Queensland retreat surrounded by nature hits market
The home is secluded but also well connected to the neaby towns and school catchments.

Property constructed by local boat builder in the '80s hits the market

Nestled high on 635 Ilkley Road, Ilkley, this rural estate spans six hectares of tranquil bushland, creating a private retreat surrounded by some of Queensland’s most stunning nature.

Currently listed and accepting offers over $1.59 million, there are endless opportunities to transform the estate into accommodation or an events venue.

“This type of property is incredibly rare given its combination of large acreage only 15 minutes from Mooloolaba beach, its sensational hinterland views and the quirky lodge-style home,” said Oscar Noble, executive sales at Noble Estate.

Screen_Shot_2025-09-19_at_8.12.32_am_br2bsf
The detailed timber work showcases the talents of the builder who completed the design in the 80s.

The listing describes the home as a “mini-American hunting lodge, part classic Queenslander,” as it embraces both comfort and architectural heritage with vaulted ceilings, coloured glass windows, French doors, and a generous supply of windows to invite in the light and panorama of the surrounding natural habitat. Designed in 1982 with western red cedar and double brick, it was the winner of the Home Beautiful Award the year after it was completed and was hand-built by a local boat builder.

Screen_Shot_2025-09-15_at_11.40.28_am_qbwj3s
The cosy interiors of the main house provide residents with a retreat-like atrmosphere.

The main residence comprises three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The living areas are primed for entertaining with an open fireplace and built-in bar. Outside, there are two generous hardwood decks for enjoying a morning coffee, along with an al fresco shower to embrace the natural atmosphere.

Screen_Shot_2025-09-15_at_11.40.04_am_vecppt
Outdoor showers with sweeping views of the property are just one of the drawcards.

There are three parking spaces, and a potential second elevated house pad offers the perfect site for a B&B cottage.

“The house and the studio could be rented out separately, which would help to increase the return of the property as an investment. If you did want to make the most of the one-of-a-kind nature of the home, it would be a real hit on Airbnb. I would expect guests to be attracted to the unique features, such as the outdoor shower with forest views, loft bedroom, and brick fireplace,” said Noble.

“Given it is zoned as general Rural Lands you could also build up to eight holiday cabins for eco-based tourism, which you could easily fit across the 15 acres [6.1 hectares]. Perhaps some up the top to capture the panoramic view and some down lower on the dam and in the rainforest gullies.”

  • Related: Adaptive reuse potential for former bank on edge of the Blue Mountains
  • Related: Five coastal regional shopping centres for sale right now
  • Related: Two iconic Sunshine Coast farmers' markets up for grabs
Screen_Shot_2025-09-19_at_8.12.43_am_ihhgle
With the appeal of the location, there is ample opportunity to add rental units to the site and create income.

All-weather access roads lead through the property to a huge dam, and there are kilometres of former horse trails. Established fruit trees and edible gardens with mango, guava, fig, banana, starfruit, mulberries, coffee, and more are currently growing.

Ilkley Road is secluded, but also well-connected to Forest Glen, which is just a five-minute drive away. Located in the sought-after Chevallum school catchment and close to Brisbane Grammar, Mathew Flinders Anglican College, and Montessori International College, it’s an ideal spot for families with kids.