Scenic Rim
The Scenic Rim boasts a huge swathe of ancient rainforest, volcanic peaks and farmland across more than 4,000 square kilometres of South East Queensland, making it an easy day trip or a longer trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. This ECO Certified destination is home to the Gondwana Rainforests & World Heritage-listed national parks, sprawling mountain ranges and what’s arguably one of the strongest regional food cultures in Queensland. Throw in the fact that Lonely Planet named it one of the Top 10 Regions in Best in Travel 2022, and you’ll start to get a sense of why so many people plan holidays here.
- Full Day
- 8 Hours (approx.)
- $ 320 AUD
- $ 299 AUD
- Full Day
- 8 Hours (approx.)
- $ 540 AUD
- $ 499 AUD
- Full Day
- 8 Hours (approx.)
- $ 195 AUD
- $ 165 AUD
- Full Day
- 7 Hours (approx.)
- $ 130 AUD
- $ 119 AUD
- Full Day
- 6 Hours (approx.)
- $ 110 AUD
- $ 99 AUD
- 1 Day
- 6 Hours (approx.)
- $ 215 AUD
- $ 115 AUD
Mountain & Eco Wilderness
The Scenic Rim undulates across the Great Dividing Range and the remnants of a volcanic system that’s been ticking away for over 20 million years. The high country still clings on to some of the last remaining World Heritage rainforests you’ll find anywhere, while the valleys below are home to farms and grazing land.
The Lamington National Park, Mt Barney National Park, the Main Range National Park and the Moogerah Peaks National Park all do a great job of protecting the mountain country. Now, Mt Barney is a real wild card, pretty rugged if you ask me. But if you’re after something a bit more low-key, then Mount French, Mount Edwards, or Mount Cordeaux might be up your street.
The region’s been certified by Ecotourism Australia as a sustainable tourism destination. And it’s an area that the Traditional Owners, the Ugarapul Peoples, for a start, have a long and proud history of connection to, one that stretches way back before the national parks were even established.
FAQ
How long do you need in the Scenic Rim?
The truth is, 2 days is enough to see one part of the region, e.g., Mount Tamborine and Lamington, but let’s be honest, 3 or 4 days gives a lot more room to breathe, to take in Mt Barney, Lake Moogerah, local producers, and a farm stay without spending all your time in the car.
What makes the Scenic Rim so special?
Well, it’s famous for the Gondwana Rainforests, World Heritage landscapes that are just stunning, volcanic mountain ranges, some amazing national parks, bushwalking and local produce.
What are the best national parks in the Scenic Rim?
Now, Lamington is your go-to for some serious World Heritage rainforest walking; if you want something a bit shorter, then Tamborine is your place, waterfalls and all that. If, however, you want to head into some tougher mountain country, then you should be looking at Mt Barney, Main Range and Moogerah Peaks.
Where can I see glow worms in the Scenic Rim?
You can catch a glimpse of the glow worms at Cedar Creek Estate on Mount Tamborine, but to be honest, the best bit is the Glow-Worm Caves, which have a controlled environment that will give you the best chance of spotting them.
What is the best time to visit the Scenic Rim?
If you can make it during the cooler months, that would be great; the longer bushwalks and exposed mountain routes are much more pleasant. If you’re interested in food, June is a great time to come — Scenic Rim Eat Local Month brings the farmers, producers, and restaurants together across the region.
Popular Places to Visit
Experience The Best Of Brisbane
The river is the natural place to start. Ferries and bridges connect the two banks, while riverside walking paths lead between gardens, restaurants and city views.
South Bank Parklands sits directly opposite the Brisbane CBD, bringing together around 15 hectares of parkland, Streets Beach and the Queensland Cultural Centre. Across the river, Queen Street Mall and the 18-hectare City Botanic Gardens offer a mix of busy city streets and quieter waterfront spaces.
Kangaroo Point has some of the best views of the Brisbane skyline and Story Bridge. Nearby, Howard Smith Wharves brings dining and riverside spaces beneath the bridge. New Farm, Fortitude Valley and West End add another mix of parkland, nightlife, leafy streets and charming cafés.
