Always a little cooler, less humid and very green, the Gold Coast hinterland is surprisingly different from the sun and sand of the coast. Instead, the hinterland promises lush rainforest with waterfalls, hills of pasture and small villages stocked with country crafts. And it doesn't take long to drive to this stunning countryside so it's perfect for a day trip from Brisbane.
The destinations in this article are between one to two hours drive from Brisbane. Choose one place to spend the day (or longer) exploring.
Mount Tamborine
Well-known for the Gallery Walk, Mount Tamborine has a strip of local arts and crafts shops plus fine galleries. But, increasingly, there are boutique wineries and gourmet producers opening up their cellar and farm doors in the region. There are short rainforest walks too in national parks within close proximity to the township and many unique, intimate types of accommodation perfect for a romantic getaway.
There's Tamborine National Park, with many bushwalking tracks.
Read about three great Hinterland bushwalks, one of which is the Witches Falls Circuit on Tamborine Mountain.
Plan to visit the monthly Sunday Mount Tamborine Arts and Craft markets.
Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park
This area is known for it's glow worm caves at Natural Bridge, which are amazing to see. And after good rains you can take a walk to waterfalls.
There are bush walks to suit all abilities, including a wheelchair accessible track.
Or take the drive through the Numinbah Valley for wonderful views and curving roads.
Binna Burra and O'Reilly's
Both destinations are perched on the edge of the incredible Lamington National Park. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage listed area that protects Australia's largest remnant of sub-tropical rainforest. Long or short bushwalks are on offer on 160 kilometres of tracks. Walk past buttress roots of fig trees, feel small underneath the towering trees and rockhop over little creeks. From Binna Burra you can look over the Coomera Valley to see the tall buildings and bright lights of the Gold Coast in the distance.
A 20 kilometre walking track joins the two resorts, providing a challenging all-day walk for enthusiasts. The drive to Binna Burra passes through the small but pretty township of Beechmont. O'Reilly's is reached via Canungra and is approximately two hours drive from Brisbane.
Binna Burra and O'Reilly's both offer all sorts of accommodation from camping to pure luxury in the lodge or cabins and are eco-accredited.
Join a bushwalking tour of the national park with Boots A Walkin'.
Beaudesert and Canungra
These towns and the wider region have lots to offer visitors. Read about Beaudesert for more information.
There are a growing number of wineries in the Gold Coast Hinterland too which are well worth a stop to sip.
