The hype
Couples universally adore the privacy and the spa baths, but foodies are often let down by the limited restaurant hours.
Pethers Rainforest Retreat
$190-240/ night
Book this if You want to disappear into a private treehouse with a spa bath, a fireplace, and zero chance of hearing a child scream.
Why People Love It
- Private treehouses with 5-meter floor-to-ceiling rainforest views
- Double spa baths situated directly next to the king beds
- Breakfast hampers delivered silently to your door every morning
Quick Take: It’s a romantic glass box in the jungle where the only nightlife is a possum running across your roof.
Reviewed by @katherine_galvin: I stayed here for a quick reset and it was magic. The rainforest surrounds the whole house, and that spa bath is huge. It’s adults-only, so the peace is guaranteed. If you need to disconnect without a long flight, this is the spot.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'continental breakfast' is a basket left at your door—charming for privacy, but disappointing if you expected a hot, made-to-order meal.
- You are on a honeymoon or anniversary trip
- You love falling asleep to the sound of rain and wildlife
- You want total privacy (you can check in and barely see a soul)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Daily service is unobtrusive; they respect the 'do not disturb' vibe.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, though grout can sometimes show age in the humid environment.
- Maintenance: Solid, though some guests report worn timber on decks or stiff sliding doors.
- Linens & towels: Clean and adequate, though some reviews note towels could be fluffier.
- Odors & scents: Fresh rainforest air, occasionally damp/musty after heavy rains.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Possums running across the metal roof (sounds like heavy footsteps)
- Rainforest birds at dawn
- Heavy rain on the canopy
Before you book
Good to know
- Reception closes at 5pm; you must arrange late check-in in advance.
- Mobile reception is patchy; rely on wifi calling if needed.
- You need a car; taxis/Ubers are virtually non-existent on the mountain after dark.
What to pack
- Slip-on shoes for the balcony
- A warm jacket (mountain temps drop significantly at night)
- Downloaded movies (in case the wifi struggles with streaming)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Treehouse 10 for maximum seclusion at the end of the path
- Treehouse 1 or 2 if you want to avoid the steep walk back from dinner
Rooms to avoid
- Treehouse 5 if you hate walking uphill (guests call it 'the cardio room')
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“We are celebrating a special occasion and would love a treehouse with the most private outlook possible, ideally further from the main lodge if availability permits.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really no restaurant Sunday to Wednesday?
Correct. The Pethers Rainforest Restaurant only opens Thu-Sat. You will need to drive into town (5 mins) for dinner on other nights.
Can I bring my baby?
No. The treehouses are strictly 18+. You can only bring children if you rent the separate 4-bedroom Pethers House.
Is the spa bath big enough for two?
Yes, it is a genuine double spa bath designed for couples, often with a view of the trees.
How private are the treehouses?
Extremely. They are spaced out and angled so you can leave the curtains open without being seen by neighbors.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, all treehouses have reverse-cycle air conditioning and a gas fireplace for winter.
Do I need a 4WD to get there?
No, the road is paved, but the driveway is steep. Standard cars are fine.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Order the 'Romance Package' beforehand if you want rose petals and candles set up—they actually do a great job of this.
- ✨
The avocado orchard on the property is a hidden gem for a quiet morning walk.
- ✨
Ask for extra fire starters at reception if you plan to use the fireplace heavily in winter.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'wild dogs' you might hear howling are dingoes; they are native and usually harmless if left alone.
💡The floor outside the bathroom can be incredibly slippery when waxed—watch your step.
💡The 'continental breakfast' is delivered in a basket to your door, meaning no hot eggs or bacon unless you drive into town.
💡You might get a visit from a brush turkey named 'Jeff' on your balcony.
💡The walk to the furthest treehouses is unlit and very dark at night—use your phone flashlight.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Pethers Rainforest Retreat is located and what's nearby.