Where is Mt Tamborine?
Mt Tamborine is a mountain located in the Gold Coast hinterland in South East Queensland, Australia.
It is approximately 30 kilometers from the Gold Coast and around 70 kilometers from Brisbane.
The mountain is part of the Scenic Rim Regional Council and is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, boutique shops, wineries, and gourmet food. With an elevation of 525 meters above sea level, Mt Tamborine offers fresh mountain air and cooler temperatures than the coast, making it an ideal place to escape the heat and urban life.
Things to see and do
Glow Worm Caves
The Glow Worm Caves are located in the Cedar Creek Estate vineyard in the outskirts of Mount Tamborine, and it is a unique attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to experience the magic of the glow worms in their natural habitat. The cave tour takes about 45 minutes and the experience information is provided by the knowledgeable guides of the estate.
The Glow Worm Caves are home to thousands of tiny, bioluminescent insects that emit a blue-green light that looks like a starry night sky in the darkness of the cave. Visitors are led through the winding caves, taking in the amazing sights and learning about the fascinating life cycle of these small creatures.
The cave temperature stays constant throughout the year, making it the perfect home for these beautiful and unique insects. The experience is suitable for all ages, with a walkway through the cave for easy accessibility.
Before or after the cave tour, visitors can also relax in the beautiful and serene setting that Cedar Creek Estate has to offer, indulge in wine tasting or try playing putt-putt golf.
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a unique eco-tourism experience set in the beautiful rainforest canopy on Mount Tamborine. The skywalk offers a beautiful and unique perspective of the rainforest that you might not get on a normal ground-level walk.
Visitors begin the journey by walking across the suspension bridge, then following a path through the rainforest canopy where you get to walk above the rainforest floor on a solid steel structure with railings on both sides, making it safe for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
The entire walk takes about 45 minutes allowing visitors to enjoy the variety of plants, trees and wildlife from the local area such as the colourful birds or watch kookaburras and lorikeets. There are multiple viewing decks dotted along the way that offers fantastic views at different heights, you can observe some of the best views of the rainforest waterfalls, creek and valleys.
At the end of the skywalk, visitors can enjoy the gift shop, bird feeding, butterfly garden, and a delicious meal or a light snack at the eco-friendly Rainforest Cafe which offers a serene and natural atmosphere.
The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk offers visitors a chance to connect with nature, educate themselves on the unique environment on Mount Tamborine and appreciate the beauty of the rainforest from a different perspective.
Waterfalls near Mt Tamborine
Curtis Falls
Curtis Falls is a beautiful waterfall located deep in the heart of the Mount Tamborine rainforest. It is a popular natural attraction which can be accessed via several walking tracks that lead through the mountainside bushland.
The waterfall itself cascades approximately 15 meters over a small cliff, creating a serene and peaceful environment that is perfect for a relaxing morning or afternoon stroll in nature.
The track to Curtis Falls includes several viewing platforms that offer views of the surrounding valley and the waterfalls itself. It is a relatively easy walk that takes about 20-30 minutes each way, and it’s suitable for all ages.
Visitors to Curtis Falls may also have the chance to see some of the unique wildlife that call Mount Tamborine home, such as the vibrant birds, tiny sugar gliders, and other small mammals.
The best time to visit Curtis Falls is during the rainy season or directly after heavy rainfall when the waterfall is at its most spectacular. However, be careful when walking as the track can become slippery after a storm.
Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls is a popular natural attraction located in the Tamborine National Park in the Gold Coast hinterland. It is located about 25 minutes drive from Mount Tamborine and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The falls are known for their natural beauty, with crystal clear water cascading down a series of rock pools into a large swimming hole, surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest.
The walk down to the falls is well-maintained and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is an easy to moderate walk down to the falls, with plenty of opportunities to take in the views and the sounds of the rainforest. Once you’ve reached the bottom, there are picnic tables and a large swimming hole to cool off on a hot day.
Visitors are advised to take extra caution, and to be aware of slippery rocks and fast-moving currents.
Witches Falls
Witches Falls is a national park located on Mount Tamborine in South East Queensland, Australia. The park features walking tracks, waterfalls, birdwatching and wildlife experiences, along with stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and valleys.
One of the most popular walking trails in the park is the Witches Falls circuit walk. This walking track is approximately 4.4 km and leads to the Witches Falls lookout, where visitors can take in the beautiful view of the waterfall and the surrounding rainforest.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, the park is home to a variety of bird species, including the regent bowerbird, Australian king parrot, satin bowerbird, and eastern whipbird. The park also offers birdwatching tours led by experienced guides to help visitors spot and identify the birds in the area.
Other activities in the park includes bushwalking, picnicking, taking nature walks and admiring the flora and fauna. During summer months, visitors can also swim in a naturally formed rock pool at Cedar Creek Falls which is adjacent to the park.
Witches Falls national park is an excellent place for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty that Mt Tamborine has to offer. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a bird watcher or someone who just enjoys picnicking with family or friends, this park definitely offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
Lookouts
Mount Tamborine is home to some of the most breathtaking views in all of Queensland, and there are several lookouts where visitors can enjoy the view. Here are some of the best lookouts to visit:
The Knoll – A popular lookout that offers panoramic views of the valley and the skyline. The Knoll is located at the end of Knoll Road, and there is a picnic area nearby with barbeque pits available for use.
Rotary Lookout – This lookout offers expansive views of the surrounding area, including the Gold Coast skyline, and the vast greenery of the hinterland.
Each one has its own unique beauty and character, making them worth visiting for their spectacular views.
