A luxurious treehouse retreat hidden high in the rainforest has taken out the top spot on Visit Sunshine Coast’s (VSC) Instagram page for 2024.
A reel showcasing the Sunshine Coast Hinterland property, Secrets on the Lake, has amassed more than 386,000 views, 9200 likes, 7100 sends and 4800 saves since it was posted in early May 2024.
The video – shot and produced in-house by VSC’s Social & Content Coordinator Annabel Robertson – takes viewers on a visual journey of the Montville estate, from the timber-clad treehouses to the sweeping views of the lake below.
This is the first time an accommodation provider has taken out the top spot on the VSC Instagram page for the year, and VSC chief executive officer Matt Stoeckel said he was surprised it took so long.
“The Sunshine Coast’s accommodation is unlike anywhere else in Queensland,” he said.
“Here you can take your pick of luxurious, boutique accommodation, from Hinterland treehouses such as this to glamping tents and even restored heritage train carriages.
“With our Instagram audience increasingly looking to explore the hidden gems of the Sunshine Coast, Secrets on the Lake is just the thing they’re looking for in a Sunshine Coast escape.”
Secrets on the Lake owner Aldy Johnston said she and her husband George have a spring in their step since hearing the news.
“We were incredibly delighted, proud and humbled. It is a testimony to our life’s work,” Ms Johnston said of the accolade.
“For over 30 years now we have constantly developed, maintained and finessed our beautiful property into what has become an iconic Sunshine Coast destination for visitors across the globe.
“When you look at George’s magnificent gardens it’s hard to believe that it started out with red reclaimed dirt, built up from the excavations of the lake many years ago.
“Secrets is nestled in the most magnificent rainforest location right on the shores of Lake Baroon, with magical treehouses, weddings, art gallery, and Dining on the Deck restaurant all basking in this extraordinary view. We invite visitors from near and far to come and see what’s possible when you sprinkle a little magic, a lot of hard work, and some creative determination… dreams really can come true.”
Another stand-out from VSC’s Instagram this year was Booloumba Creek in Conondale National Park, which featured not once, but three times, in the top 10.
This stunning turquoise waterhole, surrounded by lush rainforest, is known for its pebbled riverbed and waters so clear it almost has to be seen to be believed.
Other notable mentions were a reel highlighting dog-friendly spots on the Sunshine Coast, and a mob of graceful kangaroos bounding into the water at sunset at Noosa’s Lake Cootharaba.
For more Sunshine Coast inspiration, follow Visit Sunshine Coast on Instagram @VisitSunshineCoast, instagram.com/visitsunshinecoast.
