Perched high on the side of the mountain, with views across to the Gold Coast
Sky House is the perfect venue to catch up with family and friends for a relaxing break in a beautiful area within South East Queensland.
Gathering for pre-dinner drinks on the spacious deck with a Shiraz from the local
Witches Fall Winery, we were warmly welcomed by locals who really did get a little too hands-on. This made it even easier to forget that we were only an hour from Brisbane and even less from the Gold Coast, and in a whole other world of rainforests, waterfalls, and natural beauty.
When locals drop in
Cooking for a crowd at
Sky House is a breeze with its well-appointed kitchen, and the large barbecue on the deck made breakfast of bacon and eggs a no brainer. To think that it was winter on the mountain and we were more than comfortable enjoying breakfast outside in the morning sun.
Bacon and eggs on the Deck
I have no doubt that it must get very cold up on the mountain as the fireplace looks much loved, as do the shelves of reading material, DVDs, and Board Games. As one local told me as the cloud came over rapidly reducing the temperature, "
Lass, there's no bad weather, it's just bad clothing."
Sky House, with its large windows to capture the views, the sun, and the breeze in summer is just perfect whatever the season.
We made our own arrangements throughout the days exploring and having fun, coming together in the afternoons to share our day and friendship. As a bonus, our accommodation offered enough space so that we weren't on top of each other with all three bedrooms having views from windows at bed height. There was a brief moment when I contemplated a pot of tea and a good book and not getting out from under the covers.
View when enjoying a cup of tea in bed
That was never going to happen with the array of activities and amenities on Mt Tamborine. You can play tourist and visit wineries, two distilleries, art galleries, museum and a plethora of eateries. Or you can disappear for hours investigating waterfalls on bush walks throughout the National Parks. Of course, relaxing with a coffee watching the world pass by is always an option.
We enjoyed the
Curtis Creek Falls bush walk and I can personally confirm that the fresh flowing creek water was freezing, as in FREEZING. (Tip: Pack a pair of sturdy shoes).
Add Bush Walk to Must Do List.
The
Botanical Gardens on Forsythia Drive are well worth a look with the added bonus of eradicating all guilt when you follow up with a Devonshire Tea, sitting in front of a log fire at
Birchgrove Nursery and Cafe on Alpine Terrace. For further information about Mt Tamborine, go
here.
Sky House is a perfect base for two or three couples to explore all the area has to offer. Our three nights was a perfect short break and we came away totally relaxed. It's amazing when you can feel the tension slowly leave your body, isn't it? A week would be incredible!
Just add local avocados from fruit stalls
We prepared two huge casseroles before we left home to make catering easier. Our third night was a matter of picking up local cheeses and other fresh produce during our travels. So I was a little heavy handed with the jams, chutneys and honey. Nothing wrong with a full pantry, is there?
Located at 8 Areca Court, Eagle Heights, you can book through Witches Falls Cottages on 07 55454411 or email chiefwizard@witchesfallscottages.com.au.
The kitchen is a pleasure to work in
