20 Sep 2021
Words Viva Hyde Gold Coast Bulletin

Renowned eco-tourism resort in Lamington National Park hits the market

Expressions of interest are sought for the sale of Nightfall Wilderness Camp, which has welcomed celebrity guests including sisters Lisa and Jessica Origliasso of The Veronicas; actress Isabel Lucas; and travel TV presenter Sofie Formica.

Set on 257 acres of rainforest on the edge of the Lamington National Park with 1.4km of creek frontage, the glamping resort comprises five custom-designed canvas safari tents.

At $935 per night, the tariff is more than many of the region’s top hotels and the resort is fully booked until July 2022 by couples seeking to re-connect with nature while overseas holidays remain in doubt.

Resort Brokers agent Greg James, who is marketing the property with colleague Steve Campbell, said the glamping tents were designed and built in 2012 by owner, Steve Ross.

“Their labour of love has produced a one-of-a-kind business which delivers an unforgettable experience to lucky guests who can actually secure a booking.”

The camp is managed by Mr Ross and his partner, Jaide Adermann, and the couple also prepare organic meals for guests with all food and drinks included in accommodation rates for a minimum two-night stay.

The Veronicas’ Lisa got engaged to actor Logan Huffman during her visit to Nightfall, with the newlyweds returning to the unique destination to celebrate their honeymoon in 2019.

She spoke glowingly of the camp in posts shared with her social media followers.

“Nightfall has been my favourite little secret, but somewhere this special needs to be shared and experienced,” she said.

Sister Jessica said the camp was, “the most transformational experience” and praised the hosts’ wholesome cooking.

Council approval for an additional three tents has been granted, providing potential for new owners to grow the business which operates only on weekends and special occasions.

Projected turnover for 2021/22 is $484,000, with the camp currently operating at around 33 per cent of potential occupancy.

“It is the embodiment of majestic bliss. A hand-crafted glamping retreat nestled in the most tranquil and private part of the hinterlands.”

Mr Ross said eco-tourism had boomed in the years since he’d established Nightfall, with guests visiting from all over the world pre-Covid-19.

He is now planning retirement, but said living immersed in nature and meeting great people had been perks of the business.

Mr James said: “I am getting inquiries from all different types of markets from players who want a point of difference and to be able to enjoy the hospitality side of a venture that is not just a simple check in, check out business, but want to provide a high-end service for guests among the wonders of nature.”

Each 62sq m canvas tent is luxuriously appointed with a fireplace, open rain shower, twin bathtubs and a king size bed, with guests able to roll up the sides of the tent by day for an immersive experience in pristine natural surrounds.

The owners live in one of the safari tents, with the remaining four reserved for guests.

Expresions of interest for the property at 3009 Christmas Creek Rd, Lamington close on October 29.