Alex Spurway’s guide to the Scenic Rim of Queensland

Located an hour’s drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the naturally beautiful Scenic Rim region is an adventurers paradise. This charming country escape is home to dramatic peaks and mountain ranges, waterfalls and swimming holes, tranquil lakes and quaint rural towns to explore. With so much to see and do, what better way to spend an adventure filled weekend in the country than in a cosy caravan. On a recent trip with Camplify, I hitched my 4X4 up to an Adria Altea by Leisure Caravans in Brisbane. This lightweight caravan was the perfect size for a quick and stress-free weekend away in Brisbane’s country backyard. Not to mention, ready to be used off-grid for that extra flexibility. After a comprehensive handover and rundown, I was on my way - destination, Scenic Rim.

A traveller’s guide to the Scenic Rim

Flinders Peak

On the northern edge of the Scenic Rim, the Flinders-Goolman Conservation area is home to an extensive network of bushwalking and mountain biking trails to explore and enjoy. If you’re up for a mountain scrambling adventure not too far from the city, Flinders Peak will tick all your boxes. This challenging yet rewarding summit trail will reward you with spectacular views from the summit and is the perfect introduction to the rugged landscapes of the Scenic Rim.

Lake Moogerah

A family favourite, Lake Moogerah is a stunning spot to relax by the water and enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks. Haigh Park is the main picnic area, which has everything you need for a day out. From here you can wander across the dam wall, or tackle the scramble to the summit of Mount Edwards.

Mount Barney National Park

In the South of the region, Mount Barney dominates the landscape with its dramatic and rugged peaks, some of the tallest in South East Queensland. Highlights of Mount Barney include Yellow Pinch lookout and the lower portals, a popular day walk to a secluded waterhole at the base of the mountain. If you’re up for a challenge, Mount Maroon is a popular climbing destination.

Lake Wyaralong

This large dam nestled at the base of Mount Joyce is a popular destination for non-powered watersports including stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. One of three lakes in the Scenic Rim, Lake Wyaralong is the most peaceful and secluded, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a day by the water.

Boonah

Located in the heart of the Scenic Rim, Boonah is a charming little town that you can’t miss even if you tried. This picturesque country town is surrounded by mountain peaks and lush farmland. Pop into the centre of Boonah for a coffee, country pub meal or a stroll down the high street, where you’ll be bumping shoulders with friendly locals and farmers. Just outside of town, Mount French Lookout is a rewarding and very accessible viewpoint of the surrounding region.

Main Range National Park

In the far west of the region, Main Range National Park - Cunningham’s Gap section is home to some of the most popular day walks in South East Queensland, that take you all the way up to 1100m elevation. The Mount Cordeaux and Mount Mitchell walks both offer excellent views and are suitable walks for every ability, winding their way through lush Gondwana Rainforest to the summit. The nearby Governors Chair Lookout is an easily accessible lookout where you’ll catch panoramic views over the Fassifern Valley.

Mount Tamborine

In the far East of the region (practically the Gold Coast ), Mount Tamborine is the northernmost part of the Tweed Caldera rising high above the surrounding plains. Explore lush subtropical rainforests and waterfalls at Curtis Falls Walking track , or peruse the boutiques and galleries along the main street of Tamborine North.

Where to eat and drink:

• Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm, Mount Alford

• Scenic Rim Brewery, Mt Alford

• The Overflow Estate 1895, Wyralong

• Scenic Rim Farm Shop, Kents Lagoon

• Blume Restaurant, Boonah

• Commercial Hotel, Boonah

• Arthur Clive’s Bakery, Boonah

• Lake Moogerah Cafe, Moogerah Dam

Where to stay:

Olive View Estate, Boonah

If you’re exploring the region in a Camplify hire - whether it’s a van or caravan, this stunning 35-acre working farm / hipcamp is the perfect place to set up camp. Upon arrival, you’ll have two large paddocks to choose from and no pre-allocated spaces, so you’re free to explore and find your perfect spot. You’ll need to be entirely self-sufficient - this is wild camping at its best! The property stretches across a rolling green hill so you’ll be treated to endless country views in every direction. This gorgeous property is home to a 700-tree olive grove, cottage gardens, friendly farm animals, native wildlife and a collection of restored classic cars. You’ll also find a very quaint on-site farm shop selling a full range of goodies from the farm. If you’re after a lazy weekend away in a self-contained camper or caravan, this is the spot for you.

Want to explore Queensland’s Scenic Rim in style, luxury and with complete and utter freedom? Hire a van from Camplify and see the best of the region with this handy guide. Check out our tips and tricks for towing a caravan and five stunning coastal towns to check out across the country. See you out there.