Spicers Tamarind Retreat

Spicers Tamarind Retreat is a luxury rainforest stay in the Sunshine Coast hinterland at Maleny, and it takes dogs through a specific Pooch Package rather than a blanket pet policy. That detail matters: the dog-friendly option is tied to one villa type, so book the right room or the dog cannot come.

The dog setup

The Pooch Package is available only in the Orchard Villa, a private two-bedroom residence. Dogs up to 25kg are permitted, generally one or two per stay, and an additional nightly charge per dog applies on top of the room rate, so confirm the current figure with reservations. The package includes a plush dog bed and a dog bowl in the villa, and you will sign a pet waiver or terms agreement at check-in. Book through Spicers reservations (13 77 42) rather than assuming the online booking flow offers the package.

The rules on the grounds

Dogs stay on a lead whenever they are outside the villa on the retreat grounds, are not permitted in The Tamarind restaurant or the pool areas, and must stay off the indoor furniture and soft furnishings. Plan a villa-based dinner or arrange a sitter if you want to eat at the restaurant.

The vibe

The retreat sits in a rainforest and garden setting with a spa and a well-regarded restaurant, and daily a la carte breakfast is part of the package. It suits couples or a small group after a polished hinterland escape who want the dog along and can live with the leash and no-go zones.

Getting there and parking

The retreat is on Maleny's hinterland ridge, about 30 minutes inland from the coast via Nambour or Palmwoods. Parking is at the villas, so unloading a dog and luggage is straightforward.

While you're out there

The Maleny Trail along Obi Obi Creek is the on-lead walk, with platypus possible early. Whit N Whimsy handles coffee in the village, and the sister property Spicers Clovelly Estate or Jacaranda Cottages at Witta are the other pet-friendly hinterland bases if the Orchard Villa is taken.

More bases are on the Queensland pet friendly stays guide and the Maleny destination page.