Combining the tranquility of the Australian rainforest with the intoxicating flavours of Asia, Spicers Tamarind Retreat is a hidden gem in the Sunshine Coast’s Hinterland.
Nestled in front of Gardner’s Falls, a short drive from the quaint town of Melany, the Asian influenced refuge is surrounded by natural beauty, inducing a feeling of calm the moment you arrive.
If it’s serious R&R you’re seeking, coupled with award-winning dining, then you may just never want to go home again.
Accommodation
With only 13 villas throughout the property, with 22 rooms total, you will enjoy the relaxed luxury setting in a tropical space.
Each room sports the latest in technology and comfort with Bose sound systems, Nespresso coffee machines, luxury linens, Apelles bathroom products and selection of beautiful coffee table books for those lazy days on your porch or balcony.
One-bedroom villas are designed for two, offering private space, luxurious amenities, open wood burning fireplaces, plus unique Japanese style cedar hot tubs.
The larger two-bedroom villas are perfectly suited for two couples, each with their own private bedroom sanctuary with ensuite, an open wood burning fireplace, balcony and king-sized daybeds with hinterland views.
Dining
The award-winning ‘The Tamarind Restaurant’ specialises in modern Asian cuisine, with a farm-to-table philosophy that focuses on the ingredients elements. Produce is picked daily from the vegetable patch onsite, or locally sourced from the surrounding farms.
The menu’s combine the sweet, sour and spicy flavours of Asia, with intimate tables both indoors or outdoors by the lotus pond.
Having recently received One Chef Hat, the restaurant is the hub of the property with all dishes inspired by the seasons. The talented chefs use Asian ideologies, mixed with local ingredients and western methodologies, resulting in an exquisite version of regional South-east Asian cuisine.
Fitting in with the surrounds, the casual and relaxed atmosphere delivers fine dining, without the pretence.
Choose from the al-a-carte menu, or Chef’s Tasting Menu, a five-course degustation that can be paired with wines by the onsite sommelier.
Cooking School
Located in the award-winning kitchen, the popular cooking school offers two options; Long Course cooking school running approximately 4-hours, and Short Course cooking demonstrations, running around 2-hours.
The menus and cuisines vary between Italian, Thai, French, bread making and desserts. Be sure to book ahead of time as they fill fast and are not to be missed. The perfect gift idea for that hard-to-buy-for person.
Spa Anise Day Spa
No retreat would be complete without an exclusive day spa. Set in the refreshing surroundings of the rainforest, Spa Anise features a mineralised spa, hydrotherapy treatments, steam room and various day spa packages utilising Waterlily products to sooth the soul and mind. Total bliss.
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Event Space
Next to The Tamarind Restaurant and Guest Lounge, a 25-seat boardroom, or 45-seat theatre setup conference room, has a fireplace at one end, with a private deck at the other, offering spectacular hinterland views and fresh mountain air.
The Sala Room holds 25-boardroom style or 40 seats in theatre style, and can also be used as a banquet room or to host cocktail party events for up to 50 people.
All conference facilities include Wi-Fi and AV, with various catering options available.
Location
Just a short three kilometres from the beautiful township of Maleny, Tamarind Retreat is approximately 40-minute drive from Maroochydore Airport and the beachside towns of Noosa, Coolum and Mooloolaba, and just over an hours drive from Brisbane Airport.
If you could possibly drag yourself away from your luxurious surrounds, other various experiences can be found nearby including:
- several local vineyards with cellar doors and restaurants,
- hiking trails throughout the spectacular rainforest and ranges,
- rainforest walks,
- Maleny golf course,
- Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo,
- Botanical gardens,
- local day spas,
- waterfalls and dams to explore,
- cheese factories and so much more.
