Lyola Pavilions in the Forest

The two architect-designed pavilions, 'Hide' and 'Seek', are perched high on Policeman's Spur, a ridge that overlooks the green patchwork of Conondale Valley. Slide open the floor-to-ceiling windows and smell the aroma of eucalyptus rising from the gum leaves in the surrounding forest; listen for the gurgle of your private creek with its cool swimming holes in a clearing in the forest below.

You're unlikely to meet anyone else here, apart from a goanna crackling through the bush or resting on a tree trunk, a koala, or one of the many beautiful, hinterland birds that call to one another among the trees.

Inside the pavilions there is one spacious room, and a separate spa bathroom. ?Seek? has a bright, energising ambience, decorated with quieter tones for contrast. It has a queen size bed, a wood burning heater, a day bed and two especially comfortable chairs in the lounge area. ?Hide? is more subdued, and painted in tranquil earthy tones. The bathroom features stone tiles and a sunken bath with views to the forest when you roll the wall away.

Host, Jane Kennedy, provides luxurious touches such as fragrant handmade soaps, ylang ylang bubble bath, silky rose-geranium scented moisturiser, lavender oil, candles, fluffy robes and gorgeous bed linen, cushions and throws. She also stocks the kitchens with essentials that take the hard work out of self catering. Complimentary wine, a cheese platter and provisions for a hearty breakfast are supplemented by a hot cob of bread delivered to the bread box each morning.

Lyola Pavilions near the picturesque villages of Montville and Maleny are just over one hour from Brisbane by car. Activities nearby include horse riding, abseiling, walking and mountain biking.