Pamper your way through July at Sanctuary Cove & win!
Pamper your way through July at Sanctuary Cove & win!
Winter. It’s about as welcome as a wet dog on a white sofa. But fear not, as Sanctuary Cove will be turning winter blues into winter woo-hoo-oos with ‘Glow at the Cove’, a month-long celebration of glowing skin, silky hair, and unapologetic self-care.
Throughout July, the Marine Village will transform into a premium pamper precinct, delivering seasonal pick-me-ups with a side of very fancy waterfront wow-factor. Think facials, massages, and head spa treatments that make you feel you circa 2005 (i.e., kid-free, mortgage-free, with your only worry being did I wear this Von Dutch cap with this Ed Hardey tee last weekend?”).
Elite Skin is leading the charge with a package so indulgent it should come with its own halo. Their Elite Top-to-Toe Glow Package pairs a customised Pro-Rejuvenate Facial with a full-body lymphatic massage and a restorative Medi-Pedi – translation, a three-step apology to your skin for everything winter puts it through. Guests can also book a complimentary Cosmetic Medicine Consultation with Cosmetic Nurse Paula Jones or a Medicare-billed Skin Cancer Check with Dr Tegan Buckingham, proving this glow-up is as much about skin health as it is about looking fabulous. At $330 for a package valued at $430, it’s a win for your skin – and your wallet.
Meanwhile, LuxBodi is offering 50% off all services throughout July, which is Cove speak for “FIX ME””. Whether someone’s kickstarting a wellness journey or simply craving a moment of peace (parents of school age kids, we’re looking at you), LuxBodi’s personalised treatments are designed to boost confidence, energy and overall happiness. With a maximum of two discounted services per client, it’s the perfect excuse to dip a toe – or an entire body – into something ravishingly rejuvenating.
For those who believe self-care should always include bubbles (the sparkling kind. As if we needed to clarify), Studio Eclettico is delivering the goods. Their Winter Skin, Scalp & Hair Ritual is a blissful blend of facial or massage, signature scalp treatment, luxe blow dry and a glass of bubbles to top it all off. At $140 for a package valued at $220, it’s literally begging to be booked.
And then there’s Jala Head Spa, a scalp-soothing haven that punches well above its weight. Their Glow Package includes a 45-minute mini head spa, hand and arm massage, hydration facial and professional styling. Valued at $410 but only setting you back $265, it’s a winter wellness essential – and a tidy little power move for the colder months.
As if the pampering wasn’t enough, every Glow at the Cove experience purchased throughout July puts guests in the running to win The Ultimate Glow at the Cove Escape, valued at over $2,000. The prize includes an overnight stay at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort with breakfast, a full suite of glow-inducing treatments from Elite Skin, LuxBodi, Studio Eclettico, and Jala Head Spa, plus a $200 Marine Village gift card and is the ultimate reminder that in winter, more is more.
Glow at the Cove isn’t just a winter event but a (very welcome) invitation to slow down, recharge and embrace the kind of wellness that feels luxurious rather than obligatory. Whether you’re chasing luminous skin, deep relaxation or simply a reason to escape the chaos for a bit, Sanctuary Cove has curated the dream winter sanctuary, AKA, the ultimate antidote to the mid-yeah meh.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
When: July 2026
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY SANCTUARY COVE
Warm up this winter next to an open fire.
Winter is officially here on the Gold Coast, and baby it’s cold outside. When the temperature drops for that hot minute you bet we’re making the most of soaking up the winter vibes, and nothing says winter like cosying up by the fireplace with a glass of red and some of the best food the Gold Coast has on offer. We’ve found the best Gold Coast restaurants with roaring fireplaces so you don’t have to try and flex your fire-making skills at home – you’re welcome.
Ok, this one is in the name. Still, the fine-looking InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is home to a restaurant rightly named The Fireplace, and yes, you guessed it: it does indeed have an impressive fireplace within the dining room that is also used for cooking. But don’t just go for the roaring embers; the menu features locally sourced cuisine, a 300-strong wine library and a delightful wine-matched degustation. This is serious date night material, maybe even staying overnight wouldn’t be the worst idea you’ve ever had! There’s even a second fireplace located in the foyer at the Verandah Restaurant and Bar that you can cosy on up to with one of their 50 whiskies.
