O'reilly's Rainforest Retreat Large family and large company

Our most recent journey led us to a renowned guesthouse named O'Reillys, a resort celebrated by innkeepers across the New South Wales and Queensland region. Nestled near Brisbane, it sits atop a mountain, approximately 1000 meters high, within the heart of the "Rainforest".

The journey to this secluded paradise, located 1300 km north of Young and Wagga-Wagga, requires a two-day car ride. The final stretch of the journey takes us along a winding road that descends into the untouched, tropical wilderness of Lamington National Park. Despite the rain and our delayed arrival, the sight of civilization - lights, a parking lot, signs - at the end of this tunnel-like road was a welcome relief.

The O'Reillys, a prestigious family in the region, first arrived in the 1920s as adventurers. Through their relentless efforts and dedication, they have ascended to the pinnacle of personalized hospitality in Australia. Their family history is rich with remarkable events, including the rescue of the Stinson, a twin-engine plane that crashed in the virgin forest during the 1930s, a mission in which Mrs. O'Reillys played a crucial role.

While the guesthouse has evolved to offer more comfort and less adventure since those early days, the warmth of the welcome remains unchanged. Shane, the proprietor, greets us with a simplicity and kindness that immediately puts us at ease. Our spacious, comfortable room offers a view of Mount Lines and the landing track for the occasional helicopter. Here, activities are plentiful and well-organized, and the staff, while numerous and highly professional, maintain a personal touch.

Each of the O'Reillys holds a position of responsibility, like Michael, a man in his sixties who introduces guests to the local birdlife. His knowledge is extensive, and his passion is evident as he talks for hours about the birds. He is a kind and sensitive soul who always gives his best.

One afternoon, we joined a 7 km walk through Lamington National Park, led by our guide Murray and accompanied by a few other guesthouse visitors. We quickly struck up a friendship with an American couple, Gordon and Murry from San Francisco. Gordon's stories of Yosemite Park and his Harley Davidson sparked a desire in me to explore the east rather than the west. A passionate motorcyclist and big "truck" driver, Gordon, with his biker's beard and Harley T-shirt, embodies the spirit of adventure.

An antique grand piano, dating back to 1896, graces the living room. Yet, it remains untouched, its melodies unheard. As I close the doors behind me, I can’t resist the urge to trace my fingers over its keys. It would have been a fitting centerpiece in the expansive dining room. Oddly enough, the art of piano playing seems to be a fading tradition, and more often than not, these majestic instruments serve merely as decorative pieces, their tunes gradually falling out of harmony.

The chime of the bell signals tea time, a quaint affair accompanied by muffins. The gathering is intimate, with just four attendees. Despite the small turnout, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Stripped of the formality of a full-course meal, the grand debates give way to the comforting hum of activity from the kitchen. It’s a moment that lends itself to quiet writing and brief yet meaningful interactions with the ever-accommodating staff, who maintain their dedication to their work.

Among the notable figures in the company is Rob, the head chef, with whom I have scheduled a photo session in his spacious kitchen. His team includes the sous chef, the pastry chef who crafted a delectable coffee cake for tea time, and the ever-smiling Trudy and always amiable Michelle. These “little hands” are petite, vibrant, and gradually becoming my friends.

Trudy shares her experiences from her time at the Orpheus Island Bed and Breakfast Resort, nestled between Cairns and Townsville. She yearns for the coastal haven, its coral reefs, and the vibrant marine life. She mentions it’s up for sale, a dream too costly for her aspirations of owning a B&B. Michelle, on the other hand, traces her lineage back to Scandinavia, her ancestors having set foot in Australia ten generations ago.

Shane O’Reillys, the proprietor, has had the privilege of hosting numerous dignitaries, including the Prime Minister of Singapore. He also owns vineyards and a sophisticated restaurant in the Canungra Valley, known for its renowned Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, meticulously stored in a cellar at a steady 17 degrees. Elizabeth welcomes us to this secluded paradise, a testament to the Australian knack for creating wonders in the wilderness. The vineyard, though only four years old, is already bearing beautiful clusters of grapes. The wine produced here is exceptional, a product of careful nurturing.