From the rugged mountains and enchanting rainforests of the Scenic Rim, family-owned nature-based tour operator ParkTours has guided small group walking adventures to national parks and natural areas around Australia and the world since 1975.
Their Australian walking holidays range from day trips; three to four-day short breaks; one week hiking tours, to extended walking holidays of two to three weeks. ParkTours also arrange special interest tours including birding, wildlife, food and wine, and wellbeing adventures.
Discover fascinating destinations on easy to medium grade walks. Travel between destinations in private transport. Relax and unwind at the end of the day in comfortable, well-appointed accommodation. Most meals are included, with a focus on local cuisine and regional produce. ParkTours' guides are experienced and always have their guests' comfort and energy levels in mind.
ECO Certified ParkTours is dedicated to fostering connections between individuals and the natural world, as well as among fellow travellers. Part of their mission is to cultivate a more equitable and inclusive world, one tour at a time; recently launching their first day tour which has been designed to welcome blind and low vision travellers as well as sighted guests - Forest and Flavours (A Guided Day Trip of Sensory Discovery).
Their office is located in Australia's Gold Coast hinterland on beautiful Tamborine Mountain.
This walking and wellbeing short break features the rainforests of Main Range and the balancing boulders of Girraween National Park in Southern Queensland's Granite Belt. From Brisbane, we travel southwest to Main Range National Park for rainforest walks with the option to climb Mt Cordeaux then stop for some Granite Belt wine-tasting.
South of Stanthorpe, Girraween National Park is famous for its granite domes, improbable balancing boulders and exquisitely water-worn creek forms. We spend three nights in the comfortable and spacious accommodation of Girraween Environmental Lodge. Enjoy cool nights, a spa and pool, and abundant wildlife around the lodge. Walks lead us to fascinating underground creeks, magnificent granite outcrops, and lookouts over the eucalypt forests and heathlands.
Each day, we will offer a selection of popular and lesser-known walks with options to hike as much or as little as you prefer. During our stay, we enhance our connection to body, mind, and nature, with two optional yoga classes and a night stroll. There’s also time to explore the towns of Tenterfield and Stanthorpe. Our final walk is to the largest exposed granite monolith in Australia, at Bald Rock National Park with spectacular views and quiet picnic spots.
The majestic Bunya Mountains is a spectacular wilderness in an isolated section of the Great Dividing Range. We begin with two nights here amongst the cool eucalypt forests and woodlands, home to the world's largest forest of bunya pines, and take in the panoramic mountain scenery of the South Burnett region. Travelling via the home of the infamous Woodford Festival, we spend the next two days in one of Queensland's most iconic beach destinations, Noosa, where you can explore the National Park and enjoy some of Queensland's best cuisine. Our next two nights are spent at the charming coastal town of Bargara. We stroll along the Burnett River, wander through the lush botanical gardens, and visit the iconic Bundaberg Rum Distillery. A day cruise to Lady Musgrave, the jewel of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, gives you a chance to snorkel over healthy coral reefs teeming with marine life. Before returning south, we visit Mon Repos Turtle Centre, dedicated to marine turtle research, protection, and education. Our final two nights are spent in the Sunshine Hinterland town of Montville at a tranquil eco-retreat. Gentle walks include Kondalilla National Park in the scenic Blackall Range, along with Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.
Price: $5490Make a pilgrimage to the heart of the Gondwana rainforests on one of Queensland’s long-distance hiking trails. Spend three days walking the highlights of this 54km trail with the comfort of luggage transfers and walking only with a day pack. Traverse the mountains, World Heritage listed rainforest and hidden valleys of Lamington and Springbrook National Parks. From O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, we walk 21km through the Green Mountain section of Lamington following sections of the QLD / NSW border. Based for two nights at the Binna Burra Sky Lodge, we explore the Lower Ballanjui Circuit with lookouts over the eastern side of Lamington National Park. Admire the stands of flooded gums, brushbox and piccabeen groves on the way to lunch at the base of Ballanjui Falls. Leaving Lamington plateau, we travel by bus via Numinbah valley viewing Kurraragin (Egg Rock), a remnant plug from the Tweed shield volcano, Wollumbin (Mt Warning). Our final day at Springbrook National Park includes the option of two waterfall circuit walks – to the cool spray of Purling Brook Falls via Warringah Pools followed by the spectacular Twin Falls Circuit before returning to the Gold Coast.
Price: $1579Alcheringa Holiday Houses and the Binna Burra Sky Lodges are your base for this small group getaway. Relax in these passive-solar, architect-designed buildings. Enjoy stunning walks with our highly experienced guide through World Heritage listed Lamington National Park. Soak your muscles in the magnesium spa at the end of the day or relax with a good book and stunning valley views. Local produce features highly on the daily menu with all meals and snacks included. Walking options include the Lower Ballanjui Circuit with lookouts over the eastern side of Lamington National Park. Admire the stands of flooded gums, brushbox, and piccabeen groves on the way to lunch at the base of Ballanjui Falls. We also see the spectacle of Coomera Falls from a dramatic viewpoint. Another day is focused on walks at Springbrook National Park including Purling Brook Falls and Best of All lookouts, the Twin Falls Circuit, and a night walk at Natural Arch to see the glow-worms. The itinerary is flexible to allow for weather, waterfalls and your walking preferences.
Price: $2730Nestled in the heart of Queensland's Scenic Rim, this enchanting destination offers the perfect balance of nature, relaxation, community engagement, and culinary pleasures. Spend time exploring the lush rainforest on a relaxed trail walk which offers a rich sensory experience. Feel the varied textures of the forest; the vast intricate root systems of the gigantic strangler figs underfoot; fresh trickling creek water; refreshing rainforest air, and immerse yourself in the rich sounds of wildlife. Connect with the rhythms of nature during an exclusive sound meditation session. Take part in a private sensory workshop where you'll explore natural aromas, tastes, and textures. Savour every moment as you meet local artisans and producers, sampling their expertly crafted wines, gins, cheese, and other gourmet delight, immersing yourself in the vibrant flavours of the region. Discover the stories behind these exquisite creations and enjoy experiences that connect you to the community and the land. This unforgettable day trip promises a perfect blend of indulgence, discovery, and inspiration.
Price: $299