As the festive season approaches, Salter Brothers Hospitality presents an irresistible collection of luxury culinary events designed to celebrate Christmas in style.
From immersive cooking schools in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to decadent long lunches in the Hunter Valley and indulgent multi-day escapes in the Scenic Rim, these experiences promise gourmet excellence wrapped in holiday magic - and there are still tickets available.
A Sunshine Coast Christmas: Learn, Feast and Celebrate
Tucked among the rainforest-fringed hills of Maleny, Spicers Tamarind Retreat sets the scene for an unforgettable festive masterclass. The much-loved Tamarind Cooking School invites guests to don an apron and dive into the flavours of the season during its hands-on Christmas Feast sessions.
Guided by Chef Tommy Kennedy, participants will learn to craft an elegant three-course Christmas lunch designed for sharing – balancing classic technique with fresh, modern flair. Taking place on December 6 and 8, the class blends expert instruction with Tamarind’s serene setting, offering a truly elevated culinary experience for both seasoned cooks and enthusiastic beginners.
Just over the Great Dividing Range, the Scenic Rim offers one of Australia’s most luxurious Christmas escapes atop a mountain at Spicers Peak Lodge. This exclusive two-night all-inclusive experience is the pinnacle of festive indulgence, pairing breathtaking views with curated dining at every turn.
Guests can expect premium wines and spirits, bespoke Christmas menus throughout their stay and, on Christmas Day itself, an indulgent five-course lunch showcasing the region’s finest seasonal produce. It’s a rare opportunity to celebrate in complete serenity, wrapped in warm hospitality and the natural majesty of the plateau.
Brisbane’s inner-city icon, Spicers Balfour Hotel, brings a touch of refined urban festivity to the calendar with a trio of beautifully curated events. On December 20, the elegant Festive High Tea offers an afternoon of sparkling treats and handcrafted sweets served within the hotel’s chic dining spaces.
On Boxing Day, Balfour becomes one of the few venues in Brisbane throwing open its doors, hosting a relaxed brunch from morning until late morning - perfect for those wishing to continue the celebrations. As the year draws to a close, the hotel transforms once again for its sophisticated New Year’s Eve dinner, offering a stylish way to toast to 2026.
Across the Hinterland, the celebrations continue with a selection of New Year’s Eve dinners at Spicers’ signature Queensland retreats. Spicers Tamarind Retreat in Maleny, Spicers Clovelly Estate in Montville and Spicers Hidden Vale in Grandchester each host their own decadent final feast of the year. From estate-grown produce to award-winning regional cuisine, each dinner is crafted to capture the unique character and culinary philosophy of its venue.
A Hunter Valley and Blue Mountains Christmas in NSW
South of the border, the Hunter Valley - known for its rolling vineyards and long-lunch traditions - offers two beautiful Christmas Day dining experiences. At Spicers Guesthouse, the acclaimed éRemo restaurant presents an Italian-inspired Christmas lunch, weaving beloved seasonal ingredients with the bold coastal flavours of modern Italian cuisine.
Nearby at Spicers Vineyard Estate, Restaurant Botanica’s Christmas Day lunch pairs refined regional dishes with stunning views across the vines, creating a serene and memorable Christmas celebration in the heart of wine country.
For those escaping to the cool air and grand architecture of the Blue Mountains, two iconic venues offer spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. At the Hydro Majestic, The Wintergarden presents an elegant evening of fine dining set against panoramic escarpment views - an atmospheric way to ring in the new year.
Meanwhile, at Lilianfels, Darley’s ensures a night of timeless charm and exceptional cuisine inside one of the region’s most historic dining rooms
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Across Australia’s most scenic destinations, Salter Brothers Hospitality invites guests to savour the season with unforgettable festive moments - each one crafted with care, luxury and culinary artistry.
