Whisking yourself away to the mountains and neighbouring valleys is about the closest thing you’ll find to winter on the Gold Coast. Those bright, crisp mornings; the crackle of a fireplace; babbling streams; and getting snuggly under the covers. Sounds blissful, right?
You don’t need to travel far to feel you’ve truly escaped, and, fortunately for us, there are plenty of incredible options right on our doorstep. So, dust off your cosiest winter jumper and slippers, pack up the car and check into any one of these cosy Gold Coast cabins and cottages, which are perfect for your next winter escape.
The Mouses House
2807 Springbrook Rd, Springbrook QLD 4213 | Sleeps 8
Nothing screams cosy romance like a setting taken straight from the page of a fairytale book. Snuggled amid an enchanted forest that could be filled with pixies and unicorns, The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat is just a 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast, yet a world away from your every day stresses and worries.
These magical cedarwood chalets are self-contained and fully kitted-out with a fireplace, BBQ, cosy furnishings and some with their own jacuzzi on the deck. Okay, maybe we lied about the pixies and unicorns, but they’ll probably visit you in your dreams at these cosy Gold Coast cabins. Book here.
Pethers Rainforest Retreat
28B Geissmann St, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272 | Sleeps 2
Image Credit: Pethers | Isabel Croker
Pethers Rainforest Retreat brings new meaning to the phrase 'romantic escape'; here you'll find ten sprawling and luxurious treehouses nestled away on five hectares of lush rainforest, with an incredible onsite restaurant. If privacy and peaceful seclusion is what you're after, Pethers has it in spades.
Each of the treehouses are spacious and meticulously designed—from the huge king bed to the gas fire to the balcony affording stunning rainforest views, every aspect of Pethers has been designed with romance and relaxation at the forefront. Oh, and did we mention the private spa? Yes, every treehouse is kitted out with its own private spa, and the attentive team can even provide rose petals, candles and bubbles if you want to level up the romance. Book here.
Gingerbread Cottage
Tamborine Mountain | Sleeps 6
Image Credit: Gingerbread Cottage | Airbnb
Tucked away in the hills a short distance away from Tamborine Mountain, you’ll find this dreamy Gingerbread Cottage. The charming cottage boasts beautiful interiors that’ll make you feel luxe and cosy at the same time.
A veranda wraps around the house where you can barbecue, eat, and sit and read all to the relaxing hum of native birds. Enjoy views of the ocean while enjoying your breakfast and get toasty by the fireplace on the chillier nights. You may just get so comfy you won’t want to leave. Book here.
Witches Falls Cottages
Hartley Rd & Main Western Rd, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272 | Sleeps 2
Image Credit: Witches Falls Cottages | Booking.com
Nestled in Tamborine Mountain’s lush rainforest, Witches Falls Cottages are sanctioned as 'adults-only' so you can count on the serenity of chirping birds and crickets, rather than screaming kids.
You’ll love the daily baked bread and breakfast hamper delivery, wood fireplace, fluffy bathrobes, private courtyard garden with BBQ, and all just a very short drive from Tamborine's local wineries and cheese-making factory. Without a doubt, Witches Falls Cottages is one of the best winter getaways on the Gold Coast. Book here.
Bangalow Bails
Bangalow | Sleeps 4
Image Credit: Bangalow Bails | Airbnb
It’s secluded, serene, and absolutely gorgeous. Bangalow Bails is truly a must if you’re looking for a place where you can truly unwind and immerse yourselves in tranquillity far away from the city. This converted dairy is nestled amongst the hills just outside the town of Bangalow in the Byron Bay Hinterland.
At this wintery getaway, you'll find there is no one else for miles so you can enjoy the scenery, read a book, soak in the outdoor bath, do some yoga—whatever you like—uninterrupted. Book here.
Hinterland Barn Loft
Tamborine Mountain | Sleeps 2
Image Credit: Hinterland Barn Loft | Airbnb
Dreaming of the perfect countryside escape? Then this cosy hinterland barn stay nestled on 18 acres of woodland at Tamborine Mountain has your name written all over it. '
Boasting the most striking warm, wooden interiors and rustic décor, this stay is the ultimate farm style retreat. So book yourself in and get ready to snuggle up and roast marshmallows by the fireplace on those frosty winter nights. Book here.
Private Eco Rainforest Cabin
Tamborine Mountain | Sleeps 2
If you want to feel like you're sleeping among the trees, then you’re going to want to look at checking in to this recently renovated rainforest hideaway. Boasting stunning views from Tamborine Mountain over the Gold Coast, Private Eco Rainforest Cabin was lovingly reconstructed from recycled timbers and uses expanses of glass to give that fully immersive, 'sleeping in the treetops' rainforest experience.
