Whether you’re basing yourself in Brisbane for a short or long holiday, there’s a multitude of interesting destinations within a short drive away. For a change of pace or scenery, you don’t have to go far to wind up somewhere new and different, be it a forest, mountain or beach. Here are some ideas to inspire you to jump in a Brisbane Airport car rental and hit the road.
Mooloolaba
A drive further up the Sunshine Coast will bring you to Mooloolaba. This laid back beachy destination is the perfect place to wind back. Sunbathe on the pristine sands, head out into the surf and indulge your palate at one of the local cafes and restaurants at the end of your outing.
Bribie Island
An island excursion might be just what the doctor ordered. Cross the Bribie Bridge and discover the hidden charms of this island. The calm waters are ideal for swimming or kayaking while those with an appetite for more excitement will find plenty of boating and fishing opportunities.
Cruise the amazing Pumicestone Passage, which houses an astonishing array of wildlife including turtles and dugong. Go bird spotting along the beaches – more than 300 species visit the island every year.
Mt Tamborine
An hour south of Brisbane but still inland, you’ll find Mt Tamborine, a hidden gem in the Gold Coast hinterland. There are so many easy walking tracks to explore the rainforest by, most of which just take a few hours. Or take the Skywalk option, 35 metres above the ground. Look for colourful exotic birds, fascinating flora, and glow worms. Tropical peace and tranquility awaits.
Glass House Mountains
An hour north of Brisbane, you’ll come to the Glass House Mountains, volcanic peaks that tower above the surrounding landscapes. As well as walking tracks, there are climbing and abseiling opportunities here. The Glass House Mountains were named by Captain James Cook as he sailed north up the coast of what is now Queensland, because they reminded him of huge glass furnaces back in his native Yorkshire.
Mt Glorious and Mt Nebo
Feeling the urge to breathe fresh clean mountain air? Mt Nebo and Mt Glorious are about an hour’s drive from Brisbane. You’ll drive through the bush lands of Brisbane Forest Park and the imposing D’Aguilar Ranges along the way; Jollys Lookout offers a great view over the valleys.
