The Gold Coast is fun but the real magic lies in the hinterlands (the green behind the gold). We head up the mountains to Binna Burra Lodge to stay in a Safari Tent for two nights.
We lean in and stare intently at the tree trunk, our eyes adjusting to the dark. Our guide has squatted down in the damp foliage underfoot and with a small twig, she brushes it gently across the far edges of the cross-shaped spider’s nest we are all staring at. Apparently, if the spider within is hungry, she will sense the vibration, assume it’s a tasty bug and will reach out and snatch it quick as lightning, only to drag it back into her house of horrors.
Holding our breath in anticipation, she brushes the twig across ever so gently a second and third time.
Nothing happens.
I’m not sure if I’m glad or relieved. Actually, I’m relieved. I hate spiders and no amount of interesting facts will ever make me change my mind.
We are on the After Dark walking tour at Binna Burra Lodge and spiders aren’t the only thing we see on this particular night. Several snakes are spotted sleeping deep within a stone wall, found only by shining a spotlight between the stones. On a more fluffy and cute note, we also spot several pademelons and hares.
The After Dark walk isn’t strenuous and is surprisingly entertaining. Departing at 7:30 pm from the Binna Burra Tea House, it’s a great family-friendly activity that’s enthralling for all ages. All you need to bring is a torch, closed in shoes and a warm jacket. The temperature is a bit cooler up here in the Lamington National Park compared to the Gold Coast.
Enjoy the Gold Coast from afar in a Binna Burra Lodge Safari Tent
Speaking of the Gold Coast, we’ve been watching it from afar from up here in the mountains every evening. Sitting on the verandah of our Safari Tent, there are amazing views from each and every one of the tents.
Although there is a camping ground here, sometimes you just can’t be stuffed with the setting up, right? The Safari Tents are not decked out as fancy as some of the glamping tents you see on social media that cost as much as a high-end resort. But herein lies their charm. They are indeed affordable, coming in at around the cost of a cheap motel room. However, these tents have a hell of a lot more character than a cheap motel.
With solid wood supports, thick canvas walls, a metal roof, a wooden door and an inviting verandah with world-class views, the Safari Tents are more than comfortable. Inside, you’ll find a combination of beds depending on how many people you are sleeping. Our Safari Tent featured a set of bunks with a double on the bottom and a single on the top. Linen is not included so you will need to BYO pillows and sleeping bags. Alternatively, you can hire them as part of the deal if you wish.
The room has a light switch and two USB charging points so you can still charge phones and devices. Outside is a private firepit. Collecting firewood from the Lamington National Park is illegal so you can either BYO or purchase some from reception.
Birds make a regular appearance, including scrub turkeys. This means if you leave any food or bagged-up rubbish outside on the veranda it will be scattered all over the campground upon your return.
Here’s the lowdown on Binna Burra accommodation
Of course, if Safari Tents aren’t your thing, you can always level up the luxury at the Sky Lodge. Even more exciting than the Sky Lodge? Experience the soon-to-be-opened Tiny Wild Houses. On a budget or just enjoy the outdoors? Set up camp at Binna Burra Rainforest Campsite.
Binna Burra Campsite
The rainforest campsite at Binna Burra is found right on the doorstep of the Lamington National Park. Conveniently, it’s right near the entrance to many of the walking tracks. Suitable for those camping in tents, smaller caravans and campers, there are three different campsites to choose from.
The small caravan/vehicle campsites are suitable for those with rigs of 6.5 metres in length or smaller. All sites are level and well-defined with 15amp power. There’s even a Tesla EV charging station at the campgrounds.
Swag campsites and tent campsites are on either raised platforms or level ground, set within the beautiful forest. No vehicle access is available so be prepared to hump your tent/swag and gear in. The sites are well-defined and spaced nicely.
Regardless of which campsite you choose at Binna Burra, everyone has access to the amenities block. There are also shared fire pits, cooking shelters, BBQ hot plates and a communal fridge. No power is available at the swag and tent campsites at Binna Burra.
