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We went to Mount Tamborine and discovered this nature escape so close to Brisbane!
The goal is to get to Mt. Tamborine this year. So, there I was, sitting in Brisbane, staring at my watch and thinking, “Can I really be up in the mountains in under an hour?” Challenge accepted since I have to return to work tomorrow (cries inside, lol!)
It’s like hitting fast forward on your life’s remote. One minute you’re dodging traffic, and the next you’re breathing in fresh mountain air, surrounded by rainforests, and wondering if you’ve just entered some magical portal.
This trip feels like you’ve cheated time because who knew paradise was just an hour away? The journey is half the fun—especially when you realize you’re already on Mt. Tamborine and it’s actually doable!
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Mt Tamborine is during the cooler months from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Spring, in particular, offers beautiful blooming flowers and lush greenery.
The Fastest Route (M1)
To drive from Brisbane to Mt Tamborine, take the Pacific Motorway (M1) south and continue for about 45 km. Take Exit 57 towards Oxenford-Southport Road (State Route 95), following signs for Tamborine Mountain.
Continue on Tamborine-Oxenford Road (State Route 95), which will lead you up the mountain. The total distance is approximately 70 km, and the drive typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Must-See Stops Along the Way (M1)
Puzzled Room Escape
Address: 5/1177 Logan Rd
If you’re into mind-bending challenges or just want a fun way to break up your road trip, Puzzled Room Escape is a must-visit! It’s like living out your very own detective story for an hour!
Each room has its own unique theme and storyline, so you’ll be fully immersed in the adventure, whether you’re solving a crime, escaping a haunted room, or cracking codes in a futuristic lab.
You can do this with friends, family, or even solo if you’re feeling extra brave. It’s a great stop to shake things up before heading up to the scenic Tamborine Mountain.
Beenleigh Historical Village & Museum
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Address: 205 Main St
Looking to step back in time for a bit? Beenleigh Historical Village & Museum is like a window into the past, giving you a peek at what life was like in Queensland during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
This little gem of a place is packed with restored buildings, from an old schoolhouse to a blacksmith’s workshop, all set up to show off the history and heritage of the area.
It’s not just about looking at old stuff, though—you can actually watch live demonstrations of traditional trades, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a vintage car show or one of their special events.
Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre
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Address: 149 Acacia Rd
For those who love a bit of nature, Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre is a fantastic stop to stretch your legs and learn something new about Brisbane’s natural environment.
The Discovery Center itself is pretty cool, especially if you’re traveling with kids, because there are interactive displays, a virtual reality experience, and even a water play area. It’s all about learning why we need to protect them, but in a super fun way.
The forest itself is ideal for a short hike or a picnic, with plenty of spots to sit down, relax, and enjoy the scenery. You might spot some native wildlife along the way, like kookaburras, wallabies, or even a koala if you’re lucky.
Mount Gravatt Outlook
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Address: Mount Gravatt Outlook Dr
Before you hit the winding roads up to Tamborine Mountain, take a detour to Mount Gravatt Outlook for one of the best views of Brisbane. This spot is perfect for a quick stop to stretch your legs.
The lookout also has a few walking trails nearby if you feel like getting a bit of fresh air and taking a short hike. The trails aren’t too tough, and they lead you through some lovely bushland, making it a nice little escape.
Whether you’re there during the day to see Brisbane sprawled out beneath you or in the evening to watch the city lights twinkle, it’s a great photo op—you can’t go wrong with a selfie against that stunning backdrop!
The Scenic Route
To drive from Brisbane to Mt Tamborine via the scenic route, start by heading south on Waterworks Road (State Route 31), which will take you towards The Gap. Continue on Mount Nebo Road, enjoying the winding roads and lush scenery of D’Aguilar National Park.
Follow Mount Glorious Road through the picturesque Samford Valley, eventually merging onto Mount Tamborine Road (State Route 95). This road will take you directly up the mountain to your destination.
The total distance is about 90 km, and the drive typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Scenic Route)
City Botanic Gardens
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Address: 147 Alice St
Okay, so before you hit the road to Mt Tamborine, why not kick things off with a relaxing stroll through the City Botanic Gardens? It’s like the perfect warm-up before the adventure ahead.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, towering trees, and winding paths that make you forget you’re still in the city. It’s a great spot to just chill out, maybe grab a coffee, and take in the scenery.
What’s cool about the City Botanic Gardens is that it’s not just about the plants—there’s history here too. You can wander around and stumble upon some interesting sculptures, historic landmarks, and even a little bamboo grove.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Address: 708 Jesmond Rd
Alright, so no trip from Brisbane would be complete without a stop at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. I mean, come on—where else can you cuddle a koala and get up close with some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife?
What I love about Lone Pine is that it’s not just a place to see animals—it’s an experience. You can learn about conservation efforts, catch some cool animal shows, and even hop on a river cruise to get there, which is pretty awesome.
Besides the koalas (which are obviously the stars of the show), you’ll also get to hang out with kangaroos, feed lorikeets, and even spot a few wombats if you’re lucky.
Mount Coot-tha Lookout
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Address: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr
Seriously, the panoramic views from up there are next-level. You can see the entire city skyline, the winding Brisbane River, and on a clear day, you might even spot the distant outline of Moreton Bay.
What’s great about Mount Coot-tha is that it’s not just a lookout spot. You’ve got the Summit Restaurant and Bar right there if you want to grab a bite or a coffee with a view.
And if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, there are a bunch of walking trails around the area that offer different perspectives of the city and the surrounding bushland. It’s a great place to stretch your legs before you continue on your road trip.
Gold Coast beaches
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Address: Gold Coast
Okay, this is where the trip really starts to feel like a vacation—hitting up the Gold Coast beaches! Whether you’re into surfing, swimming, or just lazing on the sand, places like Surfers Paradise and Currumbin Beach have you covered.
Surfers Paradise is buzzing with energy—think golden sands, beach volleyball, and a vibe that’s just pure fun. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, Currumbin Beach is a great spot to chill out, with calmer waters.
The Gold Coast is famous for its pristine beaches and epic waves, so if you’ve got some time to spare, it’s definitely worth pulling over for a swim or surf session. Plus, there’s just something about that fresh ocean air (and it’s for you to find out!).
How to Get Around Mt Tamborine
Car service: Driving is the most convenient way to get around Mt Tamborine because parking is generally easy to find. The area is spread out, and having your own car means you can easily hop between the different attractions.
On foot: If you’re up for some walking, the main village areas are compact and pedestrian-friendly. You can stroll through the Gallery Walk, where you’ll find cute shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Guided Tour: If you’d rather sit back and let someone else do the driving, consider joining a guided tour. It’s a great way to experience the area without worrying about directions or parking.
Plenty of local operators offer tours that cover the best spots on the mountain, including wine tours, glow worm cave visits, and even hot air balloon rides.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Mt Tamborine
Maps.me: free, detailed offline maps with turn-by-turn navigation for driving, hiking, or biking.
GasBuddy: search for gas stations near your location, compare gas prices, and track your gas usage
AllTrails: maps and reviews of all the best trails around, track your hike, see photos, and get tips from other hikers
TripAdvisor: find best restaurants, attractions, and accommodation, reviews, photos, and insider tips
