Top 5 things to do in the Scenic Rim

Rolling mountain ranges, fertile farmland, charming country towns and winding scenic roads — the Scenic Rim is a destination made for slow travel and curious explorers. Whether you’re travelling by caravan, campervan or with the family in tow, this naturally spectacular region just south of Brisbane and west of the Gold Coast, offers an ever-changing mix of adventure, relaxation and discovery.

From rainforest walks and farm-fresh food to boutique shopping and unforgettable experiences, here are five must-do ways to make the most of your time in the Scenic Rim.

The Scenic Rim lives up to its name, offering an incredible range of walking tracks that invite visitors to step outside, slow down and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a challenging hike, there’s something to suit every ability and appetite for adventure.

In the east, lush rainforest landscapes dominate, with walking tracks through Lamington and Tamborine National Parks revealing ancient trees, cascading creeks and birdlife at every turn. These cooler, shaded walks are ideal for warmer months and offer plenty of short options for those travelling with children.

Head west and the landscape changes dramatically, with rugged peaks, open bushland and sweeping views across valleys and farmland. More demanding hikes reward walkers with panoramic vistas and a true sense of escape. For seasoned hikers, the region also offers multi-day walks that immerse you fully in the natural environment.

No matter where you explore, walking in the Scenic Rim is about more than exercise — it’s a chance to unplug, breathe deeply and experience the remarkable diversity of the region.

The Scenic Rim is a food lover’s paradise, where fertile soils, passionate producers and talented chefs come together to create memorable dining experiences. From refined restaurants, relaxed country cafés, to welcoming local pubs, the region offers something for every palate.

Fine dining shines at venues such as Blume at Boonah, Main Street Provedore and St Marthe on Tamborine Mountain, where menus celebrate seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful craftsmanship. These destinations are perfect for long lunches or special dinners after a day of exploring.

For a dining experience with a view, paired with the perfect drop, try Roast Beef and the Frog near Wyaralong Dam delivering their unique style of French and English fusion in a remarkable lakeside setting — ideal for travellers looking to refuel and unwind.

Across the Scenic Rim, a thriving café culture adds to the region’s charm. Expect friendly service, generous portions and classic country hospitality. The vibrant pub scene will certainly not disappoint. With publicans waiting to be discovered right across the region, offering their own unique style of service and pub grub.

There is so much to explore for food across the Scenic Rim, whether you’re stopping in a small town or a mountain village.

Wine, spirits and craft beer are woven into the Scenic Rim experience, with wineries and distilleries dotted throughout the region.

Enjoy tasting flights at well-known producers such as Witches Falls Winery, Kooroomba, Canungra Valley Vineyards and The Cauldron Distillery, each offering their own unique setting and style. Beer lovers can settle in at Fortitude Brewing Co, while those keen to explore something different can sample camel milk vodka at Summer Land Camels.

Distillery tours, guided tastings and even gin-making classes add an interactive element to your visit, making these stops about more than just what’s in the glass. For a classic country pub experience, the Commercial Hotel Boonah is a favourite place to relax and mingle with locals, or try the Bearded Dragon Hotel in Tamborine for cheeky views of the mountain from their extensive beer garden.

Shopping in the Scenic Rim is refreshingly personal, with independent retailers offering unique finds, warm welcomes and genuine country charm.

In Canungra, My Country Escape showcases true rural hospitality alongside carefully curated wares that make perfect gifts or additions to tasteful wardrobe collections. Over in Boonah, Duck Junction offers a delightful mix of homewares, gifts and local flair, while Tamborine Mountain is home to standout stores such as e360 and Under the Greenwood Tree, specialising in art, homewares and beautifully crafted pieces.

What ties these retail experiences together is a sense of place — personalised service, thoughtful styling and a relaxed pace that invites you to browse, chat and linger a little longer.

The Scenic Rim is rich in experiences that turn a holiday into a story you’ll tell for years to come. Adventurous travellers can ride a camel at Summer Land Camels just outside of Harrisville, soar above the rainforest on the Canyon Flyer Zipline Tour in Tamborine Mountain, or take to the skies with hot air ballooning over patchwork farmland outside of Canungra.

There are glow-worm caves to explore, scenic back roads to follow, hidden swimming holes to discover and picnic spots best reached by electric bike with Peddly Picnics. Thrill-seekers can try parasailing, while those craving calm can simply camp beneath the stars and wake to birdsong.

The beauty of the Scenic Rim lies in its freedom — freedom to roam, to explore, and to discover something new around every bend. Seeking more inspiration? Check out these itineraries to make your Scenic Rim stay a truly memorable experience.