Brisbane Region Guides Attractions Events in Queensland

Amity Point is the smallest of three townships located on stunning North Stradbroke Island, one of the largest sand islands in the world. Located off the coast of Brisbane, the island can be accessed via a regular ferry service departing from mainland Cleveland.

Amity Point is known for its charming, village atmosphere and its superb location, perched on the northern tip of the island. The small hamlet is surrounded by tropical rainforests and white sandy beaches lapped by the crystal clear waters of the ocean and bay. Flinders Beach to the east of Amity Point and the Wanga Wallen Bank, to the south, are some of the most pristine sections of coastline in Australia.

Water sports are popular in the area with many great spots to sail, fish, kayak or swim. During winter, nearby Point Lookout is considered one of the best places in the country to watch the whales on their slow migration north.

Within the small community of Amity Point itself, you will find some shops, cafes and restaurants and conveniences including a jetty and post office.

There are a range of accommodation options in Amity Point to suit all budgets. Waterfront cabins, budget units, cottages, bungalows and houses are all available for short term hire. Foreshore campsites are popular but can only be accessed by four-wheel drive and permits are required.

The small village of Aratula, at the foot of Cunningham’s Gap in South East Queensland, has long served as a resting place for weary travellers crossing the Great Dividing Range. The town offers a range of accommodation options including caravan parks and motels.

Aratula is surrounded by unspoiled natural areas including the Moogerah Peaks National Park and Main Rain National Park.

Located in the Fassifern Valley, the four peaks of Moogerah have been carved from volcanic rock and the inaccessibility of the area has spared the natural vegetation from clearing by European settlers. The Park shelters eucalypt forest, sheer cliffs, and patches of rainforest. The cliffs on Mount French are a favourite with rock climbers, but not for the inexperienced or faint of heart. Palm Gorge on nearby Mount Greville in home to a nearly pure strand of Picabeen Palms.

On the southern edge of Moogerah Peaks National Park lies Lake Moogerah, a popular spot for waterskiing, jet skiing, boating and fishing. The local council runs a caravan park on the shores of the lake and other facilities include electric and wood barbecues, two boat ramps, children’s playground, kiosk and kayak hire.

To the west of Aratula lies the Main Range National Park, home of plants found nowhere else in the world. The Park is part of the Scenic Rim and offers many walking tracks that explore the rainforest and escarpments. Along the way you’ll enjoy glorious sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

By road, Aratula is 30 minutes’ drive south west of Ipswich and an hour from Brisbane.

The township of Beachmere, tucked away in the northern section of Moreton Bay, is a quiet yet pleasant hideaway.

Its location just above Deception Bay, where the mouth of the Caboolture River flows into the bay, makes it an ideal spot for boating and fishing. Public boat ramps can be accessed either on the river or on the bay itself. For those without their own, boats are also available for hire in Beachmere.

Kids will enjoy watching millions of tiny soldier crabs scuttling along the mud flats at low tide. There is a skate park located in Beachmere too, where children can ride bikes or skate. Further inland on the Caboolture River is a marina and chandlery.

Beaudesert is a quaint rural town situated in scenic mountain hinterland, less than an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Often enjoyed as a convenient stop-off point on the Mt Lindesay Highway, Beaudesert is a buzzing destination in its own right.

The ever-popular country markets here teem with local produce and high quality craftwork. Galleries display the well-respected works of the local art community.

A smattering of high quality restaurants serve exquisite meals, while a growing number of boutique vineyards complete the picture of a food lovers’ paradise. There is also a good selection of boutique accommodation that's perfect for a romantic getaway.

The Beaudesert area is also well known for its majestic national parks and rainforests, some of which are World Heritage listed. Check out Mt Tamborine, Mt Lindesay, Mt Barney, Mt Ernest, Mt May and Mt Maroon. Their spectacular scenery makes bushwalking a popular activity.

Of course, a leisurely drive out on the winding country roads is not to be missed. Stop at a country pub for lunch; the food is often as generous as the hospitality.

Nestled in a small parcel of land surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, Binna Burra, is a charming area shrouded in lush, ancient rainforest.

The name, Binna Burra, is an Aboriginal word meaning "where the beech tree grows," referring to a stand of ancient Antarctic Beech in the nearby rainforest.

Binna Burra is a great starting point for numerous nature walks through the pristine Lamington National Park. Explore caves once used by the local indigenous people for shelter and cooking. Marvel at thundering waterfalls shrouded in mist. Feel the temperature drop and the sun disappear as you descend into the rainforest canopy.

The blue and white spiny Lamington Crayfish can sometimes be seen in rock pools, but more often met casually strolling down the walking tracks during wet weather. Keep a look-out for koalas high in the trees as well as small pademelon kangaroos, goannas and more than 600 bird species.

Facilities at Binna Burra include a visitors’ centre, cafe, a guesthouse, campsites, safari tents, powered sites, picnic grounds, and an environmental education centre.

Founded in 1933, Binna Burra’s Mountain Lodge is one of Australia's longest established nature-based resorts, named one of the world's top 10 eco-lodges and green hotels. The original rustic log cabins have been updated with modern amenities, but televisions, phones, clocks and radios have deliberately been left behind.

Binna Burra is approximately 90 minutes’ drive south of Brisbane via Beechmont. The road is unsuitable for caravans.

Just one hour from downtown Brisbane, located in the heart of the Scenic Rim is beautiful Boonah, one of the most picturesque areas in South East Queensland.

The superb scenery of rugged mountains and peaceful lakes allow for great scenic drives, horse riding, bushwalking, mountaineering, sky diving, gliding and water sports. The area boasts numerous picnic spots, country style accommodation, camping areas and seven National Parks that provide unsurpassed panoramas of Mount French, Mount Edwards, The Head, Mount Greville, Mount Maroon and Cunninghams and Spicers Gap.

Lovers of the great outdoors can escape the stress of the city in the idyllic setting of Lake Moogerah and Lake Maroon, ideal for camping and fast becoming Queensland's most popular place for sailing, fishing, water skiing, parasailing and paddle boating. The township of Boonah offers a range of shops and services along with that special brand of country hospitality that comes from taking time to enjoy life.

Best known as the home of Brisbane’s premier concert hall, entertainment centre and sporting complex, the suburb of Boondall is located approximately 20 minutes drive north-east of Brisbane’s city centre.

The suburb also harbours the Boondall Wetlands Park - an extensive system of important wetlands that partly encircles the Brisbane Entertainment Centre and Sports Complex.

The Entertainment Centre regularly hosts big name acts from overseas along with major shows and sporting events. Set beside a lake amongst the wetland paperbarks, the grounds of the Entertainment Centre are a great place for a picnic with barbeque facilities provided.

For something a little different, at the Sports Complex you can strap on a pair of skates and take to the ice!

At the Boondall Wetlands Park visitors can learn more about the area at the purpose-built Environmental Centre. At the Centre you can sign up for a range of activities including cycling adventures, guided walks, arts, crafts and indigenous cultural workshops. Winding through the wetlands are a system of boardwalks that allow visitors a closer look at this fragile and unique environment.

Black ducks and wood ducks are regularly seen in the Wetlands. From September to March, the Wetlands become the home of migratory wading birds from as far away as Alaska, China and Japan. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the walking path up to Anne Beasley’s lookout. The walk is steep but the views are sensational.

There are several hotels and motels in Boondall with a wide range of dining options in the suburbs nearby.

Naturally beautiful, Bribie Island and its surrounding waters is a true showpiece of the Moreton Bay area.

Bribie is the northern-most of the islands in Moreton Bay. It's the only island connected to the mainland by bridge, allowing easy access.

A haven for those seeking a sea change, young families, water sport enthusiasts and nature lovers, Bribie offers a compact range of experiences for all age groups. Extensive national parks, (some with camping facilities) a choice of surf beaches or calmer protected beaches, and some of the best fishing to be found. There's also a good range of restaurants and accommodation to make Bribie an ideal destination for a short break or day trip.

The ecologically important Pumicestone Passage, formed by the channel which runs between Bribie Island and the Caboolture coastline, is a protected marine park and safe haven for dugongs, turtles, dolphins, and a diverse birdlife and extensive network of mangrove swamps. The Bribie Island Ferryman offers excellent tours of the Passage with fascinating commentary along the way.

The picturesque foreshore at Bongaree is an excellent spot for a family outing with lots of picnic facilities, ample shady areas, boat ramps and calm water for kiddies to splash around in. It’s also easy and inexpensive to hire small boats on Bribie.

For the more adventurous, head over to the eastern side of the island to Woorim Beach. This patrolled surf beaches is one of the closest to Brisbane. It's a popular spot for swimmers and board riders. You can even learn to surf at the surf school located here. Or just enjoy the surf view from the Surf Club on the foreshore.

Bribie Island is about an hour and twenty minutes' drive from the Brisbane CBD.

You know you've arrived in Brisbane once you catch a glimpse of the iconic Story Bridge as a CityCat glides underneath, creating glistening ripples in the winding Brisbane River. The city's most recognisable natural landmark takes centre stage and is lined with Brisbane's finest alfresco restaurants and sophisticated bars, offering unmasked views and complimenting the city's celebrated outdoor lifestyle.

If you can tear yourself away from the cool riverside breezes, you'll find yourself in the bustling Queen Street Mall, the shopping strip famous for its 700 plus specialty stores, free live entertainment, restaurants, cafes and bars.

Take a break in the inner-city sanctuary of the Botanic Gardens, home to lush stretches of green grass and exotic and native plants. Relax at Roma Street Parklands, the world's largest subtropical garden in a city centre.

Getting around the city is an effortless journey due to the compact nature of the Central Business District. With major attractions, restaurants and hotels clustered around the river peninsula, Brisbane is most easily explored on foot with the streets laid out in a grid-like system, leaving little chance for disorientation.

Brisbane is a vibrant capital city leisure destination, offering a wide range of holiday attractions, events and cultural activities, green spaces and natural wonders, world-class exhibitions, and an emerging live music scene.

Scenic Rim
Follow the changing landscape west and you'll find yourself in the Scenic Rim, Brisbane's world-heritage listed backyard, home to lush rainforests, spectacular mountain ranges and ancient landforms. Food and wine, romantic escapes, camping, bushwalking, country pubs, art, history and adventures are all here, tied together by the landscape and the beautiful towns and villages dotted throughout.

Country Valleys
The rolling hills and green open spaces of the Country Valleys provide postcard perfect views of endless horizons, sleepy towns and pristine lakes making it hard to believe you are only an hour away from the lights of the big city.

Ipswich
Ipswich attracts visitors to its vast green spaces, heritage buildings and growing cosmopolitan dining options, .

Moreton Bay and Islands
Explore the aquatic playground and marine sanctuary that is Moreton Bay and Islands, encompassing 125 kilometres of stunning blue waters. Brimming with natural wonders and home to two of the world's largest sand islands - Moreton Island and North Stradbroke Island - this diverse paradise is famous for its white sandy beaches, rugged coastlines and array of outdoor activities.

The many bayside villages in the area are a mere 25 kilometres from Brisbane Central Business District and provide a charming community of restaurants, cafes, a winery commanding expansive bay views, independent art galleries, museums and bayside picnic spots. For a special and unique treat, visit between June and October to see pods of whales putting on a show.

