48 Hours of Absolute Indulgence on the Gold Coast

If swanning poolside, bespoke massage treatments, designer shopping and champagne breakfasts sound like your kind of vacay, dust off the Louis luggage pronto 'cause we've got you covered.

BREAKFAST AT HYDE PARADISO RESTAURANT AND BAR

From its panoramic views of the Pacific, menus that change seasonally according to the best and freshest produce, and dishes that feature innovative touches of molecular gastronomy (we're not sure exactly how this works, but trust us, it tastes oh so fab!), you are in for a treat. But, if you really want that next level luxury, book out the private dining area for an exclusive experience all to yourselves. After all, this trip is all about treating yourself.

SHOPPING AT PACIFIC FAIR

Now that your palate has been pacified, it’s time to get down to business: shopping. Home to more designer labels than anywhere else in the country (you’re welcome), Pacific Fair’s glittering pools and tropical gardens might even have you thinking you’re sauntering down Rodeo Drive. Meanwhile, leave the blokes to entertain themselves on the green with a round at one of our sterling golf courses; and don’t worry, if the retail therapy runs a little over, the boys will no doubt be content sinking a few brews in the country club.  Once the necessities have been attended to, spritz the Chanel N°5, it’s time to dabble in a little more wining and dining (because, holidays).

LUNCH AT SHUCK RESTAURANT

Sink into a corner lounge, chilled Rosé in hand and freshly shucked au-naturale oysters en-route. Welcome to Shuck. Nestled on the famous Tedder Avenue dining strip, its semi-alfresco setting, coastal ambience and balmy breezes will make for the perfect long lunch… and enviable Insta Stories. Savour share plates with some of the best and freshest seafood on the Coast (don’t forget the local fave: signature crab lasagne), paired with a luxury wine list. If the vinos haven’t quite done the trick and you’re still feeling a little overwhelmed from your shopping expedition this morning, we know just how to unwind… and don’t worry boys, this includes you too.

PAMPER SESH AT ONE SPA

Let’s get things started with a customised massage, ‘coz you deserve all things #nextlevel. Escape at this full-service spa that offers up enough facials, massages and beauty services to have you looking and feeling like an all-the-rage Insta-celeb. Sip organic herbal tea while resetting your inner balance and focus on a little ‘me time’ – it’s been a busy day so far, after all. Continue the zen on a poolside lounge back at Versace, and when you’re feeling a little parched, just beckon the pool boy. But don’t get too comfy, the show stopper’s yet to come.

DINNER AT LITTLE TRUFFLE DINING ROOM AND BAR

Now don’t be put off by the lack of glam from its exterior, things are not as they seem. Step beyond the rustic double timber doors to be greeted with white tablecloths, classic chandeliers and a Parisian charm not found anywhere else on the Coast. Select from three striking dining rooms: we suggest heading straight to the top to a private dining room decked out in floor to ceiling velvet curtains and handmade vintage crystal glassware. You can even self-tailor the atmos with your own tunes. So glam! Tick off the essentials with a set three-course menu, or go all out with the six-course degustation. Hot tip: add the matching wines. It’ll be the best 50 bucks you’ll ever spend. Don’t stay up all night though, you won’t want to be too tired for what’s in store tomorrow.

DAY TWO

SKY HIGH BALLOONING

Rising before the sun may not be your ideal way to roll when on vacay, but trust us when we say you’re in for one epic ride… and if you’re still considering hitting ‘snooze’, surely the thought of a champagne brekkie will get you slipping out of your personalised silk pj’s and into your designer ensemble in no time. You can wake up properly when you’re soaring above the morning mist and the sun’s soft glow is bringing our little slice of paradise to life. Soak in 360-degree views across our sweeping coastline and flourishing hinterland before touching down amongst the green to be greeted with a glass of bubbles and an alfresco dining experience like no other.

LUXURY CAR HIRE

Public transport and sweaty taxis not really your style when it comes to getting ‘round town? We hear you. Aston Martin, Mustang, Ferrari and Porsche Boxster like music to your ears? Hire one of these babies for the day (or the week) and head for the hills! Cruise along ribbon-like roads through green pastures, past roadside fresh fruit stalls and make your way to our much loved, multi award-winning and locally owned winery, Sirromet Wines.

INDULGE AT SIRROMET WINES

Sign up for a private vineyard tour and tastings of Sirromet’s most highly awarded wines (not usually available for tastings) including their wild-yeast-fermented Le Sauvage range and Private Collection LM Assemblage. For those who can’t tell the difference between pinot gris and grigio (you’re not alone) that’s okay too – Sirromet’s cellar door will certainly do the trick. Cleanse the palate between tastings with a selection of dining options: the fine dining Restaurant Lurleen’s, or for a more casual setting either tuck into a Tuscan-inspired menu at the Tuscan Terrace or have a light lunch at the cellar door. Either way, you can’t go wrong kicking things off with the cheese and antipasto platter… #winning. Once the grapes have got you tickled pink and your chauffeur has arrived, cruise back to the coast for an afternoon of lazing poolside, seaside or harbour-side, take your pick!

SUNSET COCKTAILS AT RICK SHORES

Slip into that dress we know you’ve been saving and cruise on south (top down) for a sunset beachside stroll at our all-time local fave, Burleigh Heads. Dust off the sand and slide on the sandals for a bewitching coastal dining experience. Relax over a cocktail while the waves lap at the shore and the last surfers of the day roll around the Point. Tuck into twice cooked duck, fermented plum and puffed grains, and top it off with another delish cocktail (our pick: Rick’s martini #3). The star of the show is the panoramic view which by now would have transitioned into a glittering skyline. We have no doubt you’ll be giving #jealousmuch a good run this evening. Rightly so!

Now all you need to do is put this on repeat.