Tamborine Mountain is a charming and serene mountainous destination that offers a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to unwind and escape the stresses of modern-day life. The quaint hinterland town is situated just an hour inland from Brisbane and offers a range of outdoor activities, natural attractions, charming local shops, and award-winning wineries.
One of the main attractions of Tamborine is the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Witches Falls hiking trail is one of the most popular hikes in the area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges and forests. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. We loved spending an afternoon on the forest floor, the trees are incredibly large and stunning. The Witches Falls National Park is also home to several other hiking trails, including the Cedar Creek Falls Track and the Palm Grove Circuit, which offer equally stunning views and challenging terrain.
Aside from hiking, Tamborine is also a great place to relax and unwind. The town's picturesque downtown area features charming local shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere. We spent a morning walking around the shops with a latte in hand and purchased a beautiful bouquet and some locally made candles. It’s only about a ten-minute walk from one end of the town to the other.
If you're a wine lover, Tamborine is also an excellent destination to explore. The area is home to several award-winning wineries, including the Witches Falls Winery, which offers wine tastings and guided tours. We spent an afternoon cozied up to a giant indoor fireplace while tasting their different red varieties.
The winery is known for its red wines, which are made using locally-grown grapes and traditional winemaking techniques. If you're looking to sample a variety of wines, a wine tour is a great way to explore multiple local wineries and vineyards.
For nature lovers, a visit to the Glow Worm Caves is a must-see attraction in Tamborine. Glow worms are only found in Australia and New Zealand. The caves are home to thousands of live glow worms, which create a mesmerizing light display that is both fascinating and magical. The caves are open daily, and guided tours are available throughout the day. You’ll watch a short educational video and venture through the dark cave with dim flashlight necklaces.
If you're looking to stay overnight in Tamborine, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from cozy cottages to luxury lodges. Our good friends recommended the Witches Falls Cottages, where we stayed during our visit. Our cottage was so charming, we had a fireplace, a kitchenette, and a giant outdoor tub. They brought us fresh biscuits and a warm breakfast in a basket each morning and a free wine voucher for the Witches Falls Winery.
The cottages are located in a serene and peaceful setting, surrounded by lush gardens and scenic views of the mountain ranges. They were cozy and comfortable, with all the modern amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel.
Because I always miss Mexican food, we went to El Burro Cantina. The menu featured a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas, all made using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. It felt so authentically Mexican, and sort of out of place in the Australian hinterland, but it’s totally worth a stop.
In short, Tamborine Mountain is a hidden gem in Queensland that offers a perfect weekend escape for anyone looking to unwind and explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or a wine enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Tamborine. With its stunning scenery, charming local shops, and award-winning wineries, Tamborine Mountain is a must-visit destination in Queensland that is sure to leave a lasting impression.