Where: Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
This Broadbeach beauty brings the heat with its coastal vibes, bistro menu, and a roaring fire that’ll make you want to cancel your next appointment and settle in till spring. Order some Charred King Prawns, sip on a Golden Hour Sour cocktail, and let the flames (and the ambience) do the rest. Fire, food and feel-good vibes? Cora’s got it glowing on.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub has been serving hearty Irish meals for over 30 years, a testament to their popularity amongst tourists and locals alike. While our winters are just a tad warmer than Ireland’s – ok, a lot warmer – we are still thankful they decided to bestow upon us a crackling, open fireplace to gather around over a Guinness or three. Take full advantage of their fireplace and book your Christmas in July for the full Euro-winter effect. We promise a fireside meal at D’Arcy Arms will soften the blow of missing out on that Euro trip.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
It’s a Gold Coast institution for good reason, nestled in Mudgeeraba is the colourful ‘roadhouse’ style Mexican joint Hotel Panchos. It’s been lovingly restored to its former glory, holding onto the iconic 80’s character but dishing up a 2026-approved Mexican feast. We’ve pretty much never met a margarita we didn’t like, but something about them tastes even better when there’s a roaring fireplace and live music to keep you snug and beat the Hinterland chill.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba
It must be said, nothing else makes you feel as warm and fuzzy inside as a glass of wine next to an open fire, meaning The Wine Barrel in Mudgeeraba has seriously got its priorities in order. This tapas and wine bar is a family-owned and run hidden treasure, featuring some of the best tapas and share platters the Gold Coast has seen. So, grab a couple of mates and proceed to devour serious eats, next to the fireplace naturally…
Where: 8/59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
If you haven’t been to Pasture & Co have you really been to Currumbin Valley? Local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients are the heroes on Pasture & Co’s menu, and it quite literally caters to everyone (and we mean EVERYONE’s) dietary preferences and cravings. Wholefoods are a hero but if you know a thing or two about coffee, the organic fair-trade brew will blow even the biggest coffee snob away.
Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
If crackling fireplaces, cold mountain air and country pub charm are your thing, St Bernard’s Hotel is calling your name (probably from a vintage rotary phone). Perched on Tamborine Mountain, this cosy gem dishes up casual pub fare with a side of sweeping valley views, and yes, a toasty fireplace that’s perfect for warming your mitts between sips of mulled wine or a hearty red. Bonus: there’s a giant St Bernard dog on site. Need we say more?
Where: 101 Alpine Terrace, Tamborine Mountain
Dreaming of a winter dining spot that’s all about ambiance? Tweed River House has you covered. Nestled in a century-old riverside manor, this venue offers chandeliers, pressed metal ceilings and stunning dining room, complete with an impressive open fireplace to set the perfect scene. Savour plates that showcase the finest produce of the Tweed region. During the cooler months, enjoy lunch on the heated river verandah, but come dinner time, it’s all about cozying up by the fire. This is the perfect spot for a long lunch or an intimate dinner, making it a must-visit destination this winter!
Where: 131 River Street, South Murwillumbah NSW
The Paddock at Beechmont Estate is giving major cosy country manor energy, and the fireplace? Chef’s kiss. This chef-hatted gem serves up paddock-to-plate perfection, with seasonal dishes that spotlight the best of the Scenic Rim. Settle in by the fire with a glass of local red and let the mountain air, crackling logs and five-star flavours do the heavy lifting. It’s like a warm hug from the hinterland.
Where: 422 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove is turning up the heat this winter.
As temperatures dip and elsewhere people run for their brollies and beanies, the Gold Coast enters its most underrated season. The crowds dwindle, the days remain warm and bright, and waterfront afternoons drift into a calm, luminous glow. And if anyone wrote the book on how to do winter right, it’s Sanctuary Cove. Here, the cooler turn of the year is shaped by marina views, long lunches, luxurious surrounds, and the kind of relaxed sophistication that makes a vacay – or staycay – feel genuinely restorative.
At the centre of it all is InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, where the new Winter Escape package encourages guests to rethink the traditional cold-weather getaway. Available for stays until 31 August 2026 and priced from $349 per night, the experience combines luxurious accommodation with a curated collection of inclusions designed to help guests reconnect, unwind and savour the slower pace of a Gold Coast winter.
