Going bush
Set on a scenic 12,000 acre working cattle station, Spicers Hidden Vale is the ideal backdrop for a unique outback adventure.
Story by Lauren Broomham
Located near Grandchester in south-east Queensland, this historical station is the perfect place for travellers who are keen to experience the real outback, with all the luxuries of a five-star hotel. The property has 31 deluxe guestrooms and suites, many with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and lakes. On arrival, guests are greeted with the sight of beautifully restored cottages set amongst lovely country gardens and ranging from an old-fashioned Chinese cottage dating back to the late 1800s to a six-bedroom cottage that was once the station manager's home, making them suitable for couples and families as well as for hosting weddings and business functions.
There are four rooms and suites to choose from for your stay – the Valley Rooms are located in shared cottages or single rooms, each with a queen or king-size bed, television, mini-bar refrigerator and a separate bathroom with shower. All are well-appointed with heritage-style furnishings and views of the valley. Those looking for a romantic weekend away will love the Junior Heritage Suite, a sweet heritage-style cottage built in 1880 by Chinese workers and featuring a king-size bed, spa bath, verandah and a private courtyard. The Heritage Suites are elegant stand-alone cottages full of rustic charm, thanks to their charming country fabrics and gorgeous furnishings; they also have their own lounge, sitting room, king-size bed, fireplace, spa bath and luxurious L’Occitane accessories. But for the ultimate in comfort, it’s hard to go past Hidden Vale’s Luxury Suites, spacious stand-alone cottages with a separate lounge room and picture windows overlooking the valley.
Once you’ve settled into your suite, head over to the original homestead, which is home to the main guest lounge and reception as well as the fabulous Cotton’s Restaurant and Bar, which serves up modern Australian steakhouse cuisine in an intimate, inviting atmosphere, complete with a top-quality wine list. Chef Jack Astin works closely with the restaurant’s sommelier to ensure every item on its award-winning menu complements each other perfectly. Spicers Hidden Vale offers all the services expected of a five-star hotel, including a concierge, room service, laundry/valet, car rental and limousine service and massage and beauty treatments. Guests have full access to the property’s facilities, which include a swimming pool, tennis court, golf driving range, croquet lawn, and gym and exercise room.
Families will love saddling up for a horse-riding adventure with one of the station’s horsemen or taking a tour of the property’s many track and trails in a 4WD with an experienced guide. Other activities on offer include mountain biking, walking tours, clay-target shooting, orienteering, archery, abseiling and hot-air balloon flights. The area is also close to some stunning national parks and hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Sicilian Vintage Lunch, RAAF Base Open Day and Air Show at Amberley and the Gatton Pro Rodeo. All this and more is only an hour’s drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, so if you’re looking to head outback, why not take your next break at Spicers Hidden Vale?
Spicers Hidden Vale
617 Mount Mort Road, Grandchester Qld 4340
Phone: 1300 881 435
Email: info@spicershiddenvale.com.au
www.spicershiddenvale.com.au
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