Luxury meets rugged charm at the Beechmont Estate.
Sometimes, the best weekend getaways don’t require long-haul flights or elaborate itineraries. Just an easy 90-minute drive from Brisbane (or 45 minutes from the Gold Coast), Beechmont Estate offers a true escape surrounded by nature in the heart of the Scenic Rim in Queensland.
From the moment I arrived, greeted by cool mountain air and sweeping views of the rolling hinterland, I felt the tension of daily life dissolve. This wasn’t just a getaway; it was a chance to reset.
Waking Up to Misty Mornings
Each morning, I woke to mist softly settling over the paddocks, the kind of scene that makes you instinctively reach for a warm cup of coffee. The verandah of my cabin became my favourite perch, where I’d watch kangaroos grazing in the distance and listen to the birdsong that seemed to echo through the valley.
Breakfast at The Paddock Restaurant was the perfect way to start the day. The menu changes daily, depending on what’s ripe and ready in the estate’s expansive garden. One morning, it was zucchini fritters paired with a tangy house-made chutney; the next, it was fluffy ricotta pancakes with berries picked just hours before. Of course, for traditionalists, the classic eggs and toast were always an option, made extra special with fresh, local ingredients.
Luxury That Feels Like Home
My cabin was a masterclass in understated elegance. A cosy potbelly fireplace, timber finishes, and thoughtful touches like organic Salus bath products made it feel indulgent yet grounded. Evenings were spent lighting the fire, pouring a glass of wine, and enjoying the quiet solitude of the country.
There’s a nod to the estate’s polo heritage in the interiors, from the equestrian artwork to the rustic yet refined furniture. It’s a space that feels effortlessly luxurious, without being ostentatious—a home away from home, but better.
The Paddock: A Dining Experience Worth the Trip
Even if you’re not staying at Beechmont Estate, The Paddock Restaurant is reason enough to visit. Dinner here is less of a meal and more of a celebration of the Scenic Rim’s incredible produce. The chefs, Chris and Alex Norman, work magic with hyper-local ingredients, turning them into dishes that are both refined and comforting.
One standout was the line-caught seafood, served with fresh, seasonal accompaniments that elevated its natural flavours. The dish was beautifully paired with a crisp local white wine, bringing out the vibrant notes of the region.
For dessert, I opted for the cheese selection, which was next level. Sourced from local artisans, the cheeses came with perfectly matched accompaniments like tangy chutneys and freshly baked crackers. Best of all, you could request it to-go, and I did exactly that—enjoying it later by the fire in my cabin with a final glass of wine.
Time to Slow Down
Beyond the indulgent meals, Beechmont Estate invites you to embrace a slower pace of life. There’s something for everyone: hiking trails that wind through the property and into nearby Lamington National Park, a day spa offering treatments with organic products, and even the chance to sit back and do absolutely nothing but watch the sunset.
One afternoon, I joined a wine and cheese tasting on the terrace, overlooking the verdant hills. It was simple but special, and as I sipped a local Shiraz and nibbled on creamy Sarabah Estate cheese, I realised that this was what Beechmont Estate does best—turning the everyday into something extraordinary.
The Perfect Escape
As I packed up to leave, I felt a pang of reluctance. Beechmont Estate is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s a place that feels like a retreat for the soul. Whether you’re lighting the fire in your cabin, enjoying a meal at The Paddock, or simply sitting on the verandah watching kangaroos graze, every moment here feels like a gift.
For those seeking a luxurious escape that’s close to home but feels a world away, Beechmont Estate is hard to beat. Plan your visit at Beechmont Estate—and don’t forget to bring an appetite. Trust me, the breakfast and cheese alone are worth the trip.
Reviewed by Kris Abbey.
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