THE SPACE

Welcome to the lesser-known part of Noosa, tucked a couple of kilometres from canal-front homes and bustling boutique shopping at Hastings Street. Promotional material for Eumarella says the accommodation is just minutes from the very best of Noosa. Some might argue the point – that Eumarella actually is the very best of Noosa, and that the rest is just minutes away. Lakeside land has been nurtured for generations, and resort has been there for decades. Beautifully kept, there's a distinct Queensland flavour about the stand-alone timber cottages, the wildlife which sits in the tree alongside a deck, and the private lakeside deck from which to launch the kayak you've borrowed from the retreat.

THE KIT

The cottages are far from new, but the luxuries are ageless – from the fluffy towels, modern decor, fireplace and fully-equipped kitchen. The owners seem to have thought of everything and have invested heavily in updates to blinds, beds and bathrooms. The biggest point of confusion will be where to relax – on the bed, the couch, or out on the verandah. Others might be out paddling on the clear-water lake. But why bother exerting all that energy when there are platters to devour?

STEPPING OUT

A weekend at Eumarella should be about discovery. Even if you've braved the knee-deep waters of the lake in one of the resort's canoes, there are other options not far away; options which will require a little less effort, and an opportunity to swap the paddle for a glass of bubbly. Electric bikes for hire from Malu Os on the Noosa River are fun, but the real treat is a couple of hours on the river in a solar-operated boat. The gondola-esque experience is best done with a beverage and pre-dinner snack. Late in the afternoon, keep an eye out for birds in their natural habitat, and Noosa's wealthy set emerging from their backyard banana lounges and swimming pools.

THE VERDICT

Pinch yourself. Eumarella is another side of Noosa, well removed from the better-known buzz of Hastings Street. Not as well known perhaps, but no less beautiful and much quieter. Cottages are spotless, and old enough to be immersed in natural surrounds. Waking up to the sunrise is one of nature's big shows. The weekend is best served up with a small dose of activity, laced with a solid nip of post-recreational relaxation. And don't forget the bubbly.

HOW TO GET THERE

The hike from Brisbane is about 1½ hours by car. You can take either the Eumundi road, or via the Sunshine Motorway. Eumarella Drive is about four kilometres from the centre of Noosa. From Eumundi-Noosa Road, turn right at the roundabout into Emu Mountain Road, and continue through the next roundabout on to Eumarella Road.

ESSENTIALS

Eurmarella Shores Noosa Lake Retreat, 251 Eumarella Road, Lake Weyba Downs. Prices start at about $225 for a three-night mid-week stay. They rise to a minimum $280 on weekends. They do, however, vary considerably based on the style of cottage – up to $670 for the luxury three-bedroom lakehouse. Phone 07 5449 1738, see eumarellashores.com.au.