Perched high on a private bushland escarpment, Licorice Cottage is a luxury island retreat offering breathtaking panoramic water views across Moreton Bay to Stradbroke, Peel and Lamb Islands. Elevated, secluded and surrounded by native trees and birdlife, the setting is peaceful, private and deeply restorative. The light-filled, open-plan living space is framed by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bay, creating a seamless connection between indoors and nature. The main bedroom features a spa bath positioned to take in spectacular water views, while the cosy open loft offers a second queen bed with equally stunning outlooks. Interiors are thoughtfully curated in a modern black-and-white palette, blending understated luxury with warmth and comfort, and complemented by a fireplace, spa, and a carefully selected collection of books and board games for unhurried evenings. Designed for guests who value privacy, calm and quality, Licorice Cottage is a place to truly switch off, slow down and revitalise. The cottage is located approximately 1.6 km from the ferry and close to the golf club and Corroboree Park, offering a balance of seclusion and convenience. Two bicycles and fishing rods are provided for guest use, and the island features well-regarded dining options, live music, boutique local shops and essential services. The property is family-friendly, with children’s books and board games, and a playground and water access just around the block. It is also pet-friendly, with a securely fenced yard and nearby off-leash areas. Guests enjoy exclusive use of the entire cottage, making it ideal for couples, families or discerning travellers seeking a refined and private island escape.

Travel and service are at the heart of how I live. Before settling in Australia in 2013 as a skilled migrant, I had the privilege of living in four different countries, which shaped my deep appreciation for cultures, people, and the small details that make a place feel like home. Hosting is a natural extension of that journey. For several years now, I’ve welcomed travellers from all walks of life, and I genuinely enjoy creating spaces where people can slow down, relax, and feel looked after. I know what makes a stay memorable—not just a comfortable house, but thoughtful touches, local insights, and the feeling that someone truly cares about your experience. I do my utmost to ensure every guest leaves with great memories of Licorice Cottage and Macleay Island, feeling refreshed, welcomed, and already planning their return.

Macleay Island offers something increasingly rare: genuine peace without isolation. Set in Queensland’s beautiful Moreton Bay, the island is relaxed, unhurried, and surrounded by sparkling bay waters, native bushland, and unforgettable sunsets that seem to slow time itself. What I enjoy most is the balance. Macleay feels like a true island escape, yet it’s remarkably accessible—just a short ferry or vehicle barge trip from Redland Bay, which is around 45 minutes from Brisbane CBD and about an hour from the Gold Coast. That ease of access makes it perfect for a restorative getaway without the stress of long travel. Island life here invites you to truly switch off. Days are naturally slower and richer: enjoying great local food, booking a massage, taking a leisurely round of golf, swimming, walking through bushland, or simply sitting back and watching the light change over the bay. With a welcoming community of over 2,000 permanent residents, the island supports a range of local cafés, shops, and services that make staying here both comfortable and authentic.