With features reminiscent of an old fishing town, the quaint riverside suburbs of Bulimba and Hawthorne combine village charm with contemporary elegance. Oxford Street pulses during the day with designer clad mums and bubs spending time between shopping in the eclectic boutiques and enjoying cappuccinos in the chic cafes.

The elaborate timber grandstand in Bulimba Memorial Park is as endearing as the old-style heritage ferry terminal that stands by the river to welcome visitors and the historic sandstone Bulimba House, built in 1850, proudly watches over the hilly streets.

Bulimba and Hawthorne are also home to classic old cinemas, art galleries, book stores, alfresco eateries and beautifully renovated Queenslanders, making this former sugar cane and pineapple growing district a great place to visit and explore.

Just under 60 minutes from downtown Brisbane, Caboolture is the gateway to the Sunshine Coast. White sandy beaches, stunning mountain scenery and charming country villages await visitors to the Caboolture Shire. With such diversity in lifestyle and scenic attractions, the Caboolture Shire has all the charm and character to delight visitors.

Caboolture is well known for skydiving and gliding at the town's main airfield. The nearby Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology houses a priceless collection of antiques and fine art from around the world with treasures spanning 250,000 years of history. Memories of a more recent bygone era will be rekindled with a visit to Caboolture's Historical Village with its collection of restored buildings.

Yet few attractions rival the splendour of Pumicestone Passage and the internationally recognised marine sanctuary off Bribie Island. It's home to dolphins, dugongs, turtles and more than 350 species of birdlife. An easy 20 minutes from Caboolture, Bribie Island is linked by bridge and is a popular tourist destination for its excellent fishing, surf beaches, National Parks and reserves.

Back on the mainland, the scenic areas of Woodford and Mount Mee, and the fishing communities of Donnybrook and Toorbul are just some of the attractive towns that abound with heritage and natural scenery.

The old saw-milling town of Canungra is the springboard to Lamington National Park and its popular mountain resorts.

Visitors can take a walk through the sawmill’s old tramway tunnel cut through sandstone, where the walls show the scars caused by logs jamming against them. The beautiful timbers used in the interior of St Luke's Church also bear testimony to Canungra’s timber heritage.

Now the town has become a haven for artists and craft-workers. View their work at local galleries and potteries and then sit back with a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes. And if your thoughts turn to adventure, learn to hang-glide, paraglide or take a horse trek through the picturesque Biddaddaba Valley.

Chermside is unofficially recognised as the mini CBD of Brisbane’s northern suburbs. The suburb is home to one of the largest shopping centres in the country, providing shop-a-holics with plenty of retail therapy. It was the first shopping mall to be built in Australia and is as popular now as it was when it first opened to great fanfare back in 1957.

The shopping centre contains hundreds of speciality stores as well as major national department chains. The latest Hollywood blockbuster can be caught at the huge cinema complex, and for lunch you’ll be spoilt for choice by a dizzying array of food outlets, restaurants and cafes.

Outside of the shopping centre, busy Gympie road also offers a great range of shops and stores to explore.

Chermside locals enjoy a large network of parklands along beautiful Downfall Creek. A system of bikeways and footpaths connect various areas and allow visitors to enjoy the pleasant surroundings at leisure. Good picnic and barbecue facilities are provided along with a pool, children’s playground and historic war memorials.

Chermside is just 10 minutes drive north of the Brisbane city centre with excellent public transport available. Accommodation options include hotels, motels and motor-inns.

The vibrant coastal village of Cleveland is a warm, friendly, cosmopolitan area brimming with plenty to see and do. There is an elegant marina, great places to eat and excellent facilities throughout the precinct. Once in Cleveland, that relaxed bayside feel is infectious.

Cleveland is the commercial hub of the Redland Bay region, and the launch point to North Stradbroke Island.

An important port for the Moreton Bay Settlement, Cleveland has many links to its colonial past preserved for visitors to enjoy today. History buffs will be keen to visit sites along Cleveland’s local Heritage Trail throughout the area. There are a number of historical landmarks to visit which date back to the 1850s and 1860s.

Families will love Cleveland’s beautiful foreshore areas for picnics or barbecues and its many playgrounds to keep children happy! Public art and streetscapes add another dimension making this seaside village a truly lovely place to visit. Take a walk through the Black Swamp Wetlands with its abundant bird and wildlife, and watch thousands of flying foxes fly over the area each night at dusk.

A short drive to Cleveland Point will reward you with great views of Moreton Bay.Or check out the Cleveland Markets held every Sunday on Bloomfield Street, featuring local arts and crafts. Art lovers should also visit Redland Art Gallery.

Ray Bay Harbourside is a major dining, entertainment and boating hub. Enjoy local seafood and beautiful bay views. Here you can also charter a boat to go deep sea fishing or sailing. And for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat, head to the Harbour Day Spa and choose from its extensive menu of luxury treatments.

Cleveland is just over 50 minutes' drive from the Brisbane CBD.

With its sprawling expanse of bayside walkways and bikeways, plentiful parks and picnic facilities and designated off-leash areas... Clontarf is an ideal place to bring the family, including the dog, to enjoy a day out by the water.

Clontarf is a charming seaside area at the southernmost part of the Redcliffe Peninsula. A walk or cycle across the old Hornibrook Highway bridge, which is closed to traffic, at either sunrise or sunset is a must.

Clontarf is renowned for its many pelicans that reside in the area and can be seen perched on the light poles along the bridge. Pelican Park is named in honour of these coastal creatures and at around 10.00 a.m. each morning local volunteers feed the pelicans and provide an educational insight into these amazing sea birds.

The area is also home to a large Visitor Information Centre, childrens playground area complete with a dedicated swing for people with a disability, and popular boat ramp.

Clontarf is also well known for kite flying, with conditions on the esplanade so favourable that an annual kite festival ‘Kitefest’ is hosted here in May attracting participants from across Australia.

For something a little different, take a behind the scenes tour of some of the factory outlets based in the commercial precinct. Products include food items, sheepskin products, plants, luggage, furniture and even perfumes. You’re bound to pick up an interesting bargain here!

Coochiemudlo Island is a small piece of paradise that sits like a pearl in the shell of Moreton Bay. Its relatively small size is one of its most endearing features, as the island is easily explored in a day. But don't rush, because taking it easy is what Coochiemudlo is all about. You'll find stepping off the ferry onto the island's shores is a little like stripping back the years and landing in a more relaxed and unhurried time. It really is a place for everyone who enjoys the pleasures of kicking back and leaving the world behind.

The island is ringed by more than four kilometres of beautiful safe beaches, making it the perfect family destination. Plus, there's so much to do. Take a stroll along one of the beaches and enjoy the peace, or maybe play a game of beach cricket with the kids. Take a dip in the clear and refreshing sea after lazing in the sun for a while. Do a spot of fishing and then cook your catch on one of the free electric barbecues. Sit back with a cool drink in hand and watch the sail boats cruise on by. If you are feeling more energetic, there are tennis courts, croquet green, a cricket field and a golf course to enjoy.

But whatever you do, and whatever you get up to, just be sure you leave on the latest ferry you can.

Coochiemudlo can be accessed by ferry from Victoria Point, about an hour's drive east from the Brisbane CBD.

With the serene Coomera River as its backdrop, Coomera and nearby Oxenford are home to the Gold Coast’s famous theme park attractions. With more fun than you can pack into a single day, these theme parks offer adrenalin-pumping rides, gravity-defying rollercoasters, hair-raising water slides, electrifying stunt performances and exotic animals from around the world.

If that’s not enough action, in Coomera you can also get a thrill on a go kart track, take a scenic helicopter flight or kayak down the beautiful Coomera River.

The gentler side of Coomera can be found on an Aussie farm tour where you can see stockmen at work, feed the kangaroos and watch the wintery coat being shorn off a sheep. The local winery offers tours and you can learn to sail on the river or play a round of golf.

For a holiday with a difference Coomera has house boats for hire, offering a view of the Gold Coast waterways seen by only a select few. Drop a line over the side and you might just enjoy fresh mangrove jack, flathead, bream or trevally for lunch!

Coomera is also home to the largest Marina in the southern hemisphere where you can enjoy superb dining as you gaze out over the water at luxurious yachts and leisure craft. The Marina is adjacent to a major boat building precinct specialising in the manufacture of larger vessels and enormous super yachts.

Coomera is handily located just 45 minutes drive from Brisbane and a half hour’s drive from Coolangatta airport on the M1 motorway. Accommodation in the area includes caravan parks, cabins, self-contained units, holiday rentals and motor-inns.

On Brisbane's south-eastern outskirts is the laid-back community of Daisy Hill.

The bushland area between Daisy Hill and Redland Bay is important koala habitat, with exactly the right conditions to support a thriving community. Fittingly, Daisy Hill is home to an educational Koala Centre.

At the Koala Centre, you can see koalas up close and learn all about these unique Australian marsupials. Wander through the Centre and learn all about the fascinating life cycle of the Koala and how they've adapted to the changing Australian environment. During the school holidays, the Centre also offers ranger-led activities. The Koala Centre is part of the Daisy Hill Conservation Park protecting an area of eucalypt forest and paperbark wetlands.

Signposted walking tracks take visitors through the scenic area with mountain-biking and horse riding allowed. The Park is home to a community of approximately 130 koalas, so if you’re lucky and you stay alert, you just might see one of these cute, cuddly critters in the wild.

The Park is also a great place for a breakfast or lunch with sheltered picnic areas provided.

Daisy Hill is located just off the Pacific Motorway, 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Brisbane and 15 minutes from Logan. Units and motel-style accommodation can be found at nearby Springwood.

Tucked away in the foothills of World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, is a spot straight from a picture-book, Darlington Park. The area is part of South East Queensland’s beautiful Scenic Rim and is a great base from which to explore this unique and spectacular part of the world.

Caravan, motorhome and camping enthusiasts regularly flock to the excellent camp grounds situated on banks of the picturesque Albert River. Toilets and free gas barbecues are provided, however there are no showers or electricity and visitors must bring their own water and firewood.

The area also has several quaint bed-and-breakfasts, farm-stays and romantic cottage-style accommodations set against the spectacular scenery of the surrounding mountains and rainforest.

A walk to the headwaters of Albert River rewards with beautiful scenery. The river is stocked with bass and cod and a catch release system maintains good numbers. Other activities available in the area include horse riding and four wheel drive tours of the least inaccessible but most beautiful parts of the dramatic landscape.

From Darlington Park you can explore the ancient world of Lamington National Park, O Reilly’s and neighbouring Lost World Valley. Walking tracks will take you through thick lush rainforest to spectacular gorges, thundering waters and breath-taking scenery.
Darlington Park is just 90 minutes’ drive south of Brisbane via Beaudesert.

Good old fashioned country values are dear to the heart of the residents of Dayboro. Filled with generous warm hearted locals, a day trip here is always a pleasure.

The scenic drive to Dayboro makes it worth the visit alone. Located less than an hour from the Brisbane Central Business District, take the drive through Samford and enjoy the mountain views.

