Disconnect to reconnect:
Brisbane's best off-grid accommodation offerings
Feeling the call of the wild from your workplace today? Sometimes you have to disconnect to reconnect. At these off-grid accommodation options you can surround yourself in the natural splendour of some seriously lush, green settings just beyond Brisbane – and enjoy a dose of fresh air and relaxation.
At these stays, it’s all about reconnection: with yourself, a loved one, or nature. From camping to glamping and chic eco-conscious luxury stays, there’s an off-grid stay to suit every travellers’ tastes. How’s the serenity?
Wander at the Overflow 1985, Scenic Rim
On the verdant grounds of The Overflow Estate 1985 in the Scenic Rim, on Mununjali Country, lies Wander. Looking out over Lake Wyaralong and 4,000 acres of picturesque bushland are five secluded WanderPods. These design-savvy, sophisticated pods celebrate their surrounding landscape and place their visitors near scenic walks and natural wonders to explore, just a 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane airport.
While you’re on site, you can partake in outdoor yoga sessions, guided bushwalks, and visit the Estate’s cellar door for all-important provisions. Or, just sit back and enjoy watching the wildlife at play (preferably, from the comfort of your outdoor bathtub). Ideal for solo retreats, romantic escapes and a spot of nature immersion.
Ketchup’s Bank Glamping, Scenic Rim
Emphasising the ‘glam’ in ‘glamping,’ Ketchup’s Bank Glamping is home to luxury glamping tents, an all-new tiny house eco retreat, and a whole lot of naturally beautiful scenery. Each off-grid accommodation option boasts a mountainous backdrop, a front-row view to nature at play, plenty of creature comforts and, of course, much-needed tranquillity.
Ocean View Estates, Moreton Bay
As far as off-grid accommodation is concerned, there are few stays better suited to wine lovers than the resplendent Ocean View Estates’ offerings. Wake up among the vines and birdsong at Cabernet Cottage, Shiraz Cottage or the Winemakers Cottage. Beautiful in any season, Ocean View Estates is an idyllic location from which to slow down, wine in hand, and disconnect from the bustle of life.
With some of life’s simplest pleasures on hand – think crackling fires, an outdoor bath, a neighbouring restaurant and top-notch wines – it’s almost impossible not to relax at this zen-inspiring site.
O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Scenic Rim
Set among one of Australia’s most iconic rainforests, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat feels a world away. This tree-girt stay caters to every type of traveller, from camping enthusiasts who really want to immerse themselves in nature, to those who prefer a four-post-bed, wake-up-in-luxury type of retreat. Self-contained villas marry the best of both worlds with outdoor spas and rooms with views that are designed to connect guests with nature.
And yet, no matter which style of accommodation you choose to book, all guests are treated to tranquillity and inimitable outlooks. You can also immerse yourself in nature further with a tour of the nearby glow-worm caves, guided storytelling walks, wildlife encounters, segway tours and stargazing experiences.
Mt Cotton Retreat, Redlands Coast
A short, 35-minute drive from the centre of Brisbane lands you in the leafy suburb of Mt Cotton, where a boutique hotel and romantic, private, secluded cabins reside. At Mt Cotton Retreat, you can sleep among the treetops, stay lakeside, or opt for cottage accommodation. Each of the off-grid accommodation options are pet friendly, peaceful and a great base from which visitors can take nature walks, go mountain-biking and enjoy wildlife watching.
The retreat also offers an indulgent and relaxing high tea experience, and is a short drive from neighbouring Sirromet Winery and other stunning destinations on the Redlands Coast.
Wongari Eco Retreat, Scenic Rim
Presenting a truly off-grid accommodation experience, Wongari Eco Retreat (with Lamington National Park at its doorstep) is a phone-reception-free, wifi-free, stress-free stay. The eco-focused, self-contained, sustainably centred retreat encourages guests to get all the way off the grid and get back to nature.
From Wongari Eco Retreat, visitors can take guided walks of Lamington National Park, and book a local masseuse to provide additional relaxation to the soundtrack of nature just outside your cabin.
Tommerup’s Dairy Farm, Scenic Rim
The Scenic Rim may be brimming with off-grid accommodation options, and yet Tommerup’s Dairy Farm is an easy choice for food-focused travellers. This sophisticated, rustic stay offers a choice between 1888-built stays, The Homestead and The Cottage – both serene, self-contained farm houses.
