Quirky accommodation In Queensland Country

Twinstar Guesthouse and Observatory, Ballandean

Japanese astronomy enthusiasts Eiji and Naomi were growing tired of commuting from their home on the Gold Coast to Maidenwell to get their stargazing fix every weekend, so they decided to build their own observatory in the backyard of Twinstar Guesthouse & Observatory in Ballandean instead.

Now guests can sleep in comfort in one of the three bedsit rooms and join in the nightly sky tour, looking through their gigantic 46cm reflector telescope. Star-trail chasers are encouraged to set up their photography equipment in the backyard for the perfect time-lapse frame and two large binocular telescopes are also available for guests to use.

If you have an all-night stargazing bender, you can rest assured your continental breakfast will be waiting for you in your room when you wake. If you feel like some home cooking at night during your stay, Naomi will whip you up a bento or teriyaki fish.

The Cottage at Twisted Gum Wines, Ballandean

Okay, so it’s more cute than quirky, but the 1920s guest cottage at Twisted Gum Wines comes with a hearty dose of Australiana thanks to the Hills Hoist out back and Gus, the adorable border collie-cross-kelpie keeping watch at the front door.

Much of the three-bedroom home has been kept in its original condition, resurrected with care by owners Michelle and Tim, though all the mod cons have been provided for a comfortable stay. Think: Super comfy beds, a fully-equipped kitchen and plenty of books and board games.

Sleeping amongst the vines of a single-vineyard winery in Ballandean has its obvious perks, but it’s the tranquil outlook and beautiful homely feel of this cottage that will win you over long after the last drop of vino has been poured.

Visit in February to get hands-on when the picking season is in full swing. And while you can easily self-cater during your stay, a short amble down the driveway will place you at the Hidden Creek Winery Cafe for a relaxing long lunch.

Alure glamping tent, Stanthorpe

Just a short 10-minute drive out of Stanthorpe‘s main street you’ll find the Ritz of glamping tents.

Alure Stanthorpe’s tent accommodation provides more creature comforts than the average person’s home, so while you’re listening to the gentle flap of the canvas tent in the breeze, you can simultaneously be sitting in front of the eco fireplace, chandelier on above you, kicking back watching a DVD after a relaxing soak in the heated outdoor spa.

Then, after a hot shower (with L’Occitane products on tap), you can nuzzle into your four-poster bed and awake the next day to hot croissants, homemade granola, local berry compote and juice, and freshly baked bread.

Abbey Boutique Hotel, Warwick

Unless you’re planning on joining a convent, there are few times in your life when you’ll have the chance to sleep in an abbey – and we can assure you this converted manor has all the essence of the 1980s original, with a few more luxuries thrown in.

The adults-only heritage-listed boutique country manor hotel has 13 beautifully repurposed rooms with stained glass windows, chandeliers hanging over four-poster beds, and wood panel ceilings that nod to the original, while air conditioning, mini bar fridges and coffee machines meet your modern-day needs.

There’s little reason to leave the grounds, with tennis and outdoor chess, but jumping on one of the complimentary bikes and peddling into Warwick for an American-style smoked barbecue at Bluebird Kitchen is well worth it.

Diamondvale B&B Cottages, Stanthorpe

The gorgeous cluster of cottages and main lodge of Diamondvale B&B – sitting pretty along the banks of Quart Pot Creek just three minutes outside Stanthorpe – has country charm and hospitality in spades.

Opt for a romantic getaway in one of their one-bedroom cottages, a family escape in a two-bedroom cottage, a celebration with friends in the lodge, or hire the entire property for up to 20 guests.

The marshmallow on the stick is the Pioneer Hut, where you can sit around an open fire beside the creek, and truly get into the spirit with bocce, darts, a BBQ and music on hand.

For more tips on how to spend your days in the Granite Belt, check out this guide.

Barrel View Luxury Cabins, Ballandean