“Our part of the Scenic Rim feels relatively untouched. There are still small country towns dotted around with that old school charm, all within a short distance from the hustle and bustle” – Alex Cooper
Located just outside the charming town of Boonah in the Scenic Rim, and nestled amongst rolling hills with spectacular views of World Heritage listed national parks, is where you’ll find Ketchup’s Bank Glamping – South East Queensland’s first luxury couples’ private glamping retreat.
Set on the edge of 100 acres of private eucalypt forest and only 90 minutes from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this award-winning, secluded Australian bush camping experience is one of a kind.
Run by husband and wife duo Alex and Anna Cooper, the eco-retreat is based on the concept of providing ‘the glamour of luxury accommodation with the romance of camping under the stars’ in an ecologically-friendly way. After leaving their ‘city life’ three years ago, Alex and Anna put their heart and soul into Ketchup’s Bank Glamping making sure all aspects of the business were carefully considered to achieve this perfect mix of glamour, camping and minimal environmental impact. The result is a unique, nature-based accommodation experience.
With a maximum of only four guests at any one time across the 100 acre property, Ketchup’s Bank Glamping offers the definition of a luxury bush retreat.
“We operate completely off the grid and feel such a sense of accomplishment when teaching our guests about where power and water come from,” says Alex.
“When our guests realise that living sustainably doesn’t mean you sacrifice WIFI or hot showers, I feel we are doing some good in our lives.”
Named after an infamous track which caused problems for the early settlers of the area and their livestock due to its steepness, the property is full of wildlife, including three varieties of wallabies, goannas, wedge tailed eagles, koalas, king parrots and much more. All decisions made on the grounds are influenced by the impact it will have on the surrounding environment and wildlife.
“Here we provide the surroundings, experiences and service guests cannot get at home. The combination of spectacular views, campfires, peace, comfort, hospitality and wildlife all contribute to the overwhelmingly unique experience,” says Alex.
Choose from the Knapps Luxury Eco-Tent which is positioned with some of the best views of the Scenic Rim, stretching through to Mount Lindesay and into New South Wales, or Ironbark Eco-Tent, which is tucked away within the protective native Eucalyptus forest. Here, friendly wildlife makes frequent visits to the site.
“Those who need a couple of nights to escape and recharge the batteries with their partner will find that here,” says Alex.
“Many problems get solved on a starry night sitting around a campfire.”
Local tips:
Alex says you can’t beat the Overflow Estate for a lazy Sunday lunch, but also recommends a ‘good old pub lunch at the Dugandon Hotel (our local)’.
He and Anna’s favourite destination drive is the Lower Portals in Mt Barney National Park.
For more information on Ketchup’s Bank Glamping and to book your luxury escape, click here.
