Guest reviews O’Reilly’S Rainforest Retreat

by Jslfamily Brisbane

Fantastic Time

We loved our first visit to O'Reilly's. There are so many hikes to do and loads of activities to keep the kids busy. The food and service from both the Restaurant and cafe was brilliant. The fly fox instructor was very clear with his instruction and the kids were able to have up to 3 goes. Reception staff were all so very helpful, contacting you if spots became available for the tours/activities. The room was very modern, with great views and the bed was so comfortable, exactly what you needed after a long day of activities and walking. My top tip is get the package deal it is totally worth every dollar!

by omiatravels Brisbane, Australia

Fun for the family

We visited O’Reillys with our family and another family, children aged 8-12. We booked the holiday package which was excellent value. We had breakfast and dinner each night included with the price and the food was just amazing (especially the lamb shoulder for 2! We had it twice). With the Covid restrictions the buffet breakfast was replaced by an order as much as you like, which was ok for the adults, but hard with 5 hungry children at the table. The highlight was the bird walk. An early start but very worth it. The birds were flying down to eat out of your hand and seeing a Satin bower bird treasure trove in the wild was amazing. The bush walks from here were also wonderful and there was a walk for every ability and age range. The flying fox is the other must do. The children walked away saying how fantastic it was and how they couldn’t wait to come back and do it again.

by ClareK248 Brisbane

Fabulous

My family and I have just returned from a four day three night stay here at O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat. This was my husband’s and my 5th visit to the Retreat and once again it was a dream. So relaxing with real time to get back to Nature This place is steeped in history and my own family’s history with my dad going there regularly in the 60’s We stayed in a valley view villa for the first time. Great view and great to have a kitchen to prepare some snacks and two bedrooms and bathrooms. Beds were very comfortable and bathrooms lovely and spacious. The fireplace in the Villa is great for the very chilly nights. We love the breakfasts and dinners in the dinning room. Whilst some may say old fashioned, I say look what they built using what was around at the time. Would recommend a package deal makes it so lovely and easy. There is definitely improvements that have been made in the overall food variety, quality and taste. Keep up the good work. The activities were great for all of us. My son especially loved the flying fox. He also enjoyed the Eco Rangers program and the early morning bird walk even if it was a bit chilly The staff are so lovely, knowledgeable happy to help no matter what your question maybe. Plus happy to chat with you when they have time. Some staff even remembered us from previous visits. I have read other reviews with people complaining about this and that, yes there are a few things that may appear old but remember this retreat is 94 years old and is in the middle of a rainforest, so wear and tear is bound to happen and with the size of the property hard to do everything. In my opinion they always seem to be working to make improvements. Plus it is so nice to go somewhere that has a soul and history and is still loved by the O’Reilly family and in turn focuses on you and your family.

by 216lesleyl Scarborough, Australia

Exceptional service & idyllic spot

The views out to the scenic rim are second to none & all set in a rainforest positioned at the top of a mountain. All the staff from the ones providing the activities to the wait staff were extremely friendly & accommodating. Our guided walk on the last day we were lucky enough to see 2 lyre birds. The food in the restaurant was fantastic & very generous portions. Hope to return someday soon.

by 855emmelineg

Beautiful scenery. Overpriced. Terrible food with no other option.

Stayed in a Mountain Villa at O'Reilly's for one night. Stunning view of the mountains and nice private balcony facing the view. Bed and pillows were uncomfortable and lumpy leading to poor quality sleep. The room was good otherwise, maybe missing some crockery/cutlery so it's possible to have snacks in the room (we cut our cheese with a teaspoon!) Was very disappointed with the food. Premium prices for very average food and lazy cooking. We ordered a garlic pizza for dinner, it arrived to the table cold and was literally minced garlic in uneven piles on pita bread. It's as if the chef has never tasted his own food! A pricey breakfast at $30 per person for a small plate with skimpy ingredients. Think eggs benny but with an English muffin and ham instead of sourdough and bacon. It seems that O'Reilly's is able to overcharge, and people pay the hefty price because there are no other options for food given the remoteness of the accomodation. Bringing your own breakfast is not even possible as there are no bowls or cutlery in the room for cereal, etc. 2 stars if not for the location and convenience for hiking.