Secrets on the Lake wins hearts, and awards as enchanting Montville escape

Adding to its already impressive collection of awards, Montville’s beloved Secrets on the Lake recently won the Glassies Silver Award for Best Business in Montville, earned the title of Best of Queensland Experience and continued its streak of national and international recognition.

On the edge of Lake Baroon and embraced by ancient rainforest, Secrets is the life’s work of owners George and Aldy Johnston, who have spent three decades creating a destination that blends luxury with artistry, nature with warmth.

“It’s been 28 years since George and I opened our doors, and from the very beginning, we’ve poured our hearts and souls into building and nurturing this little piece of paradise,” said Aldy. “From the handcrafted treehouses to the art-filled spaces, it’s always been more than just a business. It’s our life’s work.”

In addition to their local wins, Secrets has also been a multiple finalist in the Australian Bridal Industry Association Awards, recognised in categories including Ceremony Venue and First Night Honeymoon, and recently named a Diners’ Choice favourite on OpenTable for its acclaimed Dining on the Deck restaurant.

Guests return time and again for honeymoons, anniversaries, and peaceful escapes, drawn by the one-of-a-kind treehouses, personal service, and breathtaking views.

One guest recently wrote: “All I can really say about Secrets on the Lake is WOW! The staff are amazing, the place is amazing—I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a magical place to unwind.”

Another said simply: “Such a wonderful getaway. Peaceful and impeccable views.”

Secrets offers a suite of thoughtfully curated packages such as Spoil Yourself, Escape, and Ultimate Romance, making it easy to create lasting memories—whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth.

“This place has soul,” said Aldy. “We’ve had couples walk in and cry when they see their treehouse for the first time. That emotional connection is what makes Secrets so special.”

“Secrets has become a place to propose, marry, honeymoon, and return for anniversary after anniversary,” said George. “We’ve been lucky enough to welcome some guests back for 26 years, returning to the very treehouse where their journey together began.”

Whether you’re booking a long lunch or breakfast, a luxury stay, or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, Secrets on the Lake continues to set a benchmark for heartfelt hospitality in the Hinterland.

• To book or learn more, visit www.secretsonthelake.com.au or call 5478 5888.

Locals welcome at Dining on the Deck: Montville’s hidden gem with a view to match

Locals in the know have long considered Dining on the Deck at Secrets on the Lake one of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s best-kept secrets – and now the word is well and truly out.

Voted a Diners’ Choice favourite on OpenTable, the stunning treetop restaurant perched above Lake Baroon is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. The chef’s serve up seasonal, mouth-watering meals Tuesday to Sunday, with breakfast, lunch, and decadent high teas on offer.

“We love it when locals bring their guests here. It means we’re doing something right,” said owner Aldy Johnston. “Whether it’s a quiet breakfast for two or a big family celebration, we make sure it’s special.”

The deck itself seems to float in the rainforest canopy, surrounded by ancient trees, lake views and birdsong. It’s a popular spot for birthdays, bridal showers and anniversaries—and you don’t need to be staying in the luxury treehouses to book a table.

As one guest wrote recently: “Absolutely brilliant place for a meal or just a coffee. The location is just superb—as is the food.”

• Reservations are recommended. Dining on the Deck | 207 Narrows Rd, Montville | 5478 5888 | www.secretsonthelake.com.au.

 George and Aldy Johnston: “From the very beginning, we’ve poured our hearts and souls into building & nurturing this little piece of paradise.”