Scenic drives in Brisbane
Take the road less travelled and uncover hidden pockets of nature and history on a scenic drive through the Brisbane region. Whether you’d like to stay near Brisbane City or venture further afield, there’s a breath taking route sure to drive you wild and inspire your sense of adventure.
Brisbane City
You don’t need to venture too far from home to discover something new. These scenic drives are just a hop, skip and jump from the heart of Brisbane.
01. Mt Coot-Tha, West Brisbane
Take a scenic cruise up Sir Samuel Griffith Drive and make your way to one of Brisbane’s best lookout spots, Mount Coot-Tha. Starting near the lush Brisbane Botanic Gardens, the winding road takes you through to the incredible views over the city and beyond. Once you reach the top, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the view. Fancy a relaxed bite with a view? Head to The Summit Café for coffee, breakfast, or a casual lunch. Or, take it to the next level at The Summit Restaurant offering a full a la carte dining experience — perfect for sunset dinners or a special night out.
02. Mt Gravatt, South Brisbane
Take a short drive south of Brisbane City to find the leafy suburb of Mount Gravatt. Find unexpecting shops and cafes as you make your way up to Mount Gravatt Lookout, a local secret to one of the spots that offers panoramic scenes of the city skyline. Time your visit for late in the afternoon to be treated with an incredible sunset experience. For those that come by earlier, stop in at the Lovewell Café to enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch while soaking up the sweeping views of the city below.
Scenic Rim
The Scenic Rim is located about an hour’s drive south of the city. As one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 ‘must visit’ regions, make sure you have enough time to explore the World Heritage-listed rainforests and indulge in the delicious, fresh produce this region is renowned for.
3. Canungra, Beechmont and Lamington National Park
From the blissful town of Canungra, drive through the lush bushland along Lamington National Park Road. Keep an eye out as you pass two local wineries, perfect for a quick stop and sip. As you continue on your journey, you’ll explore the World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park or you can escape to a world of crystal-clear creeks and fresh mountain air at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
4. Tamborine Mountain
Get snap-happy along one of Tamborine Mountain’s picturesque drives. Pull up at the popular Rotary Lookout or Hang Glider Launch and Lookout found along Main Western Road that offer spectacular views of the valley below. While you’re there, explore the charming local cafes, boutique shops, art galleries and rainforest walks that make Tamborine Mountain a must-visit destination.
5. Beaudesert and Lost World Valley
The scenic drive from Beaudesert through Lost World Valley at the wilderness end of Lamington National Park is a tranquil one. Drive past The Blue Tree Project, Kamarun Lookout, John Shephard Lookout and Cedar Glen Farmstay to be transported to a breathtaking valley that is the perfect place to go horse riding, milk a cow or adventure on a scenic bushwalk.
6. Mt Barney and Rathdowney
If it is magnificent scenery you’re after, then don’t miss the Boonah-Rathdowney Road that loops between the two towns the road is named after. As you follow the road, you will pass the incredible Mount Barney National Park, Mount Maroon and Lake Maroon.
Moreton Bay Region
Only 30 minutes north of Brisbane you can escape to the Moreton Bay region. Where the countryside meets the bayside, the area offers outstanding views of the bay, beautiful mountain scenery and lush farmland.
7. Northern Moreton Bay Drive
Beginning at the Redcliffe Aerodrome, this relaxing drive takes you to the Redcliffe Botanic Gardens, Redcliffe Art Gallery and Redcliffe Museum. Soak up some local history with a stop at the Sandgate and District Historical Society and Museum before heading to the Shorncliffe Pier for a relaxing afternoon by the bay.
8. Mount Mee – D'Aguilar National Park
Take the picturesque 90-minute drive north-west of Brisbane towards the striking D’Aguilar National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Mount Mee section takes in the northern part of the park and extends to Woodford, looking out towards the Glasshouse Mountains.
9. Mount Glorious and Mount Nebo – D'Aguilar National Park
You can find beautiful and scenic lookouts scattered throughout South D’Aguilar National Park. Head along Mount Nebo Road towards Mount Nebo and Mount Glorious passing by Cedar Creek swimming holes. After exploring natures breathtaking scenery, loop around and visit the charming Samford Village on your way back to Brisbane.
Redlands Coast
The Redlands’ beautiful bayside villages and picturesque islands of Moreton Bay each have their own adventures to offer. An easy 30-minute drive south-east from Brisbane’s City will have you in the heart of the Redlands Coast, ready to explore the history and strong foodie culture.
10. Redland's bay to bush
Begin your journey at Wellington Point’s Recreation Reserve on Main Road,to take in the views of the bay and walk across to King Island during low tide. Next, make your way to Cleveland Point via Shore Street to visit the Old Cleveland Lighthouse a historic site surrounded by sweeping coastal views. Stop in at the iconic Lighthouse Fish N Chippery for a serve of gourmet eats or ice cream treat. For the third Point, head to Victoria Point Jetty where you’ll get a taste of just how close you are to Brisbane’s beautiful bay islands. Making your way from bay to bush, make your way to West Mount Cotton Road for scenic vantage points before travelling with a relaxing stop at Sirromet Winery nestled among the rolling hills, the perfect spot for wine tasting and unwinding.
11. North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah
Drive onto the vehicle ferry and take the car over to North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah for stunning beach views. With your 4WD, you’ll have the freedom to explore the island’s stunning beaches at your own pace. Don’t miss a visit to the Brown Lake, a giant freshwater lake naturally infused with tea tree oils. If you’re visiting between June and November, keep you whales that are often seen offshore during their annual migration.
City of Logan
Just 30 minutes south of central Brisbane, the City of Logan is bursting with things to do, places to see and mouth-watering multicultural eats.
12. Underwood and Slacks Creek
Choose your own adventure and discover Logan’s best-kept secrets as you drive through the streets and back roads of this city . From artisan producers at the Global Food Markets and coffee shops in alley ways to heritage arts and crafts, relaxing wetlands and sprawling parks, there’s always something new and surprising to discover.
13. Beenleigh
Let your stomach be your guide as you indulge in rum, chocolates, honey and strawberries while meandering through the sweeping southern agricultural region of the City of Logan. Refuel at one (or all) of the city’s local sweet spots including Beenleigh Rum Distillery, Poppy’s Chocolates, Bee All Natural, Distillery Road Markets and Chambers Flat Strawberry Farm.
14. Jimboomba
Make your way from Logan Village through Jimboomba and out to Veresdale. As you adventure between the three towns, you will find cute cafes, rustic pubs, rejuvenating spas, and a relaxing country feel.
Ipswich
Ipswich, one of Queensland’s oldest cities, blends rich history as well as a vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal destination for a weekend drive. Located just 40 minutes from Brisbane, Ipswich also serves as a gateway to the neighbouring Scenic Rim region.
15. Rosewood, Marburg and Ipswich
Brisbane Street, in the heart of Ipswich, has one of the longest stretches of heritage facade in Australia. The nearby towns of Rosewood and Marburg offer an insight into the region’s rail history.
