We don’t like to sound too confident, but we think that our retreats are set in some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes this country has to offer.
It’s because of this, that we believe one of the most important things for guests to do when staying with us, is to get out and explore. Don’t get us wrong, we love our comfy beds and our delicious food, but perhaps one of the most exciting things about our retreats, is discovering the character and charm of the destination.
So to help you discover the hidden gems of each destination, here’s our team’s must visit insider tips.
Spicers Sangoma Retreat
Blue Mountains Botanic Garden
It’s the highest botanic garden in Australia, situated 1000 metres above sea level in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area and only 30 minutes drive fromSpicers SangomaRetreat. Stroll through rain forests or marvel at the Garden’s ancient conifers, giant redwoods and colourful flowering plants through all seasons and soak in the panoramic views.
Spicers Peak Lodge
Arthur Clive’s Family Bakehouse
Be sure not to miss this quaint Family Bakehouse on the way through to Spicers Peak Lodge (about 40km from the retreat). Acting as the perfect pit stop for those en route to Peak Lodge or heading home, this bakery is jam packed filled with sumptuous sweets and savoury sensations. Don’t go past their salted caramel cheese cake puffs!  (The Spicers team find it hard not to!)
Spicers Tamarind Retreat
Gardners Falls
Ensure you rise early and walk to Gardners Falls.  Not only is it perfect for a summer dip and for scenic picnics, if you’re lucky enough you might even catch a platypus in one of the few natural breeding spots in the hinterland!
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Jan Power’s Powerhouse Farmers Market
Jan Power’s Powerhouse Farmers Markets is a soul-warming, grassroots outing with a strong community focus that makes it a must-do activity in Brisbane. Get ready for a colourful bustling market that boasts bountiful fresh farm produce,  flowers, artisan products and loads more that are sure to keep you busy browsing all morning.  The Jan Powers Farmers Markets in front of the Brisbane Powerhouse, Lamington St Newfarm are on every Saturday of the month from 6 am until 12 noon. Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland
Spicers Hidden Vale
Four Hearts Brewery
Located around 40 minutes from Spicers Hidden Vale, Four Hearts brewing is all about brewing beer full of flavour, with no chemicals. Set in a heritage listed 100 year old house, this boutique brewery is full of charm and a definite must-see when in the area. Photo courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland
Spicers Clovelly Estate
Falls Farm
Falls Farm is owned and operated by a local green-thumb family on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland who produce organic fruits, vegetables and herbs. See where the two-hatted Long Apron restaurant gets their beautiful produce, sample the goodness, meet and support local farmers, explore their gorgeous property and soak in the ambiance. Photo courtesy of The Falls Farm
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Ogishi Glass Blowing
Setsuko Ogishi is a Japanese artist who first began her career in painting, but after moving to Australia began to develop her talent for glassblowing. Now having won numerous awards for excellence in her craft and having exhibited her work at major exhibitions throughout Australia, Ogishi now offers glassblowing classes to the public from her Hunter Valley studio that are unmissable for those wanting a unique and creative experience.
Our teams can help you put together an itinerary of discovery to explore the Hidden Gems at each destination.
