Travel
Words Charmaine Yabsley Perched in the lush green folds of Queensland’s Scenic Rim, The Tamborine is rewriting the boutique getaway playbook. This brand-new hideaway is the perfect blend of laid-back luxury and effortless style. Whether it’s a romantic break, girls’ weekend or you want to motivate your staff — count us in! The Scenic Rim has been undergoing a quiet style renaissance over the past few years. The chintzy shops, fudge offerings and Australiana gift stores are still there for those seeking a touristy reminder of their visit; but for those looking for a stylish and memorable escape, the mountains new resident is a welcome addition for locals and visitors alike. Close enough to the Gold Coast and Brisbane to justify an overnight stay, yet far enough away to help you feel as though you have left real life behind, the ‘island in the sky’ has always been an easy place to escape for a day trip, whether it’s to visit wineries, breweries, pick up some delicious gourmet deli goods, or for a dose of biophilia on the many walking tracks. Those wanting to stay longer, or to experience the mountain in a new way. have been gifted the seriously good-looking The Tamborine. If you want to enjoy a romantic escape, a wellness retreat, girls getaway or a team recharge weekend, this 23-room boutique hotel perfectly delivers all the ingredients for a restorative stay. “We wanted The Tamborine to feel like a true escape, but without the fuss,” says hotel manager Sam Wood. “Just stylish comfort, thoughtful service, and that unbeatable mountain air.” The first thing you’ll notice? The views. Every room frames a breathtaking panoramic snapshot of the escarpment below, turning sunrise into a daily event worth waking up for. Inside, the interiors are equally dreamy. The king-sized beds are ridiculously comfortable, perfect to laze on while taking in the scenery outside your glass doors. The bathrooms are moody and luxurious, complete with pampering products by LEIF Beauty and those thoughtful extras(hello, fluffy robes and slippers) that elevate a stay from fine to unforgettable. The design ethos leans toward calming minimalism with a touch of rustic-chic. It’s the kind of aesthetic that feels effortlessly Instagrammable, without trying too hard and sits well alongside the natural beauty of the area. It’s not just the rooms that impress. Each morning, a seasonal continental breakfast is prepared in the reception and bar area. Think fresh pastries, local hams and cheeses, and an abundance of fresh fruit. It’s the perfect time to plan your day ahead or just sit back with a coffee and challenge your travelling companion to another game of chess. The Tamborine’s guest facilities are designed for some serious relaxing: there’s a year-round heated mineral pool and spa(both sizeable and set at the perfect temperature), crisp white loungers and sage green umbrellas that encourage you to rest, read and relax. Outdoor lounging areas scattered throughout the grounds invite group chats or moments of silent contemplation, or games of giant Connect Four or boules if you’re feeling competitive. If the weather isn’t on your side, the cosy hotel bar and lounge practically begs for slow evenings and good wine. Don’t miss Peacock Hour, held each day at 4pm. Trade in your cocktail coin for a seriously good Negroni or Margarita before heading out for dinner. The wonderfully friendly staff also light the outdoor ethanol fire pits each day at sunset. Grab one of the thoughtfully provided pale green fluffy rugs and curl up with a glass of wine beside the fire and gaze into the distance at the Gold Coast lights. “People arrive for the views,” says Sam, “but it’s the feeling they leave with that really stays. We’ve worked hard to create a place that’s calming, welcoming, and full of beauty in the details.” What makes The Tamborine so special is its staff. Their friendly, helpful and knowledgeable nature, led by manager Sam, sets the tone for your stay. They manage to not only make you feel like a celebrity, but one who is a regular to their hotel. Plus, they have an encyclopaedic knowledge of where to eat, where to go, bushwalks and other local sights to enjoy. The hotel also thoughtfully provides guests with a ‘Friends of Tamborine voucher, granting you discounts at selected and trusted restaurants, cafes, wineries and experiences. “We’re really proud to be part of the Scenic Rim,” Sam says. “It’s such a special region, and everything from our food partnerships to our guest experiences is designed to reflect the best of what’s here.” If you want to win ‘Boss of the Year, the site is the perfect place for a team-building getaway, conference or company retreat, as The Tamborine also offers a purpose-built meeting space. With seating for up to 22 people, AV tech, and beautiful natural light filtered through arched windows, it’s an inspiring spot to think big. Catering is locally sourced (the pizzas and local dips are a must), and you can upgrade your day with morning and afternoon teas crafted by pastry chefs from nearby Main St Provedore. If you’re booking an escape for your best girlfriends, it’s the perfect luxurious and pampering escape with all the food, wine and relaxation under one roof. There’s no need to move if you don’t want to! “It’s the kind of place where you check in, exhale, and suddenly realise how much you needed this,” adds Sam. Whether it’s for the views, the vibe or the velvet-soft bathrobes, this is one boutique hotel you’ll be booking again before you’ve even left. Where: The Tamborine, Scenic Rim, QLD Style: Boutique hotel with 23 luxury rooms, mineral pool, spa, and chic communal spaces Standout Features: • King-size beds with luxe amenities • Year-round heated mineral pool and spa • Cosy bar and lounge • Arched meeting space with panoramic escarpment views • Complimentary seasonal continental breakfast Perfect For: Couples’ getaways, wellness retreats, boutique weddings, boardroom-in-the-bush events