The package begins with a minimum two-night stay in the resort’s beautifully furnished rooms. Blending contemporary coastal styling with understated luxury, the resort strikes a rare balance between refined and relaxed, feeling polished without ever losing its warmth.
Each morning starts with a complimentary buffet breakfast for two at Cove Café, where the usual AM rush is replaced with something far more leisurely. Set within a light-filled conservatory-inspired space, the buffet includes everything from fresh pastries and seasonal fruit to international favourites, made-to-order omelettes, and Campos coffee.
After breakfast, it’s time to explore and with your $50 Sanctuary Cove Marine Village gift card in hand, drifting between boutique retailers, cafés and waterfront restaurants becomes even more irresistible. Located just moments from the resort, the Marine Village forms the vibrant heart of Sanctuary Cove and plays a lead role in the destination’s enduring five-star appeal.
For those keen to add a little activity to the itinerary, the Winter Escape package also includes a $20 discount on a round at The Palms Golf Course. Consistently ranked among Australia’s top golf courses, the championship layout delivers immaculate fairways and a world-class playing experience.
After all that shopping, golfing and waterside wandering, a spot of grazing and vino feels like the natural next step. As part of the package, guests can enjoy a complimentary grazing board and two glasses of wine at Verandah Restaurant & Bar. Framed by the resort’s grand lobby fireplace, the venue offers an intimate setting for pre-dinner nibbles and drinks, with local wines, craft beers and an impressive whisky collection spanning the globe.
And of course, no winter escape would be complete without a memorable dining moment. Choose between a $50 dining credit to enjoy at either Lagoon Beach Club or The Fireplace, two venues showcasing completely different sides of the resort’s dining personality.
If you’re keen on a lunch or later afternoon feed, Lagoon Beach Club overlooks the spectacular one-acre saltwater lagoon and captures the essence of a Gold Coast afternoon. Feast on fresh oysters, king prawn rolls, charcuterie boards and cocktails beneath the palms or under your poolside umbrella.
Or, if you’d prefer to use your credit towards dinner, The Fireplace is an award-winning critics and locals’ choice. Leaning into warm, wood-fired sophistication with premium local produce elevated by deep smoky flavours from the redgum wood-fired oven, it never fails to impress. Settle into the rustic surrounds and pair standout beef and seafood dishes with selections from the venue’s extensive wine collection.
Outside of the package, there are other indulgences to enjoy too, from sunrise walks along the marina and restorative yoga sessions to simply carving out uninterrupted time beside the lagoon. All in all, it’s less about rigid routines and more about rediscovering the luxury of slowing down.
With parking included and every detail carefully considered, Sanctuary Cove’s Winter Escape delivers the kind of getaway that feels both indulgent and relaxed. It’s a reminder that winter doesn’t always have to involve heavy coats and grey skies. Sometimes, the most memorable seasonal escapes are the ones in your own backyard, defined by lightness and luxury rather than layers and long-haul flights.
Book the Winter Escape package and find more information here.
Where: Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
When: Winter Escape package valid until 31 August
Words by Bianca Trathen
STORY SPONSORED BY INTERCONTINENTAL SANCTUARY COVE
Gravy, Yorkies and roast potatoes await.
There are two types of people in winter: those who spend Sundays being productive, and those elbow-deep in gravy by 2pm. We know exactly which camp we’re in. But honestly, no matter where you stand, it’s hard to deny the appeal of a hearty Sunday roast when the weather cools down- crispy potatoes, succulent slow-cooked meat and enough gravy to swim in.
From traditional English-style carveries to charcoal-roasted feasts and seafood buffets that somehow still make room for roast beef, get ready to loosen the belt buckle and settle in. Here’s where to find the best Sunday Roasts on the Coast.
Nothing says “Sunday well spent” quite like a plate loaded with roast meat and all the trimmings. Hope Island Tavern is dishing up a classic roast every Sunday from lunch through dinner for just $34.50pp, making it dangerously easy to stick around for a second helping for dinner…Hot tip: get in early because once the roast is gone, it’s gone!
