brisbane. Enjoy the entire barn to yourself, with spacious living areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and private outdoor space with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Situated on 755-acres of lush farmland, the barn gives you space to roam freely alongside nature for a truly luxurious rural stay.

“Such a beautiful stay! The space was spotless, private, and perfectly styled. We loved the stunning interior and fully equipped kitchen. The ducted heating kept us cosy with how cold it was outside!  The outdoor bath and pool were the absolute highlights. Super peaceful and relaxing. It truly felt like our own little sanctuary with how private and secluded it is. Highly recommend!”

Reasons to stay:

  • Situated on 755-acres of farmland
  • BBQ terrace with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape
Guide for planning a scenic rim retreat

Located a short drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim is the perfect destination for a lush forest getaway, celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage Gondwana rainforests, dramatic landscapes, and six national parks. Planning a getaway to the Scenic Rim is your chance to soak up some of Australia’s most stunning natural beauty, and a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of your escape.

Start by planning your trip – are you after a romantic retreat or a family vacation? Are you planning to visit the local wineries, or are you simply looking for a space to kick back, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings?

Consider the time of year you plan to go. Autumn and spring are perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and wandering through the national parks. Winter is a little chillier, especially compared to the nearby seaside towns, so you should find accommodation with an outdoor firepit for cosying up.

Make a list of local treasures to explore, from Lamington National Park’s lush trails to Tamborine Mountain’s charming villages, and the dramatic landscapes of Main Range National Park, complete with cascading waterfalls and native wildlife. Be sure to leave room for the Scenic Rim’s food and wine offerings too: local markets, cellar doors, and farm-fresh produce are all part of the experience.

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