 In what appears to be a Snow-White wonderland, a cluster of shingled-roof cottages appear before us. At the rise of the hill, the lodge stands guard against the elements. From its stone chimney, smoke dances hypnotically into the evening sky. The smell of the wood fire mingles invitingly with the night air, the light softens and sounds of the forest take over… Magic is in the air.
Nestled within the World Heritage Lamington National Park, Binna Burra Mountain Lodge is truly a special pocket of paradise, hidden in Brisbane’s own backyard. Founded in 1933 by two conservationists, Binna Burra is one of Australia’s longest established Eco-resorts and hosts a range of diverse walking tracks, rope courses and even a flying fox in which the whole family can enjoy.
Blindfolded and walking through the rainforest with only a hand rope as guide, senses are bound to be crisp as sounds become more than sheer background noise. Touch, listen and smell your way through the ‘Senses’ trail. Designed specifically for the visually impaired, the entire trail is a network of rope hand guides, complete with Braille footnotes, making it the perfect bushwalk for first timers, kids or those just wanting an easy wander through the rainforest.
Another short yet spectacular walk is the trail to Bellbird Lookout. Now here’s a chunk of land direct from the Jurassic period. Ancient trees lay abandoned upon the forest floor. Trees so large, once felled by lumberjacks and couldn’t be removed, now rest beneath a thick blanket of intricate moss and lichens, adding to the ambiance of this fairytale rainforest.
From the lookout itself, gaze upon rolling green valleys to the distant sea. Surrounding cliffs hold captive the dense plantation of palms and ferns that dominate far below. The centerpiece, Egg Rock, erupted from the valley floor well over 21 million years ago... and has remained a talking point ever since!
During weekends and school holidays, the Binna Burra Echidna Club will ensure the kids are taken care of, allowing you the opportunity to try your hand at abseiling or some of the more challenging treks.
 Focusing on a child’s natural curiosity, the Echidna Club introduces flora and fauna whilst teaching the significance of the rainforest and various ecosystems. Enhancing self-appreciation, social skills, teamwork and even persistence, they take on the Discovery Forest, bush crafts and the mountain trails. Designed to help convey our understanding of natural cycles, the Discovery Forest is broken into five separate areas. Whilst the water cycle illustrates how poisons affect the environment, the Scratch and Sniff forest demonstrates how rainforest inhabitants rely on their senses to survive.
The clanging of a huge brass bell once owned by a steam locomotive and heard throughout the resort, informs you it’s food time. And with appetites enhanced by the crisp mountain air, the country-style hot and cold buffet is sure to please all tastes. Enjoy your meal from your vantage point perched upon the tip of the mountain, or order a pre-packed lunch and eat it wherever you desire.
Stars adorn the darkened sky. A reading of bush poetry by the roaring fire and you know it’s time for bed. Tallowwood heritage listed cabins, converted throughout the years to quaint abodes, allow you to sleep within the walls of history itself. Outside an ensemble of nocturnal musicians play a soothing lullaby, before you realise it, your thoughts have turned to dreams.
Accommodation packages range from $88 per person B&B. Conditions apply. All inclusive packages are available from $128 per person.
Junior Rangers
If the idea of the Echidna Club appeals to you and the kids, here are a few other venues that host similar programs.
Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island
On the world’s largest sand island, kids become Junior Eco Rangers. Here they’ll learn about bush tucker, study small ecosystems and food chains, try orienteering and take in beach walks to explore marine life. Phone (07) 4120 3333 for more information.
 Heron Island
Explore the Island’s unique coral cay and Great Barrier Reef environment. Heron Island’s Junior Rangers can collect up to 15 badges as they partake in turtle tagging, charting the night sky, snorkelling, reef walks and 11 more educational fun-filled activities. Phone 1800 737 678 for more information.
Thunderbird Park, Mt Tamborine
With a pick and shovel, Rainforest Rangers at Thunderbird Park have the opportunity to mine for Thundereggs in the world‘s largest Thunderegg mine. Kids can feed the animals in the wildlife sanctuary or test their skills on the obstacle course and orienteering. Phone (07) 5545 1468 for more information.
Brisbane Forest Park, The Gap
Here you’ll find a huge range of nature and wildlife activities on offer. Ever wanted to be a junior wildlife keeper or junior archaeologist? Perhaps you’d like to learn about Things That Bite and Sting or maybe the more cuddly option of Possum Magic and Wombats on Walk-about. Phone (07) 3300 4855 for more information.
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