Gold Coast winter getaways: Spicers Peak Lodge, Tamborine Mountain Glades, PierPoint Country Cottage, Neranwoods, Ketchup’s Bank Glamping

The season for marshmallow toasting, spa sessions and cosy nights by the fire is finally here. From fancy camping to luxury lodges, these hot spots are all within road-trip reach of the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast winter getaways: Spicers Peak Lodge, Tamborine Mountain Glades, PierPoint Country Cottage, Neranwoods, Ketchup’s Bank Glamping

With winter around the corner, the hinterland is in its element.

If marshmallow toasting, hot tubs and cosy nights around the fire are on your agenda, these hot spots are all within road-trip reach of the Gold Coast.

SPICERS PEAK LODGE

Maryvale

Spicers Peak Lodge is as close as it gets to a ski lodge in southeast Queensland - and in past years it’s even scored a dusting of snow.

They keep the home fires burning 365 days a year at Spicers Peak Lodge.

While the Gold Coast simmers at sea level, Australia’s highest non-alpine lodge hovers 1100m above the humidity – comfortable in summer and deliciously crisp in winter.

Constantly lit, a hulking central fireplace – made from century-old, hand-hewn bluestone reborn from Scottish ship ballast – forms the heart of the Scenic Rim’s answer to a ski lodge.

The spiralling driveway is the portal to a private world reserved for a handful of guests.

While the lodge’s lofty luxury comes with a premium price tag, all-inclusive packages and onsite access to one of Queensland’s best restaurants is worth the splurge.

Sit around the firepit, eye level with surrounding peaks, as the sun sinks into a rural tapestry.

TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN GLADES

Tamborine Mountain

Cuddle up creekside at a cosy cabin at Tamborine Mountain Glades. Picture: Nigel Hallett

It’s long been the Gold Coast go-to for locals looking to experience a “real” winter, and Tamborine Mountain is hotter than ever thanks to a host of new attractions.

At Tamborine Mountain Glades you can choose from cute creekside cottages with wood fireplaces, modern rainforest-wrapped rooms and luxe glamping tents with private outdoor jacuzzis.

The hyped Sol Elements bathhouse is set to open on the property in June.

While summer bods are hibernating under winter layers, I also recommend a visit to nearby Franquette to sample their famous ‘flankies’ – a cross between a flan and a cookie – and full hot chocolate menu, including chilli and cinnamon infused versions.

PIERPOINT COUNTRY COTTAGE

Stanthorpe

Pierpoint Country Cottage offers a toasty base in frosty Stanthorpe Picture: Hannah Puechmarin

Tucked in Queensland’s most winter-worthy town, Pierpoint Country Cottage has every cold comfort covered for travellers exploring Granite Belt wine country.

The 100-year-old cottage was restored by Ralph and Grace Steven-Jennings and their four children.

“We can’t go past pouring a glass of wine (from the region, of course) and relaxing back into the deep, farmhouse bathtub,” Ms Steven-Jennings said.

“During the colder months (which are more common than not in Stanthorpe) guests can enjoy a good book or movie next to the indoor fireplace or roast marshmallows over the outdoor firepit.”

NERANWOODS

Neranwood

Soak up some hinterland scenery at Neranwoods. Picture: Hannah Puechmarin

Skip the all-in spa session and splash out on this Gold Coast hinterland hideaway with its own bathhouse and sauna.

Owners Laura and Matthew O’Dwyer listed their historic property on Airbnb after a renovation project to restore its original charm.

With leafy views by day and the fireplace framed at night, guests won’t be blamed if they barely budge from the bath.

It’s not far from waterfalls, including Natural Bridge, Twin Falls and Purling Brook, rainforest walks and cosy cafes.

“The best high tea and scones on the Gold Coast are only minutes down the road,” Mrs O’Dwyer said.

“(In the evening), curl up under the festoon lights in front of the fireplace toasting marshmallows as the sun sets over the valley.”

KETCHUP’S BANK GLAMPING

Cannon Creek

The scene is set for marshmallow toasting at Ketchup's Bank Glamping.

Luxuries like gas hot water showers, fluffy bathrobes and electric blankets make spending crisp nights under canvas extra enticing.

Two glamping tents and a tiny home share this 100-acre property near Boonah in the Scenic Rim and the owners have thought of everything.

Beanbags are positioned in front of a pre-laid campfire, with toasting forks and a jar of fat marshmallows at the ready.