Spicers Tamarind Retreat

Spicers Tamarind is the perfect retreat to get away from it all! The Orchard Villa was lovely and luxurious, the beds were so comfortable, the temperature was perfect, and our puppy was welcomed. The Tamarind had great breakfast options, even for those with dietary requirements, and room service was available. The grounds and trees were huge, well maintained and green. More than anything else though, our stay was quiet and relaxing, exactly what we were looking for.

Beautiful villa and grounds, delicious breakfast and dinner and great service. Only reason this isn't a 5 star review was that our villa was less private and didn't have the direct outlook to the bush that the neighbouring villas had (would have given 4.5 stars if Tripadvisor allowed that).

Well we could only afford to have morning coffee outside the restaurant but it was a very enjoyable experience. It would be a lovely place to stay in the lush rainforest with beautiful grounds that include a sculpture garden. The staff were friendly and welcoming. It would be a lovely place to stay.

It was just an overnight stay, but wow. We arrived at Spicers, tired and a bit jaded from overpriced "fine dining" establishments on our holiday. Our cabin, surrounded by tropical vegetation was gorgeous and well set out. We were hungry, having been let down by another high priced "chef's hatted" establishment and we ordered two mains to be delivered to our cabin. OMG!! We rate them as the best meals of our trip. A crispy white fish and a Duck Green Curry with steamed crab (not what you'd immediately put together but stunning). These two served with rice and a generous complimentary bottle of Prosecco restored our faith. The service was low key but perfect and our meal was delivered and the tray taken away without fanfare. I had a chat with Ty this morning before our departure and he made sure that we'd had a great stay and gave me a jar of chilli oil to take away. Easily the winner on our brief trip. Next time we plan to try a cooking class.

At $ 800 per night, this has to be a special treat. And, I'm happy to report, it is. Spicers have got the concepts of luxury, relaxation and pampering down to a fine art. No detail is overlooked and it all happens in a non-pompous, casual manner. We stayed in Luxury Forest Villa #13, which is the furthest from reception and restaurant ; total peace and quiet, but still an easy stroll for a meal. It is a small house, with everything that you could possibly need, and of the best quality. The bed is divinely comfortable, the bath with amenities opulent. Late afternoon we were invited for some complimentary dumplings in the restaurant : 2 per person and you buy your own drinks. The grounds are well maintained, but have kept their-foresty look ; there is a 15 minute walk to "the falls", a small natural pool with waterfall (which was hardly running because of the lack of rain). You can choose to have your breakfast in the room or in the restaurant, and we decided for the latter. There is a complimentary continental (banana bread, small yoghurt and fruit) and you choose 1 main. Although delicious, I thought it was a fairly small offering and I could have done with a little more. Spicers is the perfect place to forget about problems and stress ; unwind and re-load the batteries. A very special treat.

The accommodation and grounds did not disappoint. Secluded villas with everything you need to relax and enjoy your stay. Staff are friendly and attentive. Our package included breakfast and 3 course dinner. Recommended.