Brisbane is a brilliant city, but the real magic happens when you leave the CBD. With World Heritage rainforests to the south and volcanic mountains to the west, you are spoilt for choice.
The problem is that most visitors just stick to the South Bank pool or drive straight to the Gold Coast. They miss the best parts.
If you have a car and a free weekend, here are three trips that will show you the side of South East Queensland most tourists miss.
The Scenic Rim (For the Views)
Lonely Planet named this one of the top regions in the world to visit, and they weren’t wrong. It is a massive caldera of ancient volcanic peaks and open farmland.
The Drive: Head south-west via Beaudesert. The roads out here are wide and open—perfect for cruising. Stop at Mount Barney for a serious hike or check out the sunflowers in Kalbar. It feels like the middle of the outback, but it’s less than 90 minutes from the city.
Springbrook National Park (For the Rainforest)
Forget the beach. Go into the clouds. Springbrook is part of the Gondwana Rainforests and features some of the best waterfalls in the country.
The Drive: This is a winding, climbing drive into the hinterland behind the Gold Coast. You’ll want a vehicle with decent power to handle the hills comfortably. The walk to the Natural Bridge (a waterfall flowing into a cave) is non-negotiable.
Maleny & Montville (For the Food)
Head north to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for cooler air and European vibes. These mountain villages are famous for fudge, cheese, and incredible views of the Glass House Mountains.
The Drive: The drive up the range offers spectacular lookouts. It’s tight and twisty in parts, so take it slow. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic weekend or a relaxed family trip.
The Best Way to Start
Public transport to these regions is basically non-existent. You need your own wheels to explore them properly.
If you are flying in, don’t waste time going into the city centre first. Pick up your car hire from Brisbane Airport, and you can be on the Gateway Motorway heading to these spots in minutes. It’s the smartest way to start your Queensland adventure.
