BEST OF THE GOLD COAST HINTERLAND

Welcome to the Green Cauldron

Just beyond the glistening coastline, cloaked in a canopy of lush green, lies a hidden world of natural splendour known as the Gold Coast hinterland.

Take a deep breath, and feel your senses awaken as you step inside this mythical-like realm. Walking tracks meander through World Heritage-listed rainforests, majestic mountains stretch skywards, and cascading waterfalls carve a watery path through pristine habitats that are home to some of the earth’s most rare and threatened species.

The dramatic geological features of the hinterland were formed by the eruptions of a massive volcano located near present-day Mount Warning, some 20 to 23 million years ago. Once the molten lava flows had laid the foundations, the erosive power of water carved its mark on the landscape, etching out magnificent waterfalls, deep gorges, and rugged cliffs. Tamborine, Springbrook and Lamington National Parks protect the profound natural value of this precious and pristine environment.

To the traditional custodians of these lands, the Yugambeh people, the ancient mountains of the area are sacred and spiritual places to be nurtured and respected by all. They feel a deep connection with this ancient land. It’s breathtaking magnificence commands a sense of reverence and awe from even the most casual visitor. Stone artefacts, rock shelters, and earthen rings scattered across the area testify to its Indigenous historical and cultural significance.

Lovingly known to locals as the ‘Green Cauldron’, this once volcanic landscape, now carpeted in prehistoric forests, possesses an almost magical quality that’s sure to cast its spell on you. Join us on a journey to a land where time seems to stand still. Listen as towering trees whisper a quiet invitation to relax and reconnect with nature, and life’s little worries are washed away by a soothing symphony of waterfalls and birdsong.

Tamborine Mountain

Just a 45-minute drive from Surfers Paradise lies the charming village of Tamborine Mountain – where days are spent chasing waterfalls or indulging in the freshest produce and finest local tipples.

Tamborine National Park protects the fragile ecosystem of the northern-most reaches of the Mount Warning lava flow. It creates a haven for an astounding assortment of plants and wildlife and incorporates Queensland’s first national park - the mysteriously named Witches Falls. Explore the area on the park’s walking tracks, most of which are relatively easy and can be completed within a few hours.

The Cedar Creek track to the lookout is a great option for almost everyone, including young families with strollers and wheelchair users with assistance. This 500 metre return track leads to a lookout with cool mountain breezes and stunning views of a dramatic gorge and streaming falls cascading into Cedar Creek. Sun-drenched gum trees stand guard over the open forest, filling the air with the invigorating scent of their eucalypt blossoms. Closer to the riverbank, dry rainforest creates a towering canopy, and delicate orchids and ferns decorate the forest floor. From the lookout, follow the 1.1-kilometre return trail to the rock pools below, for a dip in the refreshing waters of this cool mountain creek.

Beyond its spellbinding natural appeal, Tamborine Mountain also boasts a host of other enticing attractions. The popular Gallery Walk on Long Road is perfectly punctuated with award-winning restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and breathtaking coastal views. Taste mouthwatering fudge at Granny Macs, indulge in the freshest French delights at Franquette Bakery, or sample liqueurs, spirits and old-world charm at Tamborine Mountain Distillery.

There’s plenty of quaint places to nestle in for the night, including the luxurious self-contained cottages at The Polish Place, with double spas, cosy wood fires, and an onsite restaurant delivering a true taste of Poland.

Springbrook National Park

Welcome to Springbrook National Park - one of the world’s most precious and pristine natural environments.

Forming part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, this park protects geological wonders, ancient forests, and a vast array of songbirds and wildlife – many of which are found nowhere else on earth. Thundering waterfalls and cascading creeks continue to etch watery paths across this breathtaking biome, which seems to possess its own wild and energetic spirit.

One of the more accessible geological features is Natural Bridge. Nestled in the beautiful Numinbah Valley, this iconic rock formation hides amidst a leafy camouflage of lush subtropical rainforest. Follow a 1 kilometre return sealed circuit track and descend through the ancient Gondwana rainforest into an arched cave. Here you’ll stand at the foot of a plunging waterfall, crowned with a natural rock bridge carved from the volcanic basalt by the erosive power of water. Hoop pines emerging from surrounding forests are living relics of the Jurassic Age, 180 million years ago. At night the cave comes alive with the tiny green lights of thousands of nocturnal glow-worms.

Or visit the highest part of the Springbrook Plateau and the aptly named Best of All Lookout. This 600-metre track takes you on a journey back in time, through a remnant of ancient Antarctic beech forest which once covered the Gondwana supercontinent. Touch the gnarled bark of these prehistoric giants, some of which are believed to be around 3000 years old! The lookout offers sweeping views of northern New South Wales, and the imposing silhouette of Mount Warning - once the epicentre of volcanic activity in the region.

While visiting, listen for the rustlings of small rainforest wallabies known as pademelons, the raucous calls of black cockatoos, or the plaintive cry of the brown cuckoo-dove.

Lamington National Park

Embark on an exhilarating escape into the vast wilderness of Lamington National Park.