Meander around the farm and meet the resident animals, get your hands dirty helping out on the working farm (if you wish), visit the larder to pick-up delicious, farm-to-plate provisions (don’t leave without tasting the cheese), and retreat to your tranquil accommodation to rest and reconnect.
Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages, Scenic Rim
If that cottage core life has been calling your name, it’s time to head to the base of Mt Barney. At Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages, each of the five off-grid accommodation offerings are picture-perfect, surrounded by nature and offer all-inclusive, meal-and-accommodation packages.
Ease into the day by making use of your breakfast hamper before exploring the 40-acre property – or, perhaps drawing a bath and sitting back with a good book inside your cottage. Ideal for romantic getaways, Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages invites you to switch off and enjoy the proximity to the World Heritage-listed Mt Barney National Park.
Bradbury’s Beach Glamping, North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah, Redlands
Feel the relaxation begin as you hop aboard a ferry or barge from the mainland destined for North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah.
At Bradbury’s Beach Camping Grounds in Dunwich (Goompi), just one kilometre from the ferry terminal, you’ll find glamping tents with all the conveniences of a hotel room (but the feel of beachfront camping). On the grounds are six Eco Island Tents, which come complete with an ensuite and kitchenette. Part of Minjerribah Camping, the site is eco certified and operates respectfully with the island’s Indigenous heritage and culture.
Sanctuary by Sirromet, Redlands
Wallabies hop about, magpies warble and guests luxuriate among the wildlife and vineyards of Sanctuary by Sirromet in Mt Cotton. Winemakers Cottage, Merlot House and three beautifully dressed, self-contained pavilions present not only stylish stays, but a chance to slow down, unwind and watch the world go by.
Those who’d like to leave the wilderness for a moment of luxury can enjoy a wander through the lavender gardens, a trip to the cellar door and a cafe meal at the Tuscan Terrace.
Spicers Canopy, Scenic Rim
There’s glamping, and then there’s glamping. Spicers Canopy Luxury Tents sit pretty on a 5,000-acre private nature refuge looking out over a mountain range. You might be staying in luxury here, but with walking trails nearby, a relaxing hot tub, a communal lodge that features a fireplace and open-plan kitchen, this eco accommodation allows its guests to get off grid with just a step outside.
Sure, there’s a hot water bottle turn-down service, robes, and plush bedding, but who doesn’t love a little pampering after a day spent unwinding in nature?
Spicers Hidden Vale, Ipswich
Set on a staggering 12,000 acres of native bushland, Spicers Hidden Vale places its guests in the heart of one naturally scenic setting where serenity reigns supreme.
Sleep in cleverly restored cottages, a choice of suites, or off-grid cabins and spend your days relaxing, mountain-biking, hiking world-class trails, taking a four-wheel drive tour of the property, swimming in the infinity pool, enjoying a koala safari, watching the valley below, dining at the on-site restaurants, playing chess in the grand Homestead, or greeting the resident chickens who roam the gardens.
Nightfall, Scenic Rim
Immersive, quiet and luxurious, Nightfall sits beside the rainforest of Lamington National Park and the babbling waters of Christmas Creek. At Nightfall, architect-inspired, hand-built safari tents offer a breath of fresh air, serenity, home-cooked organic food and a touch of luxury.
Roll up the canvas walls of your safari tent to transform your accommodation into a mesh room, bringing the outdoors in, and birdwatch from your private off-grid stay. Each tent also comes complete with a rotating, in-tent fireplace to enhance the cosy experience.
Island camping
A sure-fire way to take a step back into nature is to pitch a tent on the shores of one of the pristine beaches within a short distance of Brisbane.
Moreton Island / Mulgumpin is favoured by avid campers as a natural playground. On the island, there are ten campgrounds to choose from, each with direct beach or lagoon access and a whole lot of room to explore in peace.
With its renowned surf beaches, lakes and headlands, North Stradbroke Island / Minjerribah makes for an idyllic off grid accommodation adventure. With eight campgrounds to choose from – two requiring four-wheel drives to access – it’s easy to go off grid on this picturesque island.
Bush, beach and blue skies are the order of the day on Bribie Island, where six nature-filled campgrounds abound. Wake up, unzip your tent’s front door and find yourself on a serene beach.
For further local campground ideas, check out Brisbane’s best camping spots, or discover where to go glamping when you visit Brisbane.