In the township, make your first stop at Hay Cottage in the centre of town, which provides tourist information as well as selling arts and crafts. There are numerous tasty dining options in Dayboro, including historic pubs filled with the atmosphere of yesteryear.

Activities available in Dayboro include horse riding and four-wheel drive adventures, and leisurely pursuits include vineyards, feeding the deer and lamas or visiting a number of highly original art galleries and craft shops. And at the end of the day, you can even take a cool dip in a quiet hidden creek.

Around Dayboro, there is excellent bushwalking in the Mt Mee State Forest, where there are good camping and Picnic Facilities.

The curiously named town of Deception Bay in Caboolture Shire lies approximately 30 kilometres north of Brisbane, at the southern end of the bay of the same name. It is called Deception Bay because when discovered by Lieutenant John Oxley in 1823, he thought the bay was a river because of its unusual shallowness.

Once rich pastoral and grazing land, the area is now an established and growing residential area. Deception Bay’s sheltered location and access to both river and bay makes it an excellent spot for recreational boating and fishing.

A visit to Cottonwood Walk is a must-do when in Deception Bay. This beautiful area along the esplanade incorporates timber boardwalks, barbecues, viewing platforms and picnic facilities. With glorious views of the bay, it is a perfect spot for a family picnic, with much to see and do for both adults and children.

At low tide, explore the mudflats towards the north east corner and see if you can find the two unusual baths that have been excavated out of bed rock. Named Bancroft Bath No1 and No2, these curious structures were created in the late 1800s by a local resident Joseph Bancroft as a type of hydrotherapy unit, for his sick wife to bathe in the salt water.

Families will enjoy the public swimming pool complex which features a 50 metre Olympic size pool, wading pool, enclosed heated lesson pool, toddlers pool and play area. It's attended by trained staff.

There is also a BMX and skate park in the area where the kids can let loose and practice their latest tricks on wheels.

The Brisbane suburb of Eagle Farm is synonymous with horse racing due to the nearby location of the Eagle Farm and Doomben racetracks. During the winter racing season Eagle Farm comes alive with colourfully attired race-goers and jockeys along with frisky race horses and their nervous trainers.

The Royal Brisbane Golf Course is nestled on the banks of the Brisbane River on the southern side of Eagle Farm. The course is known as one of Australia’s finest and has hosted several Australian Open Championships and Australian PGA Championships.


Visitors to Eagle Farm will find good accommodation in the neighbouring suburbs of Hamilton and Ascot. Two of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs, Hamilton and Ascot are known for their grand hilltop mansions, bustling restaurant precincts and charming leafy tree scapes. Accommodation options include quality hotels, motels, units, bungalows, bed-and-breakfasts and villas.

Eagle Farm is situated at the northern end of the Gateway Bridge, approximately 20 minutes drive from the Brisbane city centre and only five minutes drive from the Brisbane Airport.

The lively adventure town of Esk – a leisurely 80 minutes' drive from downtown Brisbane - is a must for anyone who loves to get outdoors and get active. With its stunning location in the middle of the Valley of the Lakes, it’s no wonder that all kinds of watersports are popular here. Skiing, sailing and white water kayaking are all well catered for, as are fishing, canoeing and swimming.

But it’s not just the water that people are diving into in Esk. Adventure is everywhere, from abseiling, mountain bike riding or tandem sky diving 12,500 feet above the valley. Or, for something just a little more sedate, climb aboard a camel safari and plod your way through the bush. You can even stay overnight at a stockman's camp and really get back to nature.

For something completely different, make sure you visit the ostrich and deer farms, and get a close up view of these magnificent creatures. And if you just can’t leave the need to shop behind, there are numerous craft and antique shops and galleries dotted around the region.

And as you would expect of a region where there is so much going on, there are plenty of motels, hotels, camping areas, caravan parks and farm stays to rest at after a big day out.

Cradled in the South East Queensland’s beautiful ‘Valley of the Lakes’ Fernvale is a quaint, picturesque village on the road to Esk.

Fernvale is well known for it colourful Sunday markets, with people travelling from as far afield as Brisbane and Ipswich to enjoy the relaxed ambience and to snap up a bargain. The town also has a number of unique art and craft shops to tempt those looking for something a little different.

Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, the tiny hamlet is a popular spot for fishing and camping and a welcome rest stop for people travelling to Esk and nearby Wivenhoe Dam.

Lake Wivenhoe (or Wivenhoe Dam) provides the main water supply to the city of Brisbane and holds twice as much water as Sydney Harbour. It’s also a popular destination for fishermen and boat enthusiasts with a boat ramp and boat hire available at the lake.

There are good camping facilities on the shores of the lake along with barbecues, a children’s playground and kiosk.

Fernvale is located in the scenic Brisbane Valley just 45 minutes’ drive north-west of Brisbane.

Just five kilometres south of the Warrego Highway, and around 40 minutes from Ipswich, lies the tiny but interesting town of Forest Hill.

It happens to be a town where much of yesteryear still survives by way of two beautiful heritage-listed pubs, a craft shop, antiques and collectables centre, two cafes and more. This little town is well worth a day trip.

Moreover, it is on the Cobb and Co Tourist route, so it is little wonder it has something for the history buffs as well as those that appreciate the fact that in Forest Hill the things of yesteryear mingle nicely with the things of today.

As an alternative to the hurly-burly of the highway, take the more leisurely and more scenic route from Ipswich to Forest Hill via Rosewood and Laidley.

Live. Loud. Proud

Fortitude Valley is a contradiction in itself, raw yet sophisticated, where elegance and style meets grungy and offbeat. A place where heritage listed properties proudly stand amongst new and contemporary structures.

The Valley, as it's affectionately known by locals, was Australia's first dedicated entertainment district and continues to be a hive of activity, alive with the sounds of people and music. Live music thrives in venues such as The Zoo and Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts and international DJs are drawn to the super clubs and chic bars.

The impressive Chinatown Mall is a hub of exotic Chinese supermarkets, traditional restaurants serving authentic Yum Cha and trendy markets. Explore the quirky laneways where shopping enthusiasts can pick up unique fashion pieces at the retro boutiques and designer dress shops.

Fortitude Valley is also made up of a number of smaller lifestyle strips, offering a mix of restaurants and shopping in atmospheric settings. The Emporium complex channels a European village feel, James Street showcases Australian fashion labels and Brunswick Street is home to a multicultural assortment of dining options.

The fertile Lockyer Valley of South East Queensland is home to the rich farming region of Gatton Shire, just 60 minutes from Brisbane.

Known for its spectacular scenic backdrop of steep hills and the mountains of The Great Dividing Range, Gatton is a fast growing region that has maintained its natural beauty and charm. The Gatton Historical Village is keeping local history alive, preserving heritage buildings and memorabilia on the southern border of Lake Apex Park.

There’s much to do here, including a highlight for train enthusiasts - the Spring Bluff Railway, a heritage listed site where you can relax and picnic in the landscaped gardens and learn about its colourful history.

See the natural beauty of the shire at Lake Apex Park, a must for bird watchers and explore the Aboriginal carvings while you picnic by Blackduck Creek. Also visit Glen Rock, the new regional park, comprising of picnic and camping facilities, bush walks, and swimming just 30 minutes from Gatton. For those who relish antique treasures, then the picturesque township of Withcott has a number of shops to browse.

From bushwalking on the scenic mountain trails and exploring heritage treasures, Gatton Shire is a great way to experience a beautiful part of Queensland's South East.

Serene and tranquil, Godwin Beach in the northern reaches of Deception Bay is one of the best vantage points to view the entire expanse of land forming its curved coastline.

This remarkable quietness also makes Godwin Beach an ideal spot for birdwatchers or wildlife photographers. Observe the abundant birdlife that flock to the surrounding mangrove and mudflat areas, particularly at low tide times, or head to the nearby Nature Reserve where kangaroos and other wildlife can be viewed in their natural habitat.

Being a little out-of-the-way also appeals to those who like to go fishing or crabbing. Plenty of bream, whiting and flathead are caught in the water around this area. You don’t have to compete for water space and you might convince one of the regulars to reveal their secret fishing spot!

The scenic beauty of Bribie Island is only five minutes' drive away.

The tiny hamlet of Grandchester is located in the beautiful Lockyer Valley between Ipswich and Toowoomba.

The pride and joy of Grandchester is the Grandchester Railway Station, built in 1865. Listed by the National Trust, the Station is significant as the terminus for the first railway line built in Queensland. Running from Ipswich to Grandchester the railway was also the first narrow gauge mainline railway in the world.

Before the construction of the railway line, Grandchester was little more than a whistle-stop for travellers and was known as Bigges Camp. Queensland’s Governor at the time, felt that a place at the centre of such a significant historical event deserved a more dignified name, and so renamed the site Grandchester.

Once a month the locals get into costume, fire up a large model train, and take visitors for a ride around the site.

Not far from the railway station, the historic buildings of an old homestead have been restored and converted into a luxury resort – right in the heart of a working cattle station. Here amidst the clean country air, guests can experience the workings of a real farm.

The nearby villages of Rosewood and Laidley are of equal historical significance with heritage buildings lining the streets and charming aspects making them well worth a look.

Grandchester is located approximately 45 minutes west of Brisbane and 20 minutes from Ipswich.

The rolling hills and green open spaces of the Country Valleys provide postcard perfect views of endless horizons, sleepy towns and pristine lakes making it hard to believe you are only an hour away from the lights of the big city.

Horse riding enthusiasts will relish the tracks that weave and climb throughout the pastures and hillsides of Esk and lovers of water sports will find it hard pressed to stay away from the lure of the giant lakes within Somerset and Wivenhoe. You can also go hiking, mountain climbing, abseiling and experience some of the best skydiving in the Southern Hemisphere.

For those wanting to extend their stay to include the award winning boutique wineries or to sift through the many antique shops, there are a range of beautifully preserved homesteads, Bed and Breakfasts and mountain retreats to relax in at the end of a busy day.

Flowering poinciana trees line the streets of Ascot and Hamilton, providing a canopy of red against a backdrop of gracious old homes with their sweeping verandas and white picket fences. Racecourse Road is the central spine of the area, home to fine dining, sophisticated cafes and boutiques and on race days is a promenade for fashionistas and traditional race-goers as they stroll towards Eagle Farm Racecourse.

Towards the river, Portside Wharf Cruise Terminal sits amongst trendy riverside apartments and is a welcome port for world-class restaurants, gourmet delights, designer fashion, weekend markets and an art-house cinema.

Ascot and Hamilton are two riverside suburbs with some of the most amazing views over the river and city.

The quiet hamlet of Helidon lies in the picturesque Lockyer Valley, approximately one hour west of Brisbane and just 15 minutes east of Toowoomba.

For many years Helidon has been famous for its natural mineral springs prized for their great healing and therapeutic properties. The local Aborigines bathed in the spring water to ward off illness and after European settlement, the springs attracted the frail and the infirm from far and wide. Arthritis, rheumatism, muscular aches, pains, stress, and a host of other ailments are said to be relieved by soaking in the warm, mineral-rich water.

Stay at a nearby health resort to get the most of your visit to the natural springs. You’ll find quality motel-style accommodation, saunas, barbecue and gymnasium facilities and an on-site restaurant.

