5 Relaxing day trips from Brisbane

Brisbane is the capital of sunny Queensland, filled with plenty of attractions to suit all interests. Whether you want to learn more about local Australian culture, immerse yourself in the local art scene, or hit the city’s hip bar scene, you’ll find no shortage of ways to keep busy. Yet when you’re ready to sit back and relax, you may want to take a visit to the natural surroundings of the Brisbane Hinterland or Gold Coast.

The following are beautiful natural destinations to enjoy; all located a short drive away from the Brisbane city centre.

5 relaxing day trips from Brisbane I recommend:

1. Caloundra

The Sunshine Coast is located to the north of Brisbane, and is home to many small towns and laid back villages. One of the most relaxing destinations on the Sunshine Coast is the town of Caloundra, which offers a number of recreational opportunities for visitors. Whether you prefer fishing, surfing, or boating out into the placid waters, you’ll be able to take your pick of exciting water sports. Another popular area is Noosa, with its warm waters and beginning surf schools.

2. Glasshouse Mountains

Located approximately 70 kilometres away from Brisbane are the twelve mountains that make up the Glasshouse Mountain Range. You’ll need a day pass to enter the national park, but once you have made your way there you can enjoy a relaxing hike, picnic, or bike ride in the hills. The Glasshouse Mountains are also home to a diverse population of native flora and fauna, so you may spot a koala in its natural habitat as you stroll through this misty enclave.

Glass House Mountains

*photo credit 

3. Tamborine National Park

If you’re looking for another area with a range of walking trails, the Tamborine National Park could be just the destination. It’s located in close enough proximity to Brisbane that you could head there for lunch and a hike, and be back by mid-afternoon. There are nine walking tracks to choose from, which take you through stunning scenery including rocky cliffs, old growth cedar forests, and tropical rainforests. The park is quite popular with birdwatchers, so be sure to bring a pair of binoculars.

4. Gold Coast

Do you fancy renting a sports car or one of these convertible Nissan cars and taking a stylish ride down the coast? You’ll want to hit the glitzy destinations of the Gold Coast, located to the south of Brisbane. See and be seen in Gold Coast restaurants and seaside cafes, go Gold Coast shopping, or stay overnight to hit the dance floor. There’s also ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings by going for a rainforest trek or simply sunning yourself on one of the many pristine beaches in the area.

5. Lone Pine Koala Reserve

Animal lovers won’t want to miss star attractions near Brisbane like Steve Irwin’s Australian Zoo. Yet one of the most original destinations is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, which is even closer into town. As the oldest and largest koala reserve in the world, this sanctuary is home both to Australia’s famous koalas as well as many other native species. Spot kangaroos bounding along and learn more about the sanctuary’s preservation efforts.

After your day out in the wilderness at any of these five scenic destinations, you’ll be able to return to Brisbane with your batteries recharged.

You may also like

Astounding Aboriginal rock art in Australia

Benefits of traveling to Australia

Fraser Island: A 4X4 Adventure

3 exciting things to do in Queensland

A guide to visiting Tasmania: Australia’s secret paradise

Posted in Australia, nature, tips, travel Tags: Australia, Brisbane, Caloundra, Glasshouse Mountains, Gold Coast, Lone Pine Koala Reserve, Tamborine National Park