Go bush with a country-style pub break

IT’S not every day you stumble over a top-notch watering hole which combines the ye olde country-style pub with bushwalking, and games for the kids. But this secluded hotel in Logan is turning heads.

AN HISTORIC and rustic hotel in a quaint village south of Brisbane is the latest to make it on to the list of weekend luncheon getaways for Brisbane families.

The 147-year-old Logan Village Hotel is surrounded by bushland and the Logan River but is less than 40 minutes by car from Brisbane.

The hotel’s location makes it a perfect stop for weekend travellers heading up to Mt Tamborine or going for a bush walk to check out historic caves or nearby Wickham Peak before lunch.

Logan City Council noted the area’s potential at this year’s Logan Village Summit and has started preliminary planning for improvements of the Village Green area behind the hotel.

Hotelier Matt McGuire, from the famous McGuire family of publicans who own The Paddo Tavern, The Calamvale and The Alexandra Hill’s Hotel, said Brisbane diners were just discovering the secret weekend lunch spot.

Matt McGuire, owner of Logan Village Hotel, and Logan City Council’s Division 4 Councillor Laurie Koranski in the rustic pool room. PHOTO: AAP/Richard Walker

“Lots of families are looking for interesting places to go on the weekend which are not too far from Brisbane but far enough to feel like you are out in the country,” he said. “It’s becoming so popular we are planning to renovate so there will be 4.5 star onsite accommodation for those who want to do some bushwalking, then come for an afternoon drink and stay for dinner.”

A renovated restaurant, overlooking a grassed area will include a children’s playground and provide a cafe experience for customers who simply wish to drop in for a coffee and cake with friends.

Logan City councillor Laurie Koranski said the adjoining Village Green could one day be the setting for country weddings.

Cr Laurie Koranski says the servings are ample and a chef keeps dishes contemporary at the hotel’s restaurant, which will also undergo a major renovation.

“The Village will also be getting a coffee shop in the new-look hotel and we hope the area will one day be on the grey nomad map,” she said.” A walking track along a disused rail line, which starts at the pub and runs to nearby Yarrabilba, is also a drawcard.