Waking up with the waves is pure bliss, but waking up to the gentle rustle of rainforest leaves and the soft twitter of birds is a whole new level of serenity. Welcome to the Secluded Retreat in Noosa Hinterland, the cool, calm and collected sibling of Noosa’s bustling main town. Sure, you might not have the beach at your doorstep, but you won’t be complaining when you’re unwinding by the pool in your own private slice of rainforest paradise.
Let us repeat: private rainforest. That's the main charm of the Secluded Retreat, tucked just ten minutes from the charming town of Eumundi and twenty minutes from the hustle and bustle of Noosa. The anticipation builds as you journey down a winding, rocky trail, leading you deeper into the rainforest to this stunning four-bedroom hideaway.
We instantly feel at home thanks to the cosy ambience that effortlessly blends rustic charm with modern comforts. Sunlight spills over the family-sized dining table, vibrant blankets warm the living area, and every bed is piled high with plush cushions, while sun lounges beckon by the pool. It’s more than just the floor-to-ceiling windows or the spacious deck overlooking the rainforest that bring the outdoors in – it’s the decor. Earthy tones and natural wood finishes echo the beauty of the surrounding hinterland, creating a seamless connection with nature.
We aren't the only ones captivated by the natural beauty here. According to Booking.com’s 2024 Holiday Home Outlook Report: The Design Edition, 77 per cent of Australian holiday-goers say their top deciding factor for picking a holiday home is better outdoor living spaces. The Secluded Retreat ticks that box with its expansive terrace, inviting pool area and garden that melts into the lush rainforest. Following closely are preferences for natural light (another tick) and large windows or glass walls with panoramic views (triple tick).
The report also revealed that almost a quarter of Aussie holiday seekers book a holiday home with plans to spend most of their time inside the property itself. That’s far too easy to do at the Secluded Retreat.
We were lucky to stay here in the lead-up to summer, spending two glorious days lounging by the pool and drifting off in the garden hammock. For those looking to break a sweat, the property even features an outdoor “ghetto gym,” while ping pong and air hockey await the most competitive of mates.
In winter, you’ll find comfort just as easily by toasting marshmallows around the fire pit, diving into a game of Scrabble, snuggling up for a movie night, or cooking up a storm in the fully-equipped kitchen.
A stay at the Secluded Retreat will remind you of life’s simple pleasures – fresh air, cosy fires, home-cooked meals and uninterrupted time with your loved ones. It’ll leave you longing for just one more day to escape reality and soak it all in.