The grand old city of Toowoomba is just 15 minutes’ drive up the range and offers a host of things to see and do. Not far from Helidon you’ll also find wineries, historic homesteads, national parks and a host of scenic drives.

Accommodation in the Helidon area includes spring resorts, bed-and-breakfasts, hotels and motels.

As the birthplace of rail in Queensland, Ipswich has a proud and rich history that dates back to the days of the convicts and colonialism of the 1820s. Attracting visitors to its vast green spaces, heritage buildings and growing cosmopolitan dining options, Ipswich's urban charm holds an ever-present appeal.

Brisbane Street, in the heart of the city, has one of the longest stretches of heritage facade in Australia and is home to the Old Flour Mill building, built in 1902 and now a quaint cafe that also offers antiques and collectables.

Retrace the journey of the first Cobb and Co Stagecoach or take control of train simulators and relive the romance of rail. Take to the skies with a scenic helicopter flight or wander the expansive Queen Park in the city centre.

Whether you're looking for family friendly fun, outdoor adventure, adrenaline action, pure indulgence or a glimpse back to bygone days, Ipswich is well worth a day trip or weekend getaway.

Adventures and Vistas and Kangaroo Point.

Few other suburbs can match Kangaroo Point for its views and natural beauty. Standing atop the ancient cliffs, the unmasked views of the river, city and mountains show Brisbane at its best whether it's as the sun is rising or as the city skyline lights up in the evening. Enthusiasts can climb the iconic Story Bridge, built in 1940 and towering 80 metres above the river.

However you decide to arrive at the foot of the cliffs - on foot, by City Cat or for the more adventurous, via abseiling rope - you will be greeted by parklands, bikeways, playgrounds and riverside picnic and barbecue spots. Stop in for a drink at the heritage listed Story Bridge Hotel, get your feet tapping at the Brisbane Jazz Club or jump in a kayak for a paddle down the river at Riverlife Adventure Centre.

Karragarra is the smallest of the populated bay islands, nestled between Russell and Macleay Islands in Moreton Bay, and has a very small permanent population. It is a very tranquil, peaceful place to visit.

‘Karra’, as it is affectionately known has no store or retail facilities – one of the secrets to remaining a quiet and peaceful place to be enjoyed by visitors looking for seclusion and tranquility.

There are some public amenities for visitors to enjoy – Karragarra has a beach with a jetty for mooring boats and fishing. The beach sits in a beautiful secluded position with an enclosed swimming area and free electric barbecues and undercover seating for the rare rainy days. Take a leisurely walk through the rainforest, or along the esplanade.

Ferry access is from Redland Bay.

Get Creatively Unleashed at Kelvin Grove.

Kelvin Grove is no ordinary university village. 'Communiversity' as it is known, is home to the
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Creative Industries department and integrates live performance spaces, business, enterprise and research capabilities with the student culture and the energy and vibe they bring to the area. This campus is credited for launching the careers of many famous faces in fashion, dance, music, visual arts, journalism, film and television and animation, nurturing and inspiring each creative mind that comes through the door.

This modern and contemporary urban environment was custom made for Brisbane's creative community with a string of cafes, restaurants and bars, colourful weekend Farmer's Markets and the purpose built theatre-in-the-round, La Boite.

If getting away from it all and relaxing in the countryside is what you love, then you can’t miss Kilcoy. Just over an hour’s drive from downtown Brisbane, here you'll find a landscape characterised by rolling hills, sprawling pastures and shimmering lakes.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll discover a rustic and rural aspect that is both engagingly rugged and beautiful. Extensive forests and national parks surround the township, and at its fringes lay the picturesque Mount Kilcoy and Sandy Creek Valleys. A must-do is the scenic drive to Jimna to visit the striking Peach Trees Camping Ground. Also popular is a visit to Yowie Park for a picnic amongst the weeping willows and water birds, overlooking the stunning Greensill Lake.

But it’s not all about the views in Kilcoy – there are plenty of activities in the region as well. Fresh water fishing, sailing, waterskiing and canoeing are possible on nearby Lake Somerset. Local wineries are open for tastings, and four wheel drive enthusiasts will revel in the challenging Landcruiser Mountain Park, 22 kilometres north of Jimna.

Just 60 minutes from downtown Brisbane, Laidley greets visitors with good old-fashioned hospitality in some of the richest farmlands and most magnificent scenery. Imagine an early morning hot air balloon flight over picturesque farmlands of the Lockyer Valley or an exhilarating skydive for the more adventurous.

There are so many attractions for visitors to enjoy, from the preserved heritage of the pioneer village, to the local arts and crafts plus the region's oldest home, Das Neumann Haus.

The bed and breakfasts, motel, country style hotels, backpacker hostels, caravan and camping grounds and offer visitors a wide choice of accommodation for that relaxing country break.

To appreciate this beautiful region, take a scenic drive through the Laidley Valley via Mulgowie Road, or Laidley Creek Road and gaze across the colourful landscape of the valley from the region's two lookouts. Relaxing by the bank of Lake Dyer (Bill Gunn Dam), or picnicking in the Lions Park and viewing Narda Lagoon from the suspension bridge, is an idyllic getaway. Laidley has so much to share, and boasts the seventh most fertile valley in the world - all an hour's drive from Brisbane.

For one island to be known as 'the treasure of Moreton Bay' it is quite a feat – considering the wonderful islands in this region. Yet, Lamb Island legitimately claims the title.

A tiny island of only two kilometres long, it is the second smallest of the Southern Bay Islands, and has a beautiful natural environment including a small rainforest. Sea eagles are known to nest here. It is a great place for taking it easy – walks on the beach, sandcombing or picnicking. There is a swimming enclosure towards the northern end of the island on the eastern side, and some very good bed and breakfast accommodations. A great place for a quiet getaway – and not far from Brisbane.

Access to Lamb Island is by ferry from Redland Bay.

Lytton, near the mouth of the Brisbane River and Port of Brisbane, is one of the most historically significant areas of Brisbane. The suburb is home to Fort Lytton, built as a first line naval defence between 1880 and 1881.

Constructed more than 30 years before the outbreak of World War One, Fort Lytton’s role was to protect the city and its shipping routes from naval invasion. One of the most well preserved forts of its kind in Australia, Fort Lytton is encircled by a water-filled moat, and is concealed behind large grassy ramparts. Hidden underground passages secretly connect different sections of the Fort and many of the original guns have been restored to working order. If you visit the Fort on special occasions you might be lucky enough to see a military re-enactment and hear the booming 64-pounder guns in action.

To get the most from your visit to the Fort join a guided tour and immerse yourself in Brisbane’s wartime history at the Fort Lytton museum.

Aside from its military importance, the Fort also claims a place in history as an airstrip once used by Australia's most famous aviator, Sir Charles Kingsford Smith.

Surrounded by scenic river views, Fort Lytton is a great place for a picnic and is just half an hour drive from the centre of Brisbane. Good accommodation options can be found nearby at seaside Wynnum. Hotels, motels, hostels, self-contained units and holiday rentals are all available.

Macleay Island is a scenic residential island in the relaxed waters of Moreton Bay. Swimming, fishing, boating, a stroll along the beach or a walk through the small strand of rainforest offer relaxing options for passing the time. Macleay even has a secondary small island – Perulpa Island – attached to it by a causeway.

At Pat's Point you’ll find picnic facilities and a swimming area to the north, where you can enjoy the seaside and panoramic views. There is a Golf Club and the well known Macleay Island Bowls Club – which has the most spectacular bay views.

Macleay itself has more than 2000 permanent residents, and is a relaxed and peaceful destination for a day trip or short break. Ferry connections leave from Redland Bay.

With immediate access to Moreton Bay, Manly is a boat lover's dream. The centerpiece of Manly is Manly Harbour, a marina crowded with magnificent yachts and quality eateries.

Manly is renowned for its relaxed yet sophisticated nautical atmosphere. And there's so much to do - from seaside family picnics to bike riding, from water sports to markets, it's all here. To get a real taste of the seaside location, why not take a sailing cruise out on Moreton Bay, or try boom-netting off the back of a boat with Manly Eco Cruises.

About 17 kilometres from the Brisbane Central Business District, Manly is perfect for families. There are good bike and walkways, a community swimming pool and a seawater wading pool. In the summer, outdoor activities such as canoeing and rollerblading are also very popular.

Spend some time in this wonderful waterfront precinct with its inspired streetscape and you will want to stay forever.

The historic village of Marburg, west of Ipswich, takes visitors back in time to an era when the town was the bustling hub of the local area. The streets are lined with beautifully restored heritage buildings including the old German Baptist Church, Bielefeld’s Store and the historic hotel built in 1879.

Just outside of town you’ll find the newly restored two-storey plantation style mansion named Woodlands of Marburg. This grand old lady of the valley is heritage-listed and was built in 1890 as the home of a local sawmill owner, his wife and their 11 children. The mansion overlooks picturesque Marburg Valley and is surrounded by magnificent Jacaranda Trees and Bunya Pines.

From Woodlands you can take a hot-air balloon ride over the Scenic Rim and the heritage city of Ipswich. The Great Dividing Range provides the backdrop for your breath-taking glide over the scenic countryside.

There are several boutique wineries in the area that are well worth the look. You can take a tour, enjoy a delicious meal and sample a drop of award-winning wine at the cellar door.

The pretty villages of Haigslea and Rosewood nearby are also of historical interest and great places to linger a while and explore.

Marburg is just 45 minutes’ drive from Brisbane and Toowoomba and 15 minutes from Ipswich.

Margate, near Redcliffe, is a coastal strip which features one of the Moreton Bay area’s longest mainland stretches of sand beach.

It also boasts a long, flat boardwalk promenade, making it ideal for those who like to walk, cycle, rollerblade or even scooter. There's always a lively and active atmosphere just metres from the waters of Moreton Bay.

Seating and shelters, with barbecues and other picnic amenities are located at regular intervals along the esplanade for visitors. There's a popular swimming spot with clean white sand and sheltered waters - making it a favorite dipping spot for families with young children.

When the wind is up, Scotts Point at the southern end of Margate is perfect for windsurfing. This is one of the few locations close to Brisbane which is not majorly affected by tides.

The quaint swimming pavilion at Scotts Point is an historical reference to a bygone era. There are many Norfolk Pine trees lining the esplanade which were planted by the first settlers in the area, more than 150 years ago.

With eateries and seaside stores conveniently located along the esplanade or nearby Oxley Avenue, Margate is well worth a visit. It's about 50 minutes' drive from the centre of Brisbane.

Milton is Icons and Espressos.

Park Road is the original cafe strip, one of the first suburbs to undergo an urban revitalisation and credited with igniting Brisbane's love affair with exciting, individual villages. Milton is all about the restaurants and is a little corner of Europe within Brisbane with the iconic La Dolce Vita taking centre stage since 1989. It has the charm and the sophistication but with the everyday casual flamboyant attitude to it.

A favourite with the in-crowd, this lively street is characterised by the expensive sports cars that jostle for prime parking positions outside gift shops, fashion houses and restaurants that surround a replica of the Eiffel Tower - now a symbol of Park Road's cosmopolitan nature.

