Given the size of the country, it should come as no surprise that Australia is home to some impressive rural escapes – take the sumptuous Dairy Flat Lodge & Farm in Victoria, for example. But even on the Gold Coast – which is better known for its theme parks and beachfront properties – you’ll find exquisite country getaways. We checked into Beechmont Estate in the Gold Coast hinterland to experience a slice of exquisite country living.

While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Review of Beechmont Estate

A 45-minute drive from the Gold Coast and on the edge of the heritage-listed Lamington National Park, Beechmont Estate is a sprawling 75-acre retreat that captures the best of the hinterland’s natural landscapes and culinary offerings.

Turning into the property’s gates, we followed the long driveway up to the main lodge, marvelling in silent awe at the rolling green hills and swathes of paddocks that reach as far as the eye can see. Pulling into the parking lot by the main lodge, it’s quickly apparent that this is a country-chic retreat with an equestrian theme.

Of country charm and horses

Beechmont estate two people drinking wine wrapped in blankets enjoying the views
Soak in the serenity of the surroundings

We entered the main lodge through sliding barn doors to enter a sleek, modern barn-style space; on one side is the little reception area and on the other is The Paddock restaurant. Everywhere, there are nods to the property’s past as a private polo estate, from horse-themed art to design touches that mimic stable features, bridles, and saddles. After an efficient check-in, we’re whisked off to our Luxury Pavilion in an electric golf buggy, giving us the chance to soak in the lush green landscapes that glimmer in the afternoon sun.

Along the way, there are paddocks filled with cattle – this is a working Wagyu farm – an extensive kitchen garden, and vast stretches of lawns and treelines. In the distance, there’s the original polo field – it’s mostly used as a helipad these days – and a purpose-built clubhouse, a light-filled recreational space rendered with soft colours, plush furnishings, plenty of photos and paintings of polo ponies, and boasting reading spaces, a TV, and dining areas.

The cabins

luxury pavilion interior with bath and image of horse
The Luxury Pavilions promise design detailing around every corner

Full advantage was taken of Beechmont Estate’s sprawling acreage and breathtaking surroundings when planning the accommodations here. Nestled into various nooks around the property are 17 Beechmont and Hinterland Cabins – cosy spaces that offer views of the lush landscapes – three Luxury Pavilions, and an impressive Owner’s Residence, a stunningly appointed, 400sq-m residence with sweeping views.

We check into one of the Luxury Pavilions tucked into a corner of the estate and overlooking the rolling green hills and polo field. Like the rest of the cabins here, our Luxury Pavilion offers the ideal balance of privacy and comfort; it’s dressed in natural woods, soothing hues and plush furnishings that perfectly complement the natural surroundings outside while adding a touch of luxe. Of course, there are subtle additions of country-chic equestrian décor – think framed sketches of horses and throws that are doubles of Hermes’ famous cashmere version.

Beechmont estate interior of guest room
Guests can expect modern interiors that let the surroundings do the talking

These cabins also have the luxury of space. The outdoor terrace is the best spot for a glass of wine before dinner; later, cups of premium teas are made in the bar and enjoyed amid the intimate seating arrangement and fireplace of the indoor lounge. Early mornings are usually spent watching the picturesque pink-and-orange sunrise while enjoying a coffee in the comfortable twin beds, though I realise on the last day that the view is enhanced when it’s enjoyed from the standalone tub in the spacious ensuite.

Moments of wellbeing

Beechmont Estate spa worker giving hot stone massage
Be sure to make time to visit the spa

A load lifts off the shoulders as soon as you set foot onto Beechmont Estate – that’s how peaceful the sweeping natural panoramas are. You’ll want to spend plenty of time walking the grounds here, soaking in the vivid greenery, spotting the kangaroos and cows in the paddocks, and watching as the sky turns from ocean blue to fiery orange to charcoal black and back again. It’s almost impossible not to feel relaxed and at peace.

If you’re in serious need of stress release and rejuvenation, though, the day spa is the place to be. Tucked into a little cabin in the centre of the property, the spa features two well-appointed rooms where well-trained therapists deliver everything from massages and facials to wraps and nail treatments – all using organic products inspired by local nature. Soon after arriving, I slip in for a 90-minute massage that’s the perfect pick-me-up after an early morning flight and twisting mountain drive.

Chef’s hats

The Paddock Restaurant food Beechmont Estate
Dive into dining that showcases the very best local produce at The Paddock Restaurant

The true jewel in the crown at Beechmont Estate, though, is chef-hatted The Paddock Restaurant, which brilliantly celebrates hyper-local sustainable produce, as well as the kitchen garden, which grows everything from edible flowers and horseradish to thyme and lavender. The kitchen smokes, cures, and ferments to ensure as little wastage as possible, and almost everything served is sourced within a 150 km radius and plated in creative nose-to-tail dishes.

Dinner is a multi-course affair teeming with fresh, seasonal produce. Each begins with daily, freshly baked savoury muffins, and we sample everything from cured salmon and crab ravioli to perfectly baked cod, but it’s the masterful simplicity of the perfectly grilled steak that impresses so much we have it the next night, too.

Breakfast is equally lavish and changes each day. There’s freshly baked bread, fruits, and yoghurt parfaits to start, followed by daily specials – one morning it’s a heaping bowl of scrambled eggs, along with a delicious mushroom concoction with bacon; the next, it’s a hearty stew of sausages and beans with poached eggs, alongside a salad. Pure decadence.

Even a picnic isn’t a simple affair here. One afternoon, we take a seat on The Paddock’s terrace and dive into a lavish alfresco feast – with exquisite views of the sunbathed paddocks – which includes a wooden platter heaving with all manner of charcuterie, local cheese, fresh breads, and a massive ham-and-cheese baguette sandwich – all served with chilled rosé, naturally.

Final thoughts

The hinterland is a relaxing natural escape from the raucousness of the Gold Coast, and Beechmont Estate is the perfect base from which to explore it. You can spend the days on hikes and explorations, before returning to the luxury of chef-hatted meals, beautifully-appointed accommodations, friendly service, and the most exquisitely relaxing ambience you could hope to find.

Find out more about Beechmont Estate or Book through Booking.com

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