List
By Sarah Bristow
Soak up the sights and sounds of the ancient forest while you’re here in Queensland. Our state is home to some of the oldest and most ecologically diverse pockets of foliage in the globe - while the Daintree Rainforest belongs on every bucket list, so too does a trip to the Gondwana Rainforests. Picture the most extensive area of subtropical rