Spicers Hidden Vale

Delightful 2 night stay. Spicers did not put a foot wrong. Tastefully designed property. Lots of history. We did not leave the grounds as found enough to do. Enjoyed the pool and spa to own briefly each day as well as the bath on our private deck overlooking bush. Loved breakfast and 3 course dinner included in our package. We returned for dinner again the second night because it was delightful. Convenient ability to drop bags at private house before parking.

Went for Mother’s Day breakfast at the Barn, food was beautiful the setting was stunning but the staff are so unfriendly that it makes the atmosphere very uncomfortable. Their attitude was one of being inconvenienced by customers they don’t smile they’re not at all welcoming so probably won’t bother going back also the paper packaged wooden cutlery is very low class and ineffective for its purpose.

The homestead which houses the reception, bar and dining area is stunning. A beautiful free standing stone fireplace is surrounded by comfy sofas to snuggle into. The staff are all friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming. The food was well presented and delicious with care taken to meet dietary needs. Great activity options, we did archery, scotch tasting and the market garden tour.

We were in Australia for 3 weeks from the U.S. The koala safari at Spicers Hidden Vale was a highlight of our trip! Seeing koalas (and their joeys!) in their own habitat was thrilling. And our guide Kristen (sp?) was so friendly and knowledgeable. We'd highly recommend this to anyone visiting the Brisbane area!.

The pool and pool area could have been better. Vasp nests in two of the sunbeds.

Some things are wonderful but there are a few issues. First the positives - the rooms (really little cottages) are great - well thought out with large bedroom, very comfortable beds and quality bedding, a comfortable lounge room, good size bathroom and separate toilet and outside private deck. Breakfasts are very good. Only minor issue is a very small bar fridge. 2nd - the problems. Spicers is one of the few 5-star accommodation places in Australia that require full payment on booking. (OK - if they can get away with that, fair enough). I booked and paid 7 months ahead. So, I was surprised to suddenly find a $120 charge on my credit card a week or two before arriving without any explanation. On ringing, I was told room costs had risen since I booked despite what I thought was a contract. I then emailed the manger. The charge was reversed with apologies but why it happened in the first place is a mystery. Other issues were associated with the restaurant. Due to its location, we virtually had to eat there every night of our stay. The food is excellent -and hard to fault. But the only option is a 3-courses meal. My wife is not a big eater and only wanted a few scoops of ice cream on our 2nd night for her third course. Only 3 desserts were offered, and all were "heavy" (cake based) . Although we were charged for the full courses, she was charged $6 extra for her non menu ice cream. Again, this was reversed on a query but should not have happened in a 5 star establishment. Also, at lunch time there is also only a set number of courses - no availability for a just a light meal or a snack other than a cheese board. Little things like this could be considered for a more enjoyable stay.