Binna Burra Safari Tents
Cascading valley views are a highlight of the safari tents as is the fact that you don’t actually have to erect the tent yourself. You’ll need to carry your sleeping gear in from the car parking area though. Don’t worry, it’s not far and the experience is worth it. Choose from three types of safari tents: compact, standard and suite style. The Safari Tents at Binna Burra include:
- USB charging points
- Inside light
- Outdoor table and chairs
- Shared or private fire pits
- Access to BBQ facilities
- BYO linen or add to your booking
Binna Burra Tiny Wild House
Soon to be opened to the public, we can’t wait to come back and try these out when they’re available. Sleep under the giants of Lamington in these fully self-contained tiny houses with modern appliances and furnishings. Who doesn’t love a tiny house in the mountain?
Binna Burra Sky Lodge
The Sky Lodges can be seen as you drive up the mountain before you even officially reach Binna Burra Lodge and if you haven’t booked into one of them, you will be mentally making a note to come back and do so. Spread across three levels, all of the apartments boast stunning views over the Lamington National Park. Choose from a studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom or three-bedroom apartment.
Here’s the lowdown on what to do at Binna Burra Lodge
Walking among nature and relaxing by your safari tent are both top things to do at Binna Burra Lodge. As that Lamington National park is located around 800 – 1100 metres above sea level, the hiking here is wonderful. You can expect rainforest-covered mountains, waterfalls, fern gullies, caves, lookouts and more.
Book into the After Dark Walk
The After Dark Walk is suitable for all ages and you will find yourself seeking pademelons, possums, gliders, owls and less cute critters such as spiders and snakes. BYO torch is recommended and you will need enclosed shoes. Come with an empty mind as you will learn plenty of new facts on this short walk and talk at Binna Burra Lodge.
Enjoy a night off at the Tea House Restaurant
Enjoy a night out for a two or three-course dinner at the Tea House Restaurant. It’s just a short walk from the Binna Burra Safari Tents. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Make sure to book in advance though, otherwise, you will miss out.
A more casual option is the Grooms Cottage Bushwalker’s Bar which offers up snacks, light meals, wine and tap beer.
Get your daily steps up on a hike from Binna Burra Lodge
Try the short Rainforest Circuit for a quick introduction to the subtropical rainforest of Lamington National Park. Looking for more? The Tullawallal Circuit boasts pockets of Antarctic beech on the summit, one of our remaining links with the ancient forests of Gondwana.
My favourite? The Caves Circuit! Hikers get to walk under and through two caves, spots koalas and traverse the track beside steep drop offs. Alternatively, the Gwongoorool Track descends steeply down to Gwongoorool Pool, part of the Coomera River. Tree frog lovers will rejoice as this river is an important habitat for them.
The walks depart not far from the Binna Burra Lodge Camping Ground and Safari Tents.
Play lawn games at Groom’s Cottage
On the lawn where the pademelons chill, guests can enjoy lawn games such as Quoits and Finska in front of Groom’s Cottage. While you’re there, chill out in the upstairs reading room at the cottage.
Getting to Binna Burra Lodge for a Safari Tent getaway
Reach the camping grounds at Binna Burra Lodge by making your way to Beechmont and taking Binna Burra Road all the way through to the end from there. It’s around 45 kilometres (one hour drive) from the Gold Coast and 110 kilometres (100 minute drive) from Brisbane City.
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Gold Coast family holiday resources
Best time to visit the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is really an all-year-round holiday destination. However, it gets pretty busy during the summer school holidays.
December to February sees tropical weather with more chance of rain. Many tout April and May as a great time to visit due to lower rainfall, but I personally find the ocean a bit too chilly at this time.
Where to stay
If staying in Burleigh Heads, Swell Resort is a fantastic option for families with roomy apartment-style offerings. The resort is set close to restaurants, only 100 metres from the beach. This is my top pick for the Gold Coast.
If staying in the Gold Coast Hinterlands, you can’t go past Binna Burra Lodge or O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Both offer a range of accommodations.
If you’re looking for a family resort with everything to occupy the kids, NRMA Treasure Island and Paradise Resort are top choices.
Those seeking luxury will love the Gold Coast Marriott or The Star.
Getting to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is located one hour south of Brisbane on the East Coast of Australia.
Both domestic and international flights service the Gold Coast Airport at Coolangatta. Find a great deal on Trip.com
The Gold Coast is connected by rail to Brisbane’s Roma Street and Central stations. There is also an AirTrain that runs a regular rail service taking around 90 minutes.
Getting around the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has an extensive bus service with over 60 routes within the city. If venturing to the Gold Coast Hinterlands, hiring a car is an excellent option if you don’t have your own.