The king bed with Italian linen, French coffee press, friendly chickens and Gilly the farm cat are all added bonuses to this incredible Gold Coast cottage. Book here.
Tree House
Gold Coast Hinterland, Austinville | Sleeps 5
If a hilltop spot nestled in the gumtrees with glorious private views tickles your fancy, this Gold Coast Tree House is for you. The sleek, multi-storey tree house is definitely one to write home about. You’ll be gushing over the stunning solid 1.2 ton stone bath, impressive communal hillside pool, and amazing views that stretch around the entire house.
You can also become acquainted with the wildlife as free-ranging peacocks, alpacas and mini goats grace the land, so you’ll really feel at one with nature here. You can also enjoy a touch of wellness in the form of yoga, meditation and pilates tailored to your preferences. There is no internet at this hinterland getaway, so be prepared to go off-grid. Book here.
Joints In Byron—Friday Hut
Byron Bay | Sleeps 2
She's chic, she's cosy, and she's begging for a spot on your Insta feed. The latest accommodation option at Joints in Byron (which houses four adorable cabins), Friday Hut is a two-person wood-textured, minimalist's dream, with a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and cosy living spaces, plus access to the communal fire pit and veggie garden. You can always duck into Byron for the essentials, but we reckon you'd be crazy to leave when "home" looks this good. Book here.
Acute Airbnb
Currumbin Valley | Sleeps 4
Nestled in the heart of Currumbin Valley, this cute and cosy a-frame cabin is perched right next to a tranquil creek, complete with a kayak available for your use during your stay. If you’d prefer to just relax in your little slice of paradise for the weekend, there are plenty of options to do just that, whether it’s gazing into the fire with a glass of wine, reading a good book in the loft bed, or taking a cold plunge in the rock pools if you feel like a Wim Hof style reset.
While Acute Airbnb is only 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast, you won’t need to leave your tranquil bubble for anything if you pack right—the cabin comes complete with a barbecue, a coffee maker, a kitchen with a stove, oven and SMEG appliances, pantry essentials (including milk) and firewood, not to mention a television, books and luxe linen on the queen bed. Book here.
Palmer & Gunn Tiny House
Gold Coast Hinterland | Sleeps 2
So, you want to experience a sustainable, tiny house vacation, but you’re not quite ready to give up the hot tub and the air-con? No problem. Soak your stresses away at Palmer & Gunn, a hidden gem tucked away in the Gold Coast hinterland just outside Springbrook National Park.
Outdoor hot tub: check. Luxurious bedding: check. A burbling creek as your only background noise: check. Soaking in the aforementioned hot-tub under the stars right next to said creek: now we’re talking, and we’re packing our bags already. Book it here.
Heartwood Cabin
Burringbar | Sleeps 2
This Gold Coast Airbnb is a winner when it comes to prime location—Heartwood Cabin is tucked up in the hinterland, in the ridiculously photogenic Tweed Valley. On the one side you’ve got Mount Warning and the Burringbar Ranges, on the other you’ve got tree-lined views out towards the ocean.
This baby is set on 100 acres of private land, with an indoor fireplace, LPG cooktop stove, outdoor barbecue and built-in sound system. Note the Aesop products in the bathroom, too. Classy touch. And you’re not completely cut off from civilisation either; the cute town of Burringbar is just 10 minutes down the road. This beautiful spot books out early (for very obvious reasons), so be sure to book your stay early.
Cottage on Lamington
Canungra | Sleeps 6
Whether you’re after a trip with the family or a romantic weekend getaway, this quaint vintage cottage has everything you need for a cool weather escape. The Cottage on Lamington boasts not one, but two fireplaces so you can keep cosy no matter where you’re perched, with one indoors and the other out beneath the stars.
Idyllically situated just a short drive from Canungra Village and O’Reilly’s winery, your hardest decision at the end of the day will be picking where to curl up with a glass of wine. Oh, and did we mention it’s dog-friendly? It doesn’t get much better. Book here.
Water & Woods
Springbrook | Sleeps 2
A few things spring to mind when thinking of a cosy escape; a warm outdoor bath, a roaring fire in a little wooden cabin, gloriously decadent bedding and cloud-like pillows. Well, you can experience all this and more at the sanctuary that is Water & Woods.
This gorgeous abode sits nestled under a canopy of trees and just steps away from the Purling Brook Falls hiking trails, so those looking for an active holiday needn’t fear. There’s something for everyone and they’ve thought of everything, even providing rainjackets for those gloomy hinterland days. Just BYO food and drinks, and prepare to experience the ultimate rainforest getaway. Book it here.
Oceanview Retreat
Tamborine Mountain | Sleeps 2
Nestled among the trees on an avocado farm, this tiny retreat is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. and boasts some of the most gorgeous panoramic views we've ever seen. Soak up incredible sunrises each morning and the twinkling lights of Surfers Paradise at night, all over a glass of vino, of course.
The timber cabin has a queen bed, ensuite and all your cooking essentials but the real stars are the leafy private deck (complete with fairy lights) and the garden area below the cabin, which is prime for a picnic around the firepit. Or, many guests have used this special spot to pop the question, if you're feeling bold. It gets chilly at Oceanview Retreat, so be sure to pack warm clothes and your UGGs. Book here.
Blue Fig Cottage
Byron Bay Hinterland | Sleeps 4
A true gem in the Byron Bay Hinterland is this unique rainforest escape. Blue Fig Cottage is a 70-acre luxury destination set within the World Heritage Listed Nightcap National Park. Decked out in beautiful antique furniture, the house exudes luxury and class. An impressive timber deck is where you can host wine nights (or mornings—you’re on vacay after all) or just curl up and enjoy the serenity.
Not to mention the cottage boasts all holiday essentials; there’s an indoor fireplace, a private campfire area, BBQ and a free-standing bath with views for days. We love that this retreat is completely off-grid and has no connection with the outside world—the power is created by solar and fresh spring water from the National Park provides you with pure mountain spring water. There are also over 75 fruit and nut trees on the property and a kitchen garden to pick seasonal ingredients. Book here.
Tommerup’s Dairy Farm Stay
2142 Kerry Rd, Kerry QLD 4285 | Sleeps 13
If you’re the type who can’t sit still reading books we reckon you’re going to love the full experience on offer at the 200-acre Tommerup’s Dairy Farm Stay. Tommerup’s only cottage oozes rustic charm or you can book the whimsical historical homestead which sleeps 13, in case you need room for extra bodies.
What’s best, guests are invited to join in on activities like cow milking, animal feeding, and egg collecting, or to take a picnic by the nearby creek. Later, snuggle under the stars and beside the outdoor chiminea fireplace, just don’t forget the marshmallows and red wine. The 90-minute drive from the Gold Coast to this wintery spot is absolutely worth it. Book here.
Enchanted Cottage
Tamborine Mountain | Sleeps 5
A picturesque stone cottage with leadlight windows, timber interiors and white walls, Tamborine’s Enchanted Cottage is the kind of house in the woods that'd put Hansel and Gretel on notice. Inside, a suspended fireplace warms the open living space.
Outside, the encroaching woodland blocks out the modern world, and the cottage’s garden is a beautifully landscaped mix of hedges and herb gardens. The cottage can sleep up to five guests, so it's perfect for a weekend with your coven. And it's just a short drive to the wineries and rainforest walks of Tamborine. Book here.
Spiddal Cottage
Tamborine Mountain
This wee cottage will melt your heart, with its daintiness and lakeside position in the meadows lining the foothills of Mount Tamborine. Bundle up your loved ones and get cosy watching movie marathons by the pot-belly stove, but not before a dreamy afternoon exploring the postcard-worthy countryside surrounds, or an evening counting shooting stars. Self-contained and rustic Spiddal Cottage even comes with access to a tinnie and kayaks for rowing out and fishing on the glassy lake. What do they say? Good things come in small packages. Book here.
Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat
201 Booka Rd, Upper Crystal Creek NSW 2484 | Sleeps 2
Warning: this place will take your breath away. Set in the forested rolling hills, just across the border in northern NSW, Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat is a little, okay a lot of luxury, but totally worth the splurge. Although we wouldn't describe Crystal Creek as a cabin or cottage, you certainly feel cosy surrounded by all the lush rainforest, so we thought it deserved a place on this list.
All of the private accommodations are architecturally designed, and you can choose between creek-side spa cabins and rainforest canopy bungalows, or go completely blingin’ by booking into the stunning luxury lodge with its own solar-heated plunge pool fringed by tropical lushness. Book here.
Seaview Farm Retreat
112 Golf Course Rd, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272 | Sleeps 2
Just because you’re headed for the hills, doesn’t mean you need to camp out in a musty wooden shack with haphazard décor straight out of the 80s. We’re loving Seaview Farm Retreat for its modern yet still little-bit-country take on a mountain escape, featuring vaulted ceilings, a light and bright sitting area, timber floors, crisp white linen and morning breakfast basket delivery.
While Seaview was first established as a farm in 1903, you certainly wouldn't know it from the beautiful interiors. Once a sprawling cattle farm, today the grassy property is home to a few resident alpacas plus the odd guinea fowl and sheep. Paired with dreamy 180-degree views across the Gold Coast’s glittering coastline, there’s a good chance you’ll want to settle in for good. Book here.
Booked your stay and now need an itinerary? Here's the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain.
Main mage credit: The Mouses House
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