This nature-lovers playground lies on the southern edge of the Scenic Rim, forming part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. It’s famous for its ancient trees, stunning waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and majestic mountains. The park covers over 21,000 hectares of protected area that sustains some of the world’s oldest trees and forests, providing refuge to wildlife including many rare and threatened species.

Lamington National Park comprises two main sections – Green Mountains and Binna Burra. More than 130 kilometres of walking trails meander through the wilderness, ranging from short, accessible strolls or rolls to the epic 54-kilometre Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk.

The Centenary Track offers an accessible introduction to hiking in the area. This 1.8 kilometre return sealed path in the Green Mountains section slowly ascends through an aromatic subtropical rainforest and tall hoop pine forest. The track is often scattered with yellow citrus-smelling lemon aspen fruit, and the bright-red fruit of the southern satin ash. Bench seating spaced along the path provides a great place to be still and present in this beautiful environment. Listen for the melodious calls of ancient songbirds, including the mechanical churring of bowerbirds, the mimicking calls of Albert’s lyrebirds, or the distinctive song of the eastern whipbird.

Or dive deeper into the heart of this ancient landscape with a full-day hike along the breathtaking Border Track. This challenging yet highly rewarding 21.4-kilometre one-way hike traverses warm and cool subtropical and temperate rainforest, lush valleys, clear mountain streams, stunning waterfalls and high ridge lines, giving a real sense of the spirit of this place.

Ecotourism-accredited accommodation is offered at both O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and Binna Burra Lodge, and private campgrounds and bush camping are available.

Lamington National Park truly is a wilderness wonderland!

Hidden Gems

Nestled amidst the lush mountains and valleys of the stunning Gold Coast hinterland lay quaint country towns and hidden gems awaiting your discovery.

Follow a picturesque winding road from the coast, past fresh fruit stalls and towering stands of trees, to the hinterland haven of Canungra. With a charming English tudor-style hotel, café serving up famous pies and warm hospitality, and village markets on the second Sunday of each month, it’s a great place to visit on your way up the mountain.

Just outside town, stretching along the banks of the Canungra Creek, two unique experiences at the same address offer a perfect morning or afternoon of unhurried leisure, celebrating the simple pleasures in life.

Mountainview Alpaca Farm offers a family-friendly fun opportunity to walk, feed and cuddle with their team of cute alpacas, each with their own unique name and personality. You can even opt to feed and take these cute creatures for a walk beside the babbling creek, set amidst the tranquil grounds of Canungra Valley Vineyards. Run your hands over the soft, silky coat of your new furry friend, as they gently nibble food from your palm. Adults and children alike are sure to fall in love with these adorably animals!

On the same picturesque property, housed within a historic homestead, you’ll find O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard. Open seven days a week, this is an idyllic spot to enjoy wine-tasing on the sun-drenched deck, gorge on cheese boards and stone-baked pizzas or grab a tasty pre-packed picnic basket to enjoy on the 15-acre lush grounds.

These are just some of the unique treasures you’ll find hidden in the hinterland.

Accessibility – Overview and Tamborine Mountain

Within less than an hours’ drive from Surfers Paradise, you can surround yourself in the serenity of the magical Gold Coast hinterland.

Public transport options to and around the hinterland are limited. However, tour companies such as Southern Cross Tours offer excellent options for exploring the region, complete with audio commentary and intriguing local insights.

At Tamborine Mountain, Cedar Creek walking track to the lookout is a Grade 1 track suitable for strollers and assisted wheelchair access. However, the track from the lookout to the rock pools contains many steps, and is not suitable for those with limited mobility. There are toilets and picnic areas accessible for wheelchair users with assistance at Cedar Creek, The Knoll and Witches Falls, within the Tamborine National Park. Please note there is limited parking at Cedar Creek, and the picnic area can become boggy after rain.

Accessibility – Springbrook and Lamington National Park

When planning a visit to Springbrook National Park, be sure to check out the free MyRanger app containing park information, interactive maps and guided tours. Mobile reception is very limited in many areas, so it’s best to download the app ahead of time.

The Natural Bridge Circuit is a 1-kilometre, Grade 2 track which, if travelled in the suggested clockwise direction, involves many steps before reaching the cave. However, by travelling in an anti-clockwise direction and returning the same way, you’ll travel a far gentler path which is more accessible for those with limited motility. This route is step-free as far as the bridge over the creek, but not into the cave.

Springbrook’s Best of All Lookout track is a narrow asphalt path which slopes consistently downwards. Surfaces may be uneven, and two small steps at the very end of the path lead to the lookout’s viewing platform.

The Centenary track in Lamington National Park is a Grade 1 track suitable for wheelchair users with some assistance. It starts at the Python Rock and Morans Falls trailhead, 125 metres from the Green Mountains day-use area.

The Border Track has two trailheads—at the Green Mountains and Binna Burra upper day-use areas. Only the first 700 metres of the Border Track from the trailhead at the Green Mountains day-use area is accessible for wheelchairs with assistance. The remaining track is no suitable for wheelchair access.

There are wheelchair-accessible toilet facilities at the Green Mountains day-use and at the national park’s Information Centre located in the Binna Burra section. The Binna Burra upper and lower day-use areas have wheelchair-accessible picnic tables.