Where: 87-97 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island
Okay, technically this one lands on a Saturday, but considering it involves roast dinners and a seafood buffet, we’re willing to overlook the technicalities. The Imperial’s Coastal Carvery & Catch Buffet goes hard across the board, serving up rotating roast selections with all the classic trimmings alongside chilled seafood, artisan breads, fresh salads, antipasti, gourmet cheeses and desserts – thank heavens for that second stomach. Available every Saturday from 5:30pm–9:30pm, it’s $99 per adult and $49.50 for kids aged 4–12. Stretchy pants are highly recommended.
Where: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
A roast cooked over charcoal? Your nan’s oven roast might have competition (if you’re reading this, nan, we’re just kidding). Expect the traditional Sunday roast turned up a notch, with succulent charcoal-roasted meat, seasonal sides and all your classic roast accompaniments. It’s smoky, caramelised and will require a post-lunch nap. Every Sunday from 12-2:45pm, $40 per person. We highly recommend booking, because everyone’s a bit obsessed with this one.
Where: 10 Welch Street, Southport
Grab your gang; there’s a Sunday spread waiting for y’all at the COAST fit for a king. Generous and designed to be shared: expect slow-roasted beef served with charred cabbage, carrots, golden Yorkshire puddings, wagyu fat garlic & rosemary potatoes, and rich COAST gravy worthy of drinking straight from the jug. Not that we would. Probably. If that doesn’t sound like a long, leisurely Sunday at its finest, we don’t know what does. $40pp.
Where: Ocean by Meriton, Level 1/86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
All-you-can-eat English carvery? No arm-twisting required- that’s a yes with our chest. Fig N Fox is carving up roast meats with all the trimmings, seasonal sides and as much rich gravy your Yorkshire-pudding-loving heart could desire. Go back for seconds, thirds or fourths. This is a judgment-free zone. Every Sunday, 12pm-8pm. Walk-ins welcome.
Where: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Guinness and a roast dinner because it just makes sense- like wine and cheese, or us and extra gravy. Finn McCool’s serves up traditional Irish Sunday roasts all day, every Sunday, best paired with a pint and zero places to be. Served all day for just $24pp.
Where: 39 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Slow-cooked meats, classic trimmings and a long, lazy lunch situation? Well, of course. Each week, they’ve got a rotating selection of premium meats, slow-cooked and served with all the glorious Sunday roast trimmings. Not a meat eater? They’ve got a wholesome vegan/vegetarian option because everyone deserves great potatoes. Available until sold out- aka the two words you don’t want to hear with a roast this good. Just $30pp and $12pp for kids under 12.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
At Harry’s Dining, Sunday roast has become something of a weekly ritual for locals, and after one visit, we completely understand why. As the sun goes down, the lighting softens, the fireplace glows, and the whole venue feels like one big warm hug. You could say it’s the perfect setting for a roast dinner.
Where: 100 Lakeview Boulevard, Mermaid Waters
Just three ingredients for the best damn roast of your life? Confirmed. Apparently, it’s all in the care, patience and technique. Thankfully, the patience part is coming from the kitchen’s end, because when it comes to mouth-watering roast dinners, we want that plate in front of us immediately. Can you blame us? Get ready for a beautifully tender, flavour-rich slow-roasted feast.
Where: Shop 1, 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
No need to save roast dinner for Sundays, folks, The Yorkie Rippa is here to give the people what they want (and quite frankly, what we need) five days a week. Yorkshire puddings on a Wednesday? How about a Friday? Whatever you want, darl! Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Where: Shop 8/28 Chairlift Ave, Nobby Beach
Why choose one good thing when you can have four: Sunday roast, live music, pints and $12 spritzes all day. Walk-ins are welcome, roasts kick off from midday, and you can get those spritzes all day long. This is starting to feel less like a lunch and more like an all-day social event with gravy. Count us in.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
To feel like you’ve truly been transported to an English countryside pub for your Sunday, there’s no place like Fox & Hounds Country Inn. Expect roast pork, beef or vegetarian nut roast with crispy potatoes, Yorkshire puddings and enough gravy to absolutely flood ya plate. Then there’s the Giant Yorkshire Pudding: a literal plate-sized Yorkie available from 4pm until sold out. Don’t risk missing out on this beauty- call to make a reservation.
Where: 7 Elevation Drive, Wongawallan
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