Milton is also home to the XXXX Ale House and Brewery where on any given day, the fragrant smell of hops will envelop you. Head towards the river and take a casual stroll along the picturesque riverside walkway to the famous Heritage-listed Regatta Hotel - one of Brisbane's oldest pubs.

Moogerah is located one hour’s drive south west of Brisbane via the Cunningham Highway. For a little more scenery, take the route from Ipswich or the Gold Coast through Boonah.

Just outside Moogerah, you’ll find the spectacular Moogerah Peaks and five minutes away to the north-east, lies beautiful Lake Moogerah.

Lake Moogerah is a popular destination for boating, fishing, water-skiing or for having a picnic on the grassy banks. The lake has been stocked with Australian Bass, Golden Perch, Silver Perch, Mary River Cod and Saratoga. You will need a permit to fish but there are no boating restrictions on the lake and two concrete launching ramps are provided.

The Moogerah Peaks were formed from volcanic activity over 22 million years ago and consist of Mt French, Mt Greville, Mt Moon and Mt Edwards. These peaks are popular with bushwalkers and climbers and are known for their challenging terrain. Mt French in particular is internationally renowned for its spectacular cliff faces. The peaks offer bushwalkers a physical challenge and the opportunity to experience their rugged grandeur and extensive views in relative solitude. Vegetation is mostly open eucalypt forest with heath on exposed rock faces and some rainforest in sheltered areas.

The nearby township of Aratula offers coffee shops, a bakery, restaurant, antique stores, fresh produce and giftware. In the opposite direction, a short drive to Kalbar, Boonah or Mt Alford will provide you with opportunities to visit country pubs, coffee shops, restaurants and art galleries. Some local flower farms are also of interest.

Hotel, motel and caravan park accommodation is available within the area. There is a shire caravan park at Lake Moogerah and several good camping grounds nearby.

Explore the aquatic playground and marine sanctuary that is Moreton Bay and Islands, encompassing 125 kilometres of stunning blue waters from Bribie Island in the North to the Southern Bay Islands of the Redlands.

Brimming with natural wonders and home to two of the world's largest sand islands - Moreton Island and North Stradbroke Island - this diverse paradise is famous for its white sandy beaches, rugged coastlines and array of outdoor activities.

Nature lovers will be inspired to explore the assortment of habitats from the playful ocean life to the soaring sand dunes and abundant wetlands. These surroundings provide the perfect environment for all sorts of activities including sailing and cruising, snorkelling, sand tobogganing, four-wheel driving, bushwalking and much more.

The many bayside villages in the area are a mere 25 kilometres from Brisbane Central Business District and provide a charming community of restaurants, cafes, a winery commanding expansive bay views, independent art galleries, museums and bayside picnic spots.

For a special and unique treat, visit between June and October to see pods of whales putting on a show. This region provides the best land-based vantage points along the entire coast and is a base for the many cruises that get up close and personal with the whales.

No island in Moreton Bay says ‘fun’ more than Moreton.

Located in the northern part of the Bay, Moreton is only a short boat trip from Scarborough or Manly. One of the world’s largest sand islands, Moreton is almost completely National Park, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. It is famous as one of only a handful of places in the world where you can hand feed dolphins in the wild, at Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort.

Towards the northern end of the island, the freshwater Blue Lagoon lake offers a host of birdlife and wildflowers during spring – perfect for bird watching and bushwalking. Several walking tracks are established on the island.

Nearby at Cape Moreton stands the oldest lighthouse in Queensland, which was first lit on February 14, 1857.

Adrenalin seekers enjoy Moreton Island for the unique experience of sand-tobogganing down the world’s tallest stabilised sand dune - Mt Tempest. Guided tours are available; along with all the equipment you’ll need for a head-first, high-speed trip down the dune. Tangalooma also offers quad-biking tours around the island – their fleet of bikes is one of the largest in the country.

With mysterious shipwrecks and colourful coral reefs in the area, scuba diving and snorkelling are popular additions to the usual aquatic pursuits of swimming and surfing, which also happen to be world class on Moreton Island. The famous Tangalooma Wrecks provide some of the best diving and snorkelling to be found on the east coast of Australia. No time for the Great Barrier Reef? No problem, all this is right at Brisbane’s doorstep!

One of Queensland’s highest and most impressive peaks, Mount Barney is part of the Scenic Rim and Mount Barney National Park. The Park encompasses the largest area of undisturbed natural vegetation remaining in South East Queensland. The mountain’s sheer rugged peaks, caves, crevices and steep unforgiving landscape are best suited to experienced bushwalkers and rock climbers. At the base of the mountain, easier tracks can be found taking walkers to pristine rock pools and lush rainforest.

The eastern face of the mountain is a sheer 300 metre cliff, presenting a meaty challenge for the country’s best rock climbers. Abseilers also regularly test their mettle on nearby escarpments.

The mountain is home to rare and important species including platypus, kingfishers, Coxen’s Fig Parrot, robins, rock wallabies, kangaroos and many birds of prey. Vegetation is varied and includes eucalypt forest, River she-oaks, bottlebrushes, Golden Silky oaks, patches of rainforest and Antarctic Beech Forest.

The mountains and valleys around Mount Barney are the traditional homes of the Mununjali, Githabul and Yugambeh people. The mountain is considered sacred to these people and before European settlement corroborees would be held around the bora ring at the bottom of nearby Mount Ernest.

Accommodation options in the area range from friendly farm stays to cabins and limited camping.

Mt Barney is approximately two hours by car south west from Brisbane via Beaudesert and Rathdowney.

Scenic Mount Cotton is a semi-rural area south of Brisbane, known for its pretty country drives, invigorating bush walks, and award-winning winery.

Mount Cotton is in the middle of a koala conservation area and the surrounding local councils have set aside large tracts of land to protect the koala’s natural habitat. On a walk through Venman Bushland National Park you just might be lucky enough to see one of these cuddly marsupials.

The Sirromet winery at Mount Cotton is considered one of the best in the country. Regular events are held in the spacious grounds, featuring big name acts from around the country and overseas.

Wines produced on site have won major awards in France, the US and the UK. Find out what the fuss is all about by treating your taste buds to a sample at the cellar door. The winery’s gold star restaurant enjoys impressive views over the surrounding countryside and is consistently rated as among the best in Australia.

For a change of pace, visit the local driving training centre and learn how to drive a real Porsche!

Just 10 minutes’ drive east of Mount Cotton is Redland Bay where you can catch a ferry to the Bay Islands.

Accommodation in the area includes guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts and farmstays. Mount Cotton is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Brisbane.

Glorious by name, glorious by nature. Tenderly embraced by lush rainforest, the endearing mountain hamlet of Mount Glorious is just 45 minutes drive from Brisbane on the magnificent D’Aguilar Range.

Accessed by a winding mountain road, the tiny village is surrounded by mountainous National Park and protected forests. The drive up the mountain is peppered with breath-taking lookouts, picnic spots and points of natural interest. Be sure to stop a while and enjoy the view.

At 680 metres above sea level the village is sometimes shrouded in cloudy mist. The cool mountain air makes Mount Glorious a particularly glorious place to visit during the hot summer months.

In and around Mount Glorious you’ll find a range of attractive accommodation options from weekend retreats and rainforest chalets to bed-and-breakfasts and cosy cottages complete with fireplaces. The village has two restaurants where diners can tantalise their tastebuds with fresh farm produce sourced locally.

Mount Glorious also plays host to a magnificent world-class sculpture garden set amongst thick lush rainforest. Feel your work-day worries melt away as you marvel at these beautiful works of art crafted from marble, stone, bronze and onyx.

The stunning natural beauty of the mountain can be enjoyed with a bushwalk through adjoining Maiala National Park. Breathe in the crisp rainforest air, hike to the waterfall and be serenaded by hundreds of rainforest birds in song.

Overlooking the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains, Mount Mee is approximately 90 minutes drive north west of Brisbane and is part of the beautiful D’Aguilar Range. The delightfully bohemian village of Woodford is just 10 minutes drive to the north.

From on top of Mount Mee, expansive views of seaside Caloundra and pristine Moreton Bay can be savoured.

The Mount Mee Forest Reserve contains huge expanses of rainforest and eucalypt forest and includes many picturesque bushwalks and four wheel drive tracks. Clear water creeks, lush rainforest canopies and stunning views make the Reserve a perfect place to unwind and get back to nature.

Bushwalkers can explore beautiful, open forests, scribbly gum forests, rainforest remnants, hoop pine plantations and cascading rainforest creeks. For an extra challenge, hike the Somerset trail and be rewarded with glorious views of Somerset and Wivenhoe Lakes.

History buffs can inspect the remains of an antique sawmill and take the Piccabeen Palm walk to learn about the area’s forestry and logging history.

The area has a number of good camping spots with toilets, barbeques and firewood provided. Camping and four wheel drive permits are required.

With its rich volcanic soil and good rainfall, this area is also known for its coffee growing and wonderful variety of local cheeses. These gastronomic delights can be savoured at the local restaurants and eateries.

Several charming bed-and-breakfasts offer accommodation on Mount Mee with further accommodation options to be found at nearby Dayboro and Woodford.

Stop in at the historic tiny town of Murphy's Creek. You can get there via Toowoomba from the New England Highway or via the Warrego Highway. Today Murphy’s Creek is little more than a general store, coffee shop, and a historic cottage called Jeffery's Cottage. By the cottage, there are picnic tables that make the idea of picnicking in this quiet rural setting easy.

Although it is hard to imagine, around 100 years ago Murphy's Creek was a thriving business centre with tannery and bookmaker, blacksmith, bacon factory, wool scour, brickyards, pit sawmill, stone quarries, two stores, a butcher, two hotels and a bakery, a police station, court house and three churches. There were over a hundred children in the school. First called Fingal, the settlement grew when the railway line pushed up the range to Toowoomba.

The nearby creek gave its name to the town just as Peter Murphy had given his name to the creek when he built his station nearby in 1841.

Food. Parks. Culture.

Originally a farming area and later an industrial hub with boat moorings and commercial wool stores, Teneriffe has undergone an urban resurgence and where apartments have sprung up, restaurants, cafes and boutiques have followed. Ancient trees give shade for outdoor eating and the riverside boardwalk provides views of exclusive homes and loft-style units.

New Farm encourages an outdoor lifestyle, with tree lined streets and unique spaces such as Brisbane Powerhouse and the heart of the suburb, New Farm Park. The 37 hectare park attracts visitors to its perfect riverside picnic spots, frisbee throwing greens, cycling loops and tree house style adventure playground that sprawls through the branches of the giant fig trees.

The wine bars, cafes, restaurants and delis, riverside bowls club, galleries and theatres all combine to make New Farm and Teneriffe popular destinations to both live and visit.

Refreshing, relaxing, and simply beautiful, North Stradbroke Island, or "Straddie", as the locals call it, is one of Moreton Bay’s best loved getaway spots. The resident community, some 3,000 lucky people, will welcome you, and they’ll also expect you to look after this spectacular natural environment. (For your information, plastic bags are banned on the island, so any you bring with you, you’ll have to take away when you leave.)

