In the Gold Coast hinterland, an hour south of Brisbane, Tamborine National Park tells a story dating back 20-23 million years, when eruptions from a massive shield volcano laid the foundations of the landscape we see today.
Many people don’t know that the Witches Falls section of Tamborine National Park was declared as Queensland’s first national park in 1908. Over the years, additional reserves have also been declared on the Tamborine plateau and surrounding foothills. So now, large pockets of lush subtropical rainforest characterised by massive red cedars and impressive strangler figs are officially protected.
On weekends the township of Tamborine Mountain is filled with market-goers and day-trippers perusing wares and weighing up the many options for lunch with a stunning view.
Speaking of views, St Bernards Hotel is the oldest and most iconic pub on the mountain, set on the edge of an ancient volcanic landscape, with jaw-dropping views of Guanaba Gorge, the northern part of the Gold Coast out to Stradbroke Island, and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll meet many locals and tourist in this bustling hotspot, as well as the two St. Bernard dogs who call it home. You’ll find all the pub classics on the menu such as chicken schnitzel and parmigiana, beef and steak burgers, fish of the day and Caesar salads, but if you love a good pie, then don’t miss the famous, mouth-watering Guinness pie.
In the quaint little village found atop the winding roads, Tamborine Mountain Coffee Plantation provides a local coffee experience with beans grown and roasted onsite. It’s a boutique micro-lot plantation offering tours. Just ensure you pre-book your visit online. Afterwards, indulge in a coffee and a lovingly made slice of cake, or sip on cocktail with brunch in the Coffee House.
Witches Falls Winery and Tamborine Mountain Distillery
Liqueurs, vodka, gin, rum, as well as wine from freshly harvested grapes can all be tasted on Tamborine Mountain. With its distinctive, charming Tudor-style architecture, Tamborine Mountain Distillery has had more than 300 awards, making it Australia’s most awarded distillery and liquor brand this century. Tastings are around 30 minutes, so it’s an delicious, must-do adventure to tick off the list, and one sure to put a spring in your step!
Similarly, Witches Falls’ Winery offers wine tastings and lovely platters. The food is mostly an accompaniment to the wine – cheese, chutneys and all your charcuterie board favourites – as there is no restaurant on site. The tastings are 60 minutes at $20 per head, and there is also an option for an artisanal cider tasting as well. The owners welcome picnic blankets and friends to enjoy the atmosphere at Witches Falls.
Tamborine Mountain – Adventure activities
In 2004, a Glow Worm cave was purposely built at Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery. Although the cave harbours all the natural beauty of a naturally formed cave, the Glow Worms were introduced and have proved to be a popular tourist attraction since their viewing was possible in 2005. There are tours available with a tour guide as well as photo opportunities and even an informative DVD.
Curtis Falls Walking Track is also another Tamborine must do adventure. The trail meanders through the rainforest and there is a decent waterfall located at the finish line for visitors to enjoy and perhaps, even take a swim in. The walking track takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and along the way there will be ample photography opportunities for those who want to keep their Tamborine Mountain visits in the family photo album or on Instagram.
TreeTop Challenge at Adrenaline Park Mountain is a zip-lining adventure high amongst the trees. The course has varying levels of difficulty so children and adults are both welcome to tackle the obstacles in a great day out for the family.
If you’re feeling particularly extravagant, Hot Air Balloon Scenic Rim will give you one of the most thrilling 360 views of the Tambourine Mountain Rainforest you can find. The ride even finishes with a stop in Canungra Valley Vineyard for a champagne breakfast and wine tasting – you might need something to calm the nerves after watching one of the most spectacular sunsets of your life.
Also be sure to check out the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk – a 1.5km walk that takes visitors from the forest floor 30 metres up into the canopy, thanks to a 40-metre-long cantilever bridge. The complex includes an Eco Gallery showcasing local rainforest animals and insects, and the Birdwing Cafe.
See skywalktamborine.com and stbernardshotel.com.
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Travel to Tamborine
Fly into the Gold Coast or Brisbane with Rex airlines. Book your ticket here.
