Lillydale Hostfarm Queensland Australia

The warmth of country hospitality is a welcome alternative for people wanting to escape busy city and coastal lifestyles. When guests arrive at Lillydale Hostfarm in the picturesque foothills of Mt Barney, Rathdowney, they quickly settle into the gentle pace of rural life.

Hosts Doug and Pam Hardgrave welcome everyone with a friendliness more common among family members. Doug’s family has been farming in the Rathdowney area, 90 minutes from the Gold Coast, for four generations and it was at Lillydale that he and Pam settled after their marriage.

Today they share their gracious Queenslander and 290 hectare cattle property, with up to ten guests who are accommodated in three modern self-contained units, although everyone is welcome to become part of the household. Guests can choose to have all meals catered in the homestead, or they may wish to prepare their meals in their units.

In what is arguably one of South East Queensland’s most picturesque rural settings, visitors are invited to take part in the daily life on the farm. Doug takes a special interest in sharing his love of rural life with children, who often arrive thinking that milk only comes from a carton and eggs from a supermarket. He introduces them to the farm animals and enlists their help at feeding time and to collect the eggs.

Lillydale’s horses have played a part in Hardgrave family life and riding can be arranged by appointment. Adults are welcome to relax by the pool or picturesque dam, try abseiling or have a massage, or give a hand with farm work- basic farm maintenance or seasonal cattle work. Put a canoe on the dam, take a nature trek to soak up the ambience of your surroundings, or do a spot of fishing.

Accommodation Options

Harper Room

Maroon Room

Barney Room

Website: www.lillydale.com.au