Places to stay – Mt Tamborine Accommodation
Mt Tamborine Hotels
Sure, here are some popular hotels and accommodations in the Mt Tamborine area:
The Escarpment Retreat & Spa – A romantic and private escape that offers beautiful accommodation, a rejuvenating spa, and stunning rainforest views.
Pethers Rainforest Retreat – A boutique hotel that offers rainforest chalets and treehouses, fine dining, and a relaxing spa.
Songbirds Rainforest Retreat – A beautiful boutique resort offering luxury villas set amongst rainforest and waterfalls, along with a restaurant.
Cedar Creek Lodges – A family-friendly resort offering a range of accommodations, including lodges, villas, and a camping area, along with plenty of outdoor activities.
The Polish Place – A unique hotel that offers romantic mountain chalets with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the Gold Coast skyline.
The Escarpment Luxury Lodge – A stylish and contemporary lodge that offers beautiful rooms with private balconies, a spacious lounge area and a heated pool.
Mt Tamborine Stonehaven Guest House – A charming Victorian-style guest house that offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a delicious breakfast.
Mt Tamborine Motel – A cozy motel located in the heart of the town that offers clean and comfortable rooms, along with friendly service.
These are just a few of the many fantastic hotels and accommodations in the Mt Tamborine area. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly resort, or a cozy motel, there’s something for everyone.
Mt Tamborine Motels
Sure, here are some motels in the Mt Tamborine area:
Mt Tamborine Motel – A centrally located motel that offers comfortable rooms, friendly service, and scenic mountain views.
Aaronlee Retreat – A family-friendly motel that offers self-contained apartments, a swimming pool, and a large outdoor area that’s perfect for picnics and barbecues.
Bearded Dragon Hotel – A quirky motel located on the scenic route, with comfortable rooms, a restaurant and a sports bar.
Stonehaven Guest House – A Victorian-style guest house that offers comfortable and affordable rooms and breakfast.
Mt Tamborine Stonehaven Guest House – A charming motel that is centrally located and offers clean and comfortable rooms, alongside beautiful gardens.
These motels are ideal for those seeking basic yet comfortable accommodations in the mountains. Each motel offers a unique experience, with scenic views and friendly service.
Bed and Breakfasts
Here are some bed and breakfasts in the Mt Tamborine area:
Wallaby Ridge Retreat – A beautiful, self-contained cabin retreat situated on 55 acres of pasture and forest, offering exquisite views and the company of kangaroos and koalas.
Witches Falls Cottages – A romantic escape that offers private self-contained cottages with spa baths, log fires, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Curtis Falls Mountain Spa Retreat – Offering private cottages with spa baths, log fires, and beautiful views of the forest and waterfalls, this retreat is perfect for romantic getaways.
Mountain Sanctuary B&B – A cozy bed and breakfast that offers comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a beautiful garden.
Avocado Sunset B&B – A beautifully restored Queensland home that offers romantic rooms with private balconies, a hot tub, and beautiful views of the valley.
The Cottage B&B – offering private, self-contained holiday accommodation in a charming cottage, with beautiful views of the gardens and orchards.
These bed and breakfasts are perfect for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience with beautiful surroundings and a comfortable stay.
Holiday Houses
Here are some holiday houses in the Mt Tamborine area:
Hampton Estate – A luxurious and spacious holiday house that features six bedrooms, a private pool, a spa, and stunning mountain views.
Lisson Grove Accommodation – A stunning and private holiday house that features three bedrooms, a fireplace, a heated plunge pool, and a large outdoor area.
Clouds on Beechmont – An architecturally designed holiday house featuring plenty of open space, floor-to-ceiling windows, and panoramic mountain views.
Seaview Farm Retreat – A peaceful and serene holiday house that features three bedrooms, a fireplace, a large outdoor area, and stunning views of the valley and ocean.
The Polish Place – A unique holiday house that offers private mountain chalets with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and Gold Coast skyline.
The Cottage at Canungra – A charming holiday house that features two bedrooms, a fireplace, and a beautiful garden, located close to the charming town of Canungra.
These holiday houses are ideal for families or groups looking for a more independent experience. Each house comes with its own unique amenities and stunning views, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Places to eat
Cafes
Some popular cafes in the Mt Tamborine area include:
- Spice of Life Cafe & Deli
- Mountain Brew Coffee – A cozy cafe that offers gourmet coffee, homemade cakes, and light meals.
- The Treehouse – A charming cafe built around a giant fig tree, offering breakfast, lunch, and coffee.
- Wild Plum Kitchen
- Tamborine Mountain Coffee Plantation
- Cafe Bravo – A cafe that offers breakfast, lunch, and coffee, with outdoor seating and live music on weekends.
Restaurants
Here are some popular restaurants in the Mt Tamborine area:
Songbirds Rainforest Retreat Restaurant – A fine dining restaurant that prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a contemporary Australian cuisine.
The Polish Place – This restaurant offers authentic Polish cuisine and stunning views of the Gold Coast skyline.
Pethers Rainforest Restaurant – A restaurant that combines contemporary Australian cuisine with Asian and European influences, set amidst the tranquil rainforest.
Masala Shanti Indian Restaurant – A popular Indian restaurant that serves traditional curry dishes and tandoori breads.
St Bernard’s Hotel – A cozy hotel with a restaurant that offers Australian pub fare, steak, pizza and pasta.
The Bavarian Grill Haus – A German restaurant that serves authentic Bavarian food and beers, set in a beautiful, heritage-listed building.
The Eagle Heights Mountain Resort – The restaurant offers both indoor seating and alfresco dining with beautiful views over the Gold Coast.
Three Little Pigs Bar & Bistro – This restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh and local produce.
Witches Falls Winery – A beautiful winery that offers a fine dining experience, with a menu that changes seasonally, using fresh produce from the region.