Escape to the beach at Rainbow Bay

The tang of salt on the breeze, the sun sparkling on the waves, the crunch of sand underfoot – there’s nothing quite like a beach holiday to recharge your batteries.

Tucked into a quiet corner of the Gold Coast, with the ocean right on its doorstep, St George’s Defence Holiday Suites has been a peaceful escape for current and ex-service people for more than a century – although it has seen drastic changes over that time.

In 1915, Canon David Garland – the ‘Architect of ANZAC Day’ – established the Soldiers’ Church of England Help Society, which originally bought the Rainbow Bay block for deploying and returning soldiers to seek respite.

Over the years, the accommodation has seen many changes, from basic tents to dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms, kitchens and dining facilities, to the red brick holiday house that was eventually built in 1954. Although renovated over the years, this building remained until a decision was made in 2014 to replace it with a modern high-rise apartment building.

Opened in December 2016, St George’s Defence Holiday Suites at The Garland is luxury accommodation bearing no resemblance to the canvas tents originally pitched on the Rainbow Bay block. Gorgeous, self- contained units offer every amenity and are decorated in a soothing palette of blues and greens that reflects the view of the ocean.

Guests can take advantage of the stunning pool and outdoor barbeque facilities, or simply step across the road to enjoy the waves. And they’re only a short stroll away from cafes, restaurants, shopping and all the delights of the Gold Coast.

In accordance with its original purpose, the first three floors are reserved for current and ex-service people and their families, offering a range of studio and two-bedroom air- conditioned apartments priced from $80 per night.

To book, call 07 5536 1261 or visit St George's Defence Holiday Suites for more information.