“We love the community spirit. We love the vibrant art scene. We love the beautiful scenery, the dramatic different environments, the amazing birds and wildlife and just adore our wallabies” – Robyn Fortescue
Situated near Canungra and in the foothills of Tamborine Mountain sits Wallaby Ridge, a 23 acre property which boasts views of the Scenic Rim, a B&B, eco villas, a swimming pool, spa, vineyard and an abundance of wallabies who hop by daily.
John and Robyn Fortescue always loved the Scenic Rim and after getting married and (literally) building their own home on the Gold Coast, they realised what they really craved was the space and peace and quiet that the bush offered.
The Fortescue’s purchased the land in Canungra in 2000 and begun their ‘tree change’.
“Everyone wondered why we would ever want to leave the Gold Coast and build a B&B at the back of Tamborine Mountain, ‘Wongle-what?’ Wonglepong! But all were supportive and John’s dad, bless him, spent many hours of hard graft with us helping to build bluestone walls, bury irrigation pipe, erect vineyard fencing, all those jobs that normal people do in winter months or get contractors for. Not us!” Robyn said.
Robyn knew that creating something that reflected the things her and John loved about the Scenic Rim was the way to make Wallaby Ridge a success.
“We envisioned a B&B where people could stay, relax, enjoy the lovely views and have close access to bushwalking. It’s what John and I love to do, so why not open that up for others! When you love cooking, gardening and enjoy meeting new people, opening a B&B seemed like the perfect idea,” she said.
Since opening their doors Wallaby Ridge has been a popular Scenic Rim escape for many, hosting wedding parties, couples retreats, workshops and regional and international visitors.
John and Robyn are big art lovers and have woven collaborations with local Scenic Rim artists into the fabric of Wallaby Ridge, participating in the annual Open Studios program and commissioning creative artworks for the property. Robyn said the guesthouse is filled with ‘Quirky, and unusual timber furniture and antiques that I adore, giving Wallaby Ridge that unique touch’.
She said the cottages, or eco villas as they call them, have gone with a more modern theme to attract a different audience.
“Their outlook to the forest and own landscaped gardens create a different experience to the original guesthouse.”
Robyn’s favourite part of Wallaby Ridge is the stunning view.
“My favourite place is actually the veranda on the guest side of the house, where on a slow day we can have sundowners at sunset with nibbles and enjoy the view all to ourselves. If guests are looking to explore the area, we also recommend the Treetop Walk at O’Reilly’s. It’s a bit special with its history and its clever installation among the trees,” Robyn said.
To experience Wallaby Ridge for yourself book here.
