Hotel Report: Soul Surfers Paradise

I’m the first to admit I’m a sucker for a seaside apartment with walls of glass and a big fat balcony capable of accommodating more than a teeny table and chairs. Really, what is the point of a balcony with a view if you can’t share it? If there’s space for a big comfy daybed even better.

So I was pretty chuffed when I checked into a spacious 14th floor apartment in what was then called Sea Temple, but as of 1 November 2013 is now known as Soul Surfers Paradise. Not one but two balconies. Admittedly the second one was really just a walkway allowing bedrooms 2 & 3 to have floor to ceiling sliding glass doors,that open to let the breeze in. But the main balcony overlooking the beach,  accessed from main bedroom and living room, was large enough for a six seater dining table and a day bed. That did it for me.

All the hallmarks of water-themed Sea Temple are in abundance too from the drop dead view of the Pacific Ocean from all floors though the water theme is raised to another superior level on the third floor. An indoor heated lap pool, jacuzzi pools, steam room and sauna plus a gym should keep most water babies and exercise junkies sated. Outdoors a double level horizon edge pool is surrounded by sun lounges, umbrellas and gardens, protected from a boisterous afternoon seabreeze by frameless glass. It’s just the kind of place to slip into a bikini, slap on some sunscreen and curl up with a book or three. If only I had the time to while away countless hours of indulgent reading.

Just a short walk from the Cavill Avenue restaurant and party strip and across the road from famous Surfers Paradise beach, the pool deck is close enough for unobtrusive people watching yet far enough away to keep the pesky sand from between your toes. I particularly enjoyed rising at dawn to run along this gorgeous strip of beach that forms part of the annual Gold Coast Marathon. In fact the previous time I was in town that’s exactly how my morning started, with a gruelling 42.2km run so I know this strip of coast intimately. Back then crowds of onlookers lined the street outside Soul, some sipping coffee, others champagne, to cheer us on. After I recovered I joined the throng for some celebratory bubbles of my own.

With the change in branding comes great opportunities for holidaymakers who can trust the Mantra Group brand. It  is the most experienced operator of integrated and mixed use properties in Australia. Mantra Group CEO Bob East said he looked forward to taking Soul Surfers Paradise to an even greater level of distinction:

“Soul Surfers Paradise is a very exciting addition to our network. The property is already recognised as an outstanding development and our vision is for Soul to be considered one of the most iconic and successful integrated beachside properties in Australia.”

Soul is an impressive 77 level tower located on the corner of Cavill Ave and The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise. Developed by Juniper, the development – including the apartment letting business – was placed into receivership in October 2012.

Receiver and Manager Michael Fung of PwC said the management appointment of Mantra Group is a strategic step in the ongoing evolution of the Soul development:

“Mantra Group is recognised as having extensive experience in managing strata titled properties. It has successfully operated beachside locations throughout Australia. We are confident that Mantra Group will maximise returns to owners while delivering the five-star experience that Soul has to offer.”

“The Soul development is already recognised as a unique and prestigious five-star property Australia-wide and internationally. By operating the apartment letting business as Soul Surfers Paradise, Mantra Group can utilise its expertise to capitalise on Soul’s current profile in the market.”

All two and three bedroom apartments at Soul Surfers Paradise enjoy spectacular unobstructed ocean views, spacious floor plans, exceptional finishes, beautifully integrated indoor and outdoor spaces, superb colour palates, and exclusive fittings.

Soul’s acclaimed two-hatted restaurant, Seaduction, has its own wine-tasting room and private dining room and bar, while the vibrant retail precinct offers excellent onsite shopping and dining. For business and entertaining, Soul incorporates well-appointed conference and meeting rooms to host special events of all kinds, including weddings and other celebrations.

Verdict: Highly recommended.
Note: Groups of 6 can be easily accommodated in three bedroom apartments.

For further information visit the Soul Surfers Paradise website.