A Serene Summer at Secrets on the Lake
Nestled in a tranquil pocket of rainforest overlooking the sparkling Lake Baroon, Secrets on the Lake is well-known as one of the most magical spots in the Sunshine Coast hinterland – perfect for couples, families, group holidays, weddings or even a delicious day trip, discovers Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer.
You know that feeling when you arrive somewhere and immediately start to relax? It’s a common experience for visitors to Secrets on the Lake – a gorgeous family-run resort built into the trees on the banks of Lake Baroon, where every quirky treehouse and bungalow has been crafted by hand, and every visitor is inspired to leave their worries behind as they immerse themselves in the fresh rainforest air and serenity of their surroundings. Less than 10 minutes’ drive from the quaint hinterland town of Montville, Secrets on the Lake is also a unique dining destination – and the secret is officially out about its treetop restaurant with breathtaking water views over Lake Baroon, Dining on the Deck. It’s no wonder that it is rated as the #1 restaurant in Montville on TripAdvisor and loved by locals and tourists alike for its fresh, thoughtful dishes, welcoming staff and awe-inspiring panoramas.
More than simply a place for breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner or high tea, Dining on the Deck is an experience with every element designed to surprise and delight – from the ingredients to the menu and delicious coffee, everything has been carefully chosen by longtime Secrets on the Lake owners Aldy and George Johnson for maximum enjoyment. Locals, visitors and bus groups are welcome at the restaurant year-round, and the resort also offers more intimate dining spaces such as The Hideaway and The Gallery – making it the perfect place to celebrate with friends and family for those special life occasions.
Aldy and George lovingly crafted and curated Secrets on the Lake more than 20 years ago, and they enjoy giving their day-tripping diners guided tours of the property and accommodation. They know that once you’ve laid eyes on a Secrets Treehouse with spa bath, stunning views, roaring fire and private deck, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll be compelled to stay awhile. A fair warning: once you book in at Secrets, it’s likely to become addictive, with past guests often becoming friends and returning again and again – for romantic getaways, special family holidays, milestone birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and all sorts of other special occasions, both big and small. Aldy recalls that the most recent return guests from just a few weeks ago had first visited in 1998 one year after Secrets had first opened.
“They landed here by helicopter some 26 years ago – and they’ve been coming back regularly ever since,” she said.
Secrets on the Lake is one of the few local accommodations to offer breakfast options plus a wide range of meal, picnic, BBQ and platter options for guests, along with in-room massages, where skilled therapists will help melt away all your stress and let you relax into the beautiful experience of your holiday. Speaking of memorable experiences, you can choose to do it all at Secrets, with bushwalking, canoeing, fishing, billiards, dining and picnicking right on your doorstep, plus local towns and attractions such as Montville, Maleny, Noosa National Park, Australia Zoo, Eumundi Markets, and Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve all just a short car trip away. Not that you’ll be inclined to leave this serene sanctuary!
If taking it easy is more your style, you’ll love relaxing on your deck, reading a book, listening to the birdsong, watching the wildlife, and retreating from the world to replenish your mind, body and spirit. Those looking for a very special hinterland wedding location will be thrilled to hear that the Secrets on the Lake team go above and beyond for weddings, ensuring that every special day flows seamlessly. With a range of stunning lakeside locations to choose from, plus impeccably-maintained grounds and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, they’re here to help you craft a perfect day that reflects and celebrates your love.
In December, the team deck the deck (and the halls) with twinkling lights and lush garlands for the festive season, making it a joyful place for family celebrations, corporate Christmas lunches, Friends-mas dinners, coach tours and more. Speaking of Christmas, Secrets on the Lake is offering a very merry Christmas Package for guests staying on Christmas Day, including platters of delicious food alongside a bottle of fine wine, so you can experience the perfect secluded festive celebration in the privacy of your treehouse – here’s to Christmas cheers!
It’s no secret that Secrets is the place to gather, celebrate and relax, whether it’s the upcoming Christmas and summer holidays, next year or beyond. It’s also perfect for a mid-week staycation to recharge the batteries! Book now to discover your own slice of paradise – because some places are simply too magical to keep hidden.
DINING ON THE DECK
Book your festive getaway or serene summer holiday at Secrets on the Lake or enjoy the stunning views and sumptuous food at Dining on the Deck from Tues-Sun, 8am-4pm. See the website for details including the full festive menu and all the fabulous details: www.secretsonthelake.com.au or call 5478 5888 to book.
