The scenic hinterland

Starting in Brisbane, head north through Enoggera until you find yourself in Samford Village – a charming, bustling town with country roots. Popular for motorcyclists and day trippers, Samford Village boasts a number of great eateries for coffee or breakfast, including The Little Tree Bake and Brew House, Kenilworth Samford Bakery, Samford Patisserie & Cafe and for the Harry Potter lovers, The Owlery. Fuel up, then head back out on the road.

Fancy a rainforest walk? Detour towards Mount Glorious and wander the Greenes Falls Track among others. An easy four-kilometre trek surrounded by lush greenery, definitely worth the diversion as you’ll have to pass back through Samford Village to continue north. 

The next must-stop spot on your journey north is Dayboro. As you pass through this historic village, jump out the car and take the self-walk trail between the 18 heritage buildings, visit the Dayboro Art Gallery, seek out some antiques, or head out on a horse ride. Slickers Horse Riding do trail rides around the area, including from the property to the classic Crown Hotel pub.

Back in the car, because lunch and a glass of locally produced wine is calling. Ocean View Estates is an award-winning winery and brewery with a top-notch restaurant and breath-taking views of the hinterland estate. You can order a picnic hamper to enjoy among the vines or taste a drop and stock up at the cellar door. An alternative lunch stop is Birches Restaurant a little further along the road at Mount Mee.

Get a taste of nature as you venture towards D’Aguilar National Park and discover a wide range of walks and trails that you can take. Many are only a few kilometres long and are perfect to do in the shade of the afternoon. Alternatively, start to make your way to the coastline and stop in at White Ridge Farm for the ultimate farm animal experience.

Catch the sea breeze 

Jump out at Crockatt Park in Woody Point and stretch your legs. If you’re seeking breakfast to start your day, The Belvedere is a favourite for fresh produce and smooth coffee with an ocean view. After breakfast, take a walk down to the base of the Woody Point Cliffs to the HMQS Gayundah shipwreck – the rusting shell of a gunboat which has been beached since 1958 and is worth the time to check out.

Take the coastal road past Sutton’s Beach and Settlement Cove (jump out for a dip in the man-made lagoon), then stop at Redcliffe Jetty and wander along the iconic pier. Stop in at The Komo for a touch of lunch and a cold drink as you enjoy the bay breeze.

Cruise on up to Scarborough where kids young and old can conquer the seven seas at Pirate Playground, before taking the road up towards Sandstone Point.

This area is home to the epic Sandstone Point Hotel, known for its big events, oyster bar and rolling green hills down to the water, it’s the perfect spot for a sunset dinner.

Last, but certainly not least, cross the bridge over to Bribie Island and settle into island time. If you arrive whilst the sun is still up, there are plenty of activities you can do for a day full of fun. Head over to the eastern side at Woorim and have a dip at one of Moreton Bay’s favourite beaches. Up the romance with a Bribie Island Gondola Cruise that takes you along the very scenic Pumicestone Passage or just drive along the beaches in a 4WD.

If you’re looking to make a weekend, or even a weeklong adventure through the Moreton Bay region, find your perfect accommodation to rest your head amongst all the activity.