Need to get away? Escape to Gilberton Outback Retreat to discover untouched Australian wilderness in understated luxury.
Perched above the Gilbert River, Gilberton Outback Retreat offers absolute privacy and understated indulgence in a tranquil bush setting. No phones, television or internet are available during your stay, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the bucolic scenery of the working cattle station.
Your experience is tailored entirely to your needs, and all activities, meals and tours are included in the nightly rate. Owners Rob and Lyn French will have you feeling like part of the family as their exclusive guests.
Outback Luxury
Gilberton Outback Retreat elevates the classic tin shed with its stylishly rustic, open-air lodgings.
Your accommodation is designed to capture the beauty of this rugged landscape, without compromising on comfort. Expect a king bed, outdoor bathtub and incredible panoramic views.
Soak in the views from your spacious rain shower – complete with handmade local soaps. Then don a fluffy bath robe and enjoy a glass of wine on your deck.
Your stay is enhanced with luxurious touches, including a welcome platter and bottle of champagne upon arrival. The retreat has a fully self-contained kitchen, where you can enjoy your breakfast hamper. Your mini-bar is complimentary, stocked with a selection of local tea and coffee, plus snacks and alcoholic beverages.
Dining at Gilberton Outback Retreat is an experience in and of itself, with a focus on paddock-to-plate meals made from locally-sourced ingredients.
Each night, enjoy sunset drinks and a wholesome country dinner with your hosts at the homestead. You can also opt to dine in the comfort of your retreat.

Gilberton Outback Retreat experiences
Fill your days at the retreat with a range of bespoke guided tours and experiences. You can embark on a 4WD buggy safari, or try your hand at fossicking for gold on a tour of the old Gilberton goldfields.
The Cultural Tour is a must. You’ll discover some of the area’s most well-preserved Indigenous rock art, protected by the French family for over 150 years.
Then, explore the Gilberton Nature Refuge with your hosts. Gilberton is home to an amazing diversity of flora and fauna, and its landscape of rugged hills and eucalyptus woodlands are perfect for exploring.
Activities are complimentary, flexible and completely catered to your mood and interests.
Getting there
To reach the retreat, you’ll travel to Queensland’s remote Etheridge Shire, around seven-hours’ drive from Cairns, and five from Townsville. For the ultimate star-treatment, guests can take a private scenic flight or helicopter charter from Townsville airport as part of the Fly and Stay package.
For more information, visit the Gilberton Outback Retreat website.
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