Located at the southern end of Moreton Bay, it is one of the largest sand islands in the world, and is a popular escape destination for couples, families, nature lovers and adventure-seekers.

Stretches of white sandy beach line the island's ocean side making it ideal for swimming, surfing, and fishing, while the sheltered western edge offer a calm environment for those after a more relaxing experience.

Straddie is the perfect destination for a four wheel drive or bush adventure. While there are paved roadways around the island, much of the hinterland, including the lakes, is only accessible by four wheel drive, and these areas are fascinating sanctuaries for local flora and fauna. Bring your own four wheel drive or book a tour with an experienced Straddie operator. Some also offer tagalong tours for less experienced four wheel drive enthusiastists.

North Stradbroke Island is rich in Aboriginal and European historical sites. Visit the North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum at Dunwich for a fascinating history of the island. Eerily, the cemetery at Dunwich includes the graves of shipwreck and typhoid victims from the early 1800s.

Aboriginal shell middens can be found throughout the island. You can also attend indigenous cultural and bush tucker talks organised by the Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders.

North Stradbroke Island can be accessed by ferry from Cleveland.

In the south east corner of Queensland, perched high on the top of a mist shrouded mountain is the leafy hamlet of North Tamborine.

North Tamborine is one of three small communities on Mount Tamborine, an area known for its picture-postcard beauty, idyllic countryside and breath-taking views across the surrounding valleys.

The village centre has a number of delightful restaurants and cafes with fresh local produce on the menu. After a hearty meal you can explore the quaint art and craft shops, gift shops and art galleries in the street nearby.

Just minutes from town you’ll find a number of boutique wineries, set in beautifully landscaped gardens and offering tours, fine dining, and samples at the cellar door.

Cute, old-world bed and breakfasts abound on this part of the mountain, along with charming cottage-style accommodation, exclusive health resorts and boutique motels.

There are several rainforest walks in the area and when the weather is good, colourful hang gliders launch from a special site just three minutes from the centre of town.

Farming is still a way of life on the mountain, and the fresh local produce can be enjoyed with a stop at numerous road side vegetable stalls.

And when it’s time to step up the pace, the beaches, shopping and night life of the Gold Coast are a comfortable 40 minutes’ drive from North Tamborine.

For a relaxing day in the country or a romantic weekend for two, it’s hard to beat the beautiful mountain-top community of Ocean View.

Known as the gateway to Mount Mee in the Pine Rivers Shire, Ocean View is only an hour’s drive from the centre of Brisbane, but a world away in mindset. It’s a quiet, secluded community boasting stunning valley views and charming scenery.

The drive to Ocean View winds past small farms and picturesque countryside. When the mercury rises in Brisbane, Ocean View is guaranteed to be at least four degrees cooler. The elevated altitude and strong sea breezes create a micro-climate which is perfect for fine wine production. See the proof of this for yourself with a visit to one of the local wineries. Enjoy a meal at a fine a la carte restaurant and sample a local drop at the cellar door.

Just down the road you’ll find the village of Dayboro where you can browse the art galleries and art and craft shops.

Accommodation at Ocean View includes bed-and-breakfasts and cottage holiday rentals.

Oxenford, on the northern outskirts of the sunny Gold Coast is undoubtabley king of the theme park precincts in Australia. It claims four of the Gold Coast’s five major theme parks.

Oxenford’s theme parks have something for everyone. At Dreamworld, nature lovers can get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world as well as Australia’s cute, cuddly and creepy-crawly critters.

At Warner Brothers Movie World, film buffs can immerse themselves in a movie magic fantasy while rubbing shoulders with the stars. Step into the topsy turvey world of cartoons and re-connect with your inner-kid.

At Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, you can keep your cool with a thrill ride on a gigantic wild water slide, or splash with the kids in a water wonderland. Grab the board and hang ten on an endless wave.

Thrill-seekers will get a buzz from heart-pumping adrenalin rides and gravity-defying roller coasters at Dreamworld and Movie World. You’ll find rides to make your eyes pop and jaw drop!

Take a step back in time at The Australian Outback Spectacular. Thrill to the sight of dozens of stockmen and their horses performing in the centre ring. Learn more about a bygone era as you enjoy hearty bush tucker.

Oxenford is located on the northern end of the Gold Coast approximately 15 minutes from the heart of the Gold Coast. Good accommodation options can be found in nearby Coomera and Helensvale including caravan parks, motels, self-contained units and homestays.

Paddington is hills, cottages and boutiques.

The rolling and leafy hills of Paddington and Rosalie are speckled with quaint cottages turned enticing shop-fronts, restaurants that spill out onto the pavement and a mixture of traditional tin and timber houses and renovated Queenslanders.

Visitors will love browsing for quirky keepsakes, vintage and designer fashion, antique and second-hand treasures, retro goodies, home wares and artwork. The bars are a combination of boutique cocktail lounges and casual pubs and the restaurants are well known to the breakfast crowd, who can be found either enjoying a quick catch-up before work or a lazy weekend coffee.

Rosalie revolves around Rosalie Village, a pocket of streets tucked just behind Paddington featuring a great range of international cuisines, Rosalie Gourmet Market selling the best local product and Blue Room Cinebar, a luxury cinema.

When you visit Brisbane, you’ll be amazed just how quick and easy it is to find yourself immersed in lush hills and rainforests. In less than half an hour from the city, the verdant beauty of Pine Rivers is worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of town.

From the lofty heights of Mount Glorious, Mount Nebo and Mount Mee, to the tranquil shores of Lake Samsonvale, this is the ideal place to get away from it all. Nature takes over here, and it is impossible but to succumb to its beauty.

Yet interspersed throughout the region, in perfect harmony with the surroundings, you will find a range of outdoor adventure options and a healthy dose of pure indulgence.

Visit the charming country villages of Dayboro and Samford, with their antique stores and welcoming B&Bs. Enjoy a coffee, some quality dining or really pamper yourself with an overnight stay.

From a Mount Glorious restaurant, marvel at the spectacular views of Moreton Bay and islands in the distance. Tour the local vineyards, country delicatessens and provisions stores filled with chutneys, sauces and jams.

The Sunday markets at North Pine Country Park are worth a visit, as you never know what you might find. Then, for the kids, feeding the deer at the deer farm is always popular, as is getting close to the animals at the zoo in Dakabin.

If you’d like to get a bit active, there are plenty of exciting activities in Pine Rivers. Take part in a game of skirmish, go horse riding through the valley floor of Kurwongbah on a moonlit night, enjoy an adventure escapade, go on a four wheel drive hinterland excursion or play a leisurely round of golf at one of several clubs in the Shire.

Just 20 minutes drive from the Brisbane City Centre, Pinkenba is a contradicting blend of semi-rural lifestyle and industrial activity. The massive form of the Gateway Bridge looms large in Pinkenba’s background and to the north you’ll find the Brisbane Airport.

Situated on the shores of the Brisbane River, Pinkenba’s boat ramp is well utilised by boaties headed for the good fishing grounds found at the river’s mouth.

With its close proximity to Fort Lytton, the Port of Brisbane and the mouth of the river, Pinkenba played a key role in Brisbane’s defences during World War II. Several reminders of this time remain, including an anti-submarine indicator and loop huts at Myrtletown Reserve. The Pinkenba State School was also the first school in Brisbane to have an air raid shelter.

The Royal Brisbane Golf Course is nestled on the banks of the Brisbane River on the eastern edge of Pinkenba. The course is known as one of Australia’s finest and has hosted several Australian Open Championships and Australian PGA Championships.

Accommodation can be found in nearby Hamilton, one of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs. Here you’ll find quality hotels, motels, units, bungalows, bed-and-breakfasts and villas along with a host of dining and entertainment options.

Arguably one of the best land-based whale-watching sites in Australia, Point Lookout on beautiful North Stradbroke Island. Located just off the coast of Brisbane, the island is easy to access with a regular ferry service from mainland Cleveland.

The stately migration of the Southern Humpback whale to warmer waters in the north is a true wonder of nature and can be enjoyed at Point Lookout during the months of winter.

Dolphins, sea turtles and graceful manta rays are also frequent visitors to the crystal clear waters that surround Point Lookout and can be easily spied from several rocky outcrops. Get a little closer to the action with some snorkelling or a sea kayak adventure – both activities available on the island.

With Point Lookout as your base you can embark on a surfing safari along one of Queensland’s best surfing beaches. The Point is also a great place to start on one of many nature walks around the island. The walk to North Gorge is a must with a picture-postcard scene around every corner. The walk leads you past North Gorge to Whale Rock. When the tide and sea conditions are right, air whistles through a blowhole in the rock giving the uncanny effect of a spouting whale.

From camping to luxury apartments, Point Lookout has accommodation to suit every taste and budget. However dining at Point Lookout’s first-class eateries is strictly a casual affair, with most welcoming barefoot dining during the day. Don’t pack your dinner suit but do bring your tastebuds as many establishments serve succulent seafood straight from the fisherman to you.

Rathdowney is about an hour's drive south of Brisbane, and just a short drive from Beaudesert in the Logan River Valley. At the base of the Great Dividing Range, Rathdowney is a beautiful township offering lush forests and rolling hills.

Rathdowney still retains much of its historical origins in timbering and dairy farming. You can learn about the interesting history of this area at the Visitor Information Centre and Historical Museum. See what events are on in the area or even buy local arts and crafts... Rathdowney invites you.

Just 30 minutes from downtown Brisbane, the delightful holiday centre of Redcliffe is a perfect combination of sun, sand and sea. It has so much to offer visitors who wish to escape the stress of modern living with 22 kilometres of soft sandy beaches, spectacular views across Moreton Bay from the Hornibrook Highway and mouth watering seafood restaurants.

There are many activities to enjoy from historic walks to Settlement Cove Lagoon, cycling along the 35 kilometres of scenic bikeways and exploring the pristine wetlands. The unique wilderness of Moreton Island is easily accessible from Redcliffe for day visits and camping.

Redcliffe was the site of the first European settlement in Queensland in 1824. Since then, Redcliffe has blossomed into a festive city, ideal for families. The Seafood Festival, Kite Fest and First Settlement Festival, are just some of the local celebrations.

Discover Redcliffe's rich and fascinating history at the museum, or be entertained viewing vintage movies, browsing art galleries, or watching whales and dolphins at play.

Charming and friendly with a country ambience, Redland Bay is home to a close-knit resident population who welcome visitors.

Situated at the southern end of the Redlands area, it is the departure point for the Southern Bay Islands of Moreton Bay. Regular ferry and barge services depart from Redland Bay for Russell, Lamb, Macleay and Karragarra Islands.

Sport is a popular pastime in Redland Bay with a major golf course, tennis courts and a amateur fishing club located in the community. Walkers and cyclists are also catered for on the many tracks dotted throughout the area through parks and along the foreshore.

The Redlands as a region is famous for its strawberries with the annual ‘Spring Festival’ attracting visitors from near and far to celebrate and indulge in these delicious fruits.

All located within an hour’s drive of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Redlands district is a convenient and diverse holiday destination. Bordered by the beautiful aquatic paradise of Moreton Bay and its islands, the region boasts glistening beaches, mountain ranges and a fascinating history.

Redlands includes the busy city suburbs of Cleveland, Capalaba, Alexandra Hills and Birkdale, where visitors will find excellent facilities and shopping. The Cleveland Bayside Markets bring the town centre alive as local artists and craftspeople sell their wares. By the sea shore, the bayside suburbs of Victoria Point and Wellington Point boast wonderful views of the water, and are the perfect place for a relaxing picnic.

The region has several national parks, including Venman’s Bushland National Park in Mount Cotton. There is a variety of walking tracks through bushland, which comes alive with wildlife at dawn and dusk. Barbecue and picnic facilities are available, as well as fresh water and toilets. Nature lovers should also be sure to visit the Eprapah Environmental Centre at Victoria Point.

Along with its natural beauty, the high mountain region of Mount Cotton offers many diverse attractions for visitors to enjoy, including an award winning winery, a rainforest garden and a unique commercial herb garden and cafe.

Russell Island is the largest of the bay islands, at around eight kilometres long by three kilometres across. It boasts beautiful views of the bay and North Stradbroke Island, and an abundance of diverse natural environments, and birdlife that make it very popular with nature lovers.

With its laidback lifestyle, Russell Island is an ideal spot for families with calm beaches, and grassy picnic areas with barbecues. Fishing is popular off the jetty or on the beaches.

Turtle Swamp is a spectacular sight in spring with the array of wildflowers, and with woodlands, forest and mangroves also in abundance, bushwalking and cycling is a popular pastime on this island. Ferry access is available from Redland Bay.

Nestled in an elbow of beautiful Samford Creek, the village of Samford is an idyllic picture of relaxed country living. Approximately 45 minutes drive from the bustle of Brisbane, Samford in located in the endearing Samford Valley at the foot of Mount Nebo.

The picturesque drive to Samford will take you through forest, farmland and valleys, framed by the spectacular mountains of the D’Aguilar range in the distance.
Quaint craft shops, art galleries and historical points of interest are sprinkled throughout the village. The historic pub, built in 1906 is a great place for lunch. Or you may like to sample fresh local fare at a charming cafe or restaurant offering creek and rainforest views.

For something special, visit one of Samford’s regular markets for handmade gifts or savour farm fresh produce, preserves, baked goods and organic tea and coffee.

On the eastern outskirts of Samford is Brisbane Forest Park and Samford State Forest. Pull on a pair of comfortable walking shoes and discover gorges fringed with rainforest, freshwater ponds, thick eucalypt woodland and spectacular views to Moreton Bay. Good picnic and barbecue facilities are provided so make a day of it with a packed lunch.

Accommodation at Samford includes boutique hotels, mountain retreats and bed-and-breakfasts. Camping facilities are also provided at Brisbane Forest Park.

The beautiful seaside village of Scarbough is a vibrant, lively precinct where something is always happening.

At the northern end of the Redcliffe Peninsula, the Scarborough Boat Harbour is always a hive of activity. Many tour operators launch from here, as well as the vehicular ferries that service Moreton Island. Nearby Newport Marina is also home to a number of cruise, scuba charter and fishing experience tour operators.

Fresh seafood is synonymous with Scarborough; many visitors make the trek to enjoy a gourmet feast or a more casual outdoor meal of fish and chips.

Scarborough was dubbed home to ‘Australia’s Friendliest Beach’ in 2004 in the Keep Australia Beautiful Clean Beach challenge. The beach area and its surrounding esplanades and parks are enjoyed by family groups picnicking and playing, swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, walkers, cyclists and even parachuters who often use the beach as a landing zone.

Children will especially love the themed playgrounds of Pirate Place and Railway Place at Scarborough Beach Park with its amazing play equipment and large cottonwood climbing trees. Railway Place has been specially designed so that all young people, including children with disabilities, can explore and enjoy. Jamieson Park’s with its northern views to Deception Bay and the Glass House Mountains also has facilities perfect for family outings enabling more people to enjoy a day at this delightful spot.

Scarborough is about an hour's drive from the centre of Brisbane.

Follow the changing landscape west and you'll find yourself in the Scenic Rim, Brisbane's world-heritage listed backyard, home to lush rainforests, spectacular mountain ranges and ancient landforms.

Food and wine, romantic escapes, camping, bushwalking, country pubs, art, history and adventures are all here, tied together by the landscape and the beautiful towns and villages dotted throughout.

Explore the great outdoors and trek mountains such as Mt Tamborine, Mt Lindesay and Mt Barney or lose yourself on one of the many trails through Lamington National Park, taking in the majestic waterfalls and breathtaking lookouts.

This natural wonderland can be experienced in the air, on the water or across the land with hot air ballooning, fishing, water skiing and wine tasting waiting for you as you discover the winding roads and natural fauna and flora.

Be pampered at one of the many country-style bed and breakfasts or escape from the rest of the world at the charming lodges, rainforest retreats and spa hideaways.

Culture and Lifestyle at South Bank.

The southern banks of the river play host to Brisbane's thriving cultural heart, which now has a solid reputation for securing large-scale musicals and international art exhibitions. It includes Australia's largest Gallery of Modern Art, the Queensland Theatre Company, Queensland Museum, Queensland Performing Arts centre and State Library of Queensland, an impressive combination that connects us to our history and culture.

South Bank also has a more playful side and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike who come to the parklands to bask in the glorious Queensland sunshine, swim in the man-made beach or relax at the cafes, parks and boardwalks.

Spanning the length of the river are Little Stanley and Grey Streets, offering a myriad of restaurants, hotels and bars, fashion boutiques selling top designs from international and local talent and the 60-metre-high Brisbane Wheel offering panoramic views of the Brisbane River, city and mountains.

The inner city suburb of South Brisbane has undergone a renaissance in recent years to become one of Brisbane’s most popular areas.

Once full of warehouses, factories, and wharves, South Brisbane underwent an incredible metamorphosis when the derelict industrial area on the banks of the Brisbane River was transformed into the site of the World Expo in 1988.

Now the suburb hums with the sounds of cosmopolitan coffee shops, fashionable wine bars, quality hotels and multi-ethnic cafes and restaurants. South Brisbane is bordered by South Bank, the city’s premier recreational destination. At South Bank you can swim in the pristine waters of the man-made beach, enjoy stunning views and beautiful parklands, treat your taste-buds to a dizzying array of dining options and catch some theatre, ballet, opera, a concert or art exhibition.

A number of beautiful old buildings still punctuate the South Brisbane landscape. Worth a look are Saint Andrew’s Anglican Church, the former Municipal Chambers and a number of old pubs that have withstood the tests of time and whims of fashion.

The Brisbane Convention Centre can also be found at South Brisbane. This large Centre regularly hosts expositions, charity balls, gala dinners, seminars, comedy performances, and concerts by big name acts.

South Brisbane is a two minute drive or ferry ride across the river from the Brisbane City Centre. Accommodation options include hotels, motels and self-contained apartments.

Perched on the cusp of the Brisbane city centre, Spring Hill is one of Brisbane’s most popular suburbs, within easy walking distance to the best of what Brisbane has to offer.

To the west are the beautiful Roma Street Parklands where you can feed the ducks and take the boardwalk high above a forest canopy. To the south is the bustling city heart and to the west is funky Fortitude Valley, a colourful hub of live music, groovy nightspots, trendy cafes, art galleries and Brisbane’s Chinatown.

Spring Hill is one of the oldest residential neighbourhoods in Brisbane, with many houses dating back to the nineteenth century.

Along the streets you’ll find quaint workers cottages and terrace houses from the 1800s, along with beautifully restored heritage-listed buildings. There are many fine award-winning eateries in the area, as well as cute coffee shops, historic pubs and colourful nightspots.

Overlooking the city centre, The Windmill in Wickham Park was built by convicts in 1827 and was one of Queensland’s first stone buildings. Of equal historical significance are the Spring Hill Baths, built in 1886. Surrounded by a ring of quaint individual dressing rooms, the baths are still in operation today.

Spring Hill is within easy walking distance of the Brisbane city centre and just 15 minutes’ drive from Brisbane airport. Accommodation in Spring Hill ranges from bed-and-breakfasts and self contained units to luxurious hotels.

Despite being the only island in Moreton Bay with a holy name, St Helena Island has a dark and grim past.

For 65 years (from 1867 to 1932) it was Queensland's maximum security prison for men, and was home to the colony’s worst criminals. The Prison Superintendent lived in a magnificent house surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The house has gone, but glimpses of his opulent lifestyle remain, along with other ruins which are a reminder of personal enterprise and suffering. Today’s St Helena provides visitors with an eerie insight into its bleak past, which gave rise to its reputation as 'the hell hole of the Pacific' and 'Queensland's Inferno'.

Located four kilometres from the mouth of the Brisbane River, St Helena Island is one of Queensland's most historic islands and has been preserved as Historic National Park – the first of its type Queensland.

Today, an environmental education centre operates on the island. It helps students understand how European settlers changed the Australian landscape and colonial Queensland’s social and political history affected the lives of St Helena's prisoners and wardens.

Tour operators conduct educational historic tours of St Helena, but more daring types can enjoy 'Ghost Tour' at night, when visitors can watch live, moonlit vignettes re-enacting the Island’s history.

Private boat owners can join a Ranger-led tour on weekends and public holidays by making prior arrangements with Rangers on St.Helena Island. Fees apply.

Tamborine Mountain is an idyllic oasis comprised of three heritage communities: Mount Tamborine, North Tamborine and Eagle Heights. Located about an hour south of Brisbane and just inland from Surfers Paradise, Tamborine Mountain offers a quiet respite from busy city life. The Tamborine Mountain communities stretch along the McPherson Range, offering spectacular views to the valleys below and the impressive high-rises of the Gold Coast.

Tamborine Mountain provides many opportunities for holiday enjoyment. Explore the beautiful Tamborine Mountain National Park with its cascading waterfalls, rainforest walking tracks and remarkable coastal vistas. Take time to wander along Gallery Walk, a stretch of shops and galleries with antiques, crafts and fine restaurants. And on the weekends, browse through market stalls to buy locally grown produce (avocado and macadamia nuts especially) and then stop by the festivities at one of many events through the year.

Your choices for accommodation are limitless, with a quaint cottages and classic bed and breakfasts, catering to families and couples alike. And because of this diversity, Tamborine Mountain has established itself as a popular destination for weddings, honeymoons and couples seeking a quiet romantic getaway.

Tamborine Mountain invites you to experience this and more.

Hidden away on the fringes of Brisbane’s leafy outer suburbs lies a secluded community known as The Gap. Surrounded by lush bushland but just 15 minutes drive to the Brisbane city centre, locals at The Gap truly enjoy the best of both worlds.

Visitors are drawn to The Gap to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of Brisbane Forest Park – over 28,500 hectares of unspoiled bushland offering opportunities for bushwalking, mountain-bike riding, horse-riding, bird-watching, picnicking or camping at a remote site in the hills.

The rich diversity of birds, animals and plant life in this park is surprising, and after enjoying any one of the picturesque walking tracks, it’s easy to see why the locals have preserved this unique part of natural Brisbane.

Tuck into a barbeque lunch at Jolly’s Lookout and enjoy sweeping views over the Samford Valley. Venture further with a short rainforest walk among strangler figs and climbing vines. Marvel at the sheer size and scale of Wivenhoe Dam on a scenic drive of the area.

Back at The Gap, you can visit the Walkabout Creek Wildlife Centre - a living showcase of the amazing wildlife diversity of south-east Queensland. Get up close and personal with the reptiles, frogs, mammals, fish and birds that call this part of the world home.

Accommodation is the area is limited to holiday rentals and homestays, however a good selection of hotels and motels can be found in the suburbs closer to the Brisbane city centre.

Toowong is a very popular, well known Brisbane suburb located five minutes drive west of the Brisbane city centre. The suburb is nestled between mighty Mount Coot-tha and the north bank of the meandering Brisbane River. From the banks of the river beautiful views of the city skyline can be enjoyed.

A cosmopolitan and multicultural part of the city, Toowong still enjoys the kind of friendly, relaxed ambience Queensland is famous for.

Located within Toowong are two of Brisbane’s most famous, heritage-listed hotels. These hotels have been beautifully restored and, along with several others establishments, offer superb dining and wonderful views of the river.

Toowong is a great spot to indulge in a little retail therapy. A large shopping complex in the heart of town offers everything from specialty stores to supermarkets. Nearby shopping precincts offer more variety and interest, with a wide range of gift shops, homewares and designer boutiques.

Every day tastebuds are tantalised at Toowong’s lively cafes, sushi bars, bistros, hotels and top notch restaurants.

On the western outskirts of Toowong, at the foot of Mount Coot-tha, are the beautiful Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. This huge garden contains over 5000 plant species from around the world and offers a number of delightful walking trails with spectacular views. On the Aboriginal art trail you’ll find fascinating tree carvings and rock paintings. Families will enjoy the astronomy programs offered at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium located within the Gardens.

Accommodation options in Toowong include apartments in riverside high-rises that take advantage of the city views. Villas, studio apartments and holiday rentals are also available.

Victoria Point is a pretty bayside precinct that ambles along at an easy pace, and is the gateway to Moreton Bay’s quirkily named Coochiemudlo Island.

With a multitude of parks and esplanades within its boundaries, Victoria Point is another popular spot for leisurely outdoor afternoons spent strolling, cycling, or enjoying a barbecue with family and friends.

Coochiemudlo Island is just a few minutes from Victoria Point by ferry. Regular passenger ferries and vehicle barges depart every half an hour from the Victoria Point Jetty, Colburn Avenue.

Koalas are an important part of the Redland area and Victoria Point is home to several environmental reserves. Point Halloran Conservation Reserve and Eprapah Environmental Centre are both places to view koalas in the wild, and go bushwalking on organised walking trails. Egret Colony Wetlands, home to many species of birdlife, is another haven for nature lovers in the area.

Victoria Point is about an hour's drive from the centre of Brisbane.

Perched out on the tip of a peninsula, Wellington Point has a bustling, friendly atmosphere where the water and seaside are enjoyed to the fullest by locals and the many people who visit this village on weekends.

Bordered by water on both sides, it’s no surprise that Wellington Point is known as a great spot for fishing, boating, and various water sports. Adventurous water pursuits such as jetskiing, windsurfing, and more recently, the spectacular sport of kitesurfing, have become a common sight at Wellington Point. Its long jetty is the ideal spot to cast your fishing line and exchange stories with local and visiting fishing enthusiasts who gather there in droves.

You’ll love the beautiful views across Moreton Bay and out to the islands, especially if shared with friends over a drink or a meal in one of the many cafes, restaurants and clubs throughout the area.

Massive Moreton Bay Fig trees on the esplanade provide a fantastic natural playgound for children who like to climb. Ample picnic amenities nearby complete the picture to ensure an excellent family day out.

At low tide you can walk out on the sand spit to nearby tiny King Island to investigate this unique conservation area, or visit Wellington Point Conservation Wetland. You can also spot dolphins and turtles in the surrounding waters and mangroves.

Wellington Point is just under an hour's drive from the centre of Brisbane.

Just five minutes drive south of Ipswich, Willowbank is known by petrol-heads around the world for its world-class drag racing and motor sport complex. The huge outdoor centre offers a program of drag racing entertainment for the whole family. Also featured are pro stock motorcycle racing, street car racing and nitro-burning funny cars. Everything you need to get your motor running!

Willowbank Raceway owns the distinction of hosting the largest championship drag race held outside of the United States, along with televised national and state events.

The multi-purpose Complex also hosts the Ipswich Kart Club and an Advanced Driver Education Centre. At the Education Centre visitors can learn the finer points of defensive driving, vehicle control in dangerous conditions, and how to properly maintain your vehicle.

If your sense of adventure extends beyond fast cars, then Willowbank is also the place you can step on board a plane and experience the thrill of a tandem skydive!

Just five minutes north of Willowbank is the thriving city of Ipswich where you’ll find more attractions including a rail museum and model train workshop.

There is no accommodation in Willowbank itself but nearby Ipswich has a host of accommodation options from caravan parks through to luxurious motels and apartments.

Wilston is a highly attractive precinct in Brisbane, in more ways than one. Its stunning blend of old and new architecture - from workers’ cottages to modern architect-designed homes - paints a superb picture. Its inner city location and breathtaking views of the city from more elevated streets of Wilston Hill means property here is highly sought after.

Just as popular is the burgeoning hub of alfresco dining, cafes and delicatessens. Wilston’s main street, Kedron Brook Road, has excellent shopping by day, and the village practically buzzes with activity at night under the lights.

Local stores in the area are supplemented by larger centres at Lutwyche Shopping Centre and slightly further away at Stafford and Brookside. Wilston is easy to get to, with regular trains and buses from the city.

Situated five minutes north of Brisbane’s city centre, the suburb of Windsor is steeped in the history of Brisbane.

As one of Brisbane’s older suburbs, the landscape of Windsor is sprinkled with grand old homes, majestic Queenslanders, heritage-listed buildings and renovated workers cottages. Hilly parts of the suburb boast stunning city views, while the low-lying areas enjoy the calm tranquillity of Enoggera Creek.

The Windsor Historic Society is based in the former Council Chambers, a quaint old stone building, constructed in 1897 from stone carved out of the nearby Windsor quarry. The old building and quarry are now heritage-listed and you can visit them for a glimpse of this fascinating piece of Brisbane history. While you’re in the area visit the Windsor War Memorial located near the Chambers building and admire the beautiful old stone cenotaph.

Wilston locals have set aside one hectare of their suburb for an organic community garden at Northey Street. The fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs harvested from these community-managed gardens can be purchased at regular growers’ markets conducted on site.

Attractive parkland and walkways are provided alongside beautiful Enoggera Creek. A relaxed stroll along the creek will take you to Downey Park containing playing fields, parkland as well as some remnant bushland. The Park also offers excellent city views.

You will find a wide variety of good restaurants in Windsor as well as take-away options and cafes. Accommodation options include four star hotels and motor-inns.

Woodford is a small but very pretty town, 20 minutes west of Caboolture on the D'Aguilar Highway. Noted for its wide streets, grand old hotel and colonial style shops, it was one of the earliest settled areas of the shire and its history is reflected in several noted tourist spots.

Woodford is home to one of Australia's largest collections of narrow gauge steam locos. Members of the Australian Narrow Gauge Railway Museum Society have developed a museum off Archer Street and on Sundays, volunteers run a restored steam loco through the town for visitors to enjoy.

The summit of Mount Mee offers panoramic views over the Caboolture Shire to Moreton Bay. The Mount Mee state forest with its walking tracks, picnic areas and camping sites, is extremely popular. The well signed walks wind through superb sub tropical rainforest and offer spectacular views.

Rich farm lands produce strawberries, bananas, pineapples, pawpaw with many roadside stalls and shops the place to stop and select produce fresh from the farm daily.

Woodford township oozes charm with its colonial shops offering a variety of goods from antiques, fashion, home wares and eateries. For something different pop into Grapeland Fruit shop where the King (Elvis) is immortalised in posters and you can be taken back to the years of rock n roll with impromptu renditions of Elvis’ greatest hits.

The Storeybrook Herb and Cottage display gardens at Petersen Road Woodford, is another charming spot for visitors who can enjoy homemade Devonshire teas and a stroll through the attractive fragrant gardens.

Woodford is also home to a large annual music festival.

Accommodation in the area includes a motel and bed and breakfast at nearby D'Aguilar and a bed and breakfast establishment at Storeybrook herb and gardens.

Picturesque Woody Point allows visitors the chance to soak up a relaxed seaside village experience. Its many charming eateries and seaside arts and craft shops, give Woody Point a casual atmosphere.

Perched at the southern tip of the Redcliffe Peninsula, its beaches are a much loved Brisbane aquatic playground where people can swim, sail, or lie back and watch the dolphins play. Come on a Sunday and watch the spectacular sight of yachts racing in the bay, before they return to the local Humpybong Yacht Club

Fishing enthusiasts can make the most of the waters around Woody Point jetty, just as the many pelicans do that call this section of Redcliffe home.

Picnic facilities are abundant in the parks along the esplanade, and you can also enjoy a long, relaxing walk or cycle around the point on flat, dedicated pathways. A visit to the Gayundah Coastal Arboretum is certainly worthwhile and is perfect for picnics with its views to Moreton Island and its array of rare plant species.

Woody Point is historically significant as the landing spot of Mathew Flinders in 1799, and is the final resting place of the heavily armed 'Gayundah' warship wreck which first took to the water in 1885 before being decommissioned in 1958.

The Renaissance Precinct at Woolloongabba

Some say Woolloongabba means "meeting place" in local Aboriginal dialect and certainly for 'The Gabba' (as it affectionately known to locals) and East Brisbane, it's a fitting phrase. On game day, the footpaths that wind from the Central Business District towards the commanding structure that is The Gabba Cricket Ground overflow with fans dressed head to toe in the colours of their favourite cricket or AFL team.

Boasting Brisbane's most well-known road and street names outside of the Central Business District, including Vulture, Stanley, Lytton, Logan and Main, Woolloongabba and East Brisbane are home to old facades, creative industries, quirky boutiques, trendy restaurants and antique stores that carry the fragrance of old timber, books and bric-a-brac.

The ongoing revitalisation of the Gabba Village and surrounds has created a cosmopolitan vibe with boulevards and streetscapes shaping the perfect environment for European footpath dining among the outdoor lounge spaces and quirky street furniture.

The hub of the eastern bay coastal villages, Wynnum is a lively, family friendly seaside suburb. About 15 kilometres from the Brisbane Central Business District and about 30 minutes by car, Wynnum attracts all kinds of visitors who enjoy the atmosphere of a village by the water.

Taking a relaxing stroll along the Esplanade at Wynnum is a highlight of the area, as is the wading pool and waterpark for the children. Other favourites of the children are the Wynnum North bird hide, where they can watch native birds feeding and resting, and the Wynnum Mangrove Boardwalk with its storybook trail.

There are plenty of first-rate dining options around Wynnum, with the main dining and shopping areas being Bay Terrace, Tingal Road and Glenora Street. So whether you are looking for a cafe, take-away, pub or restaurant, you will find something to suit your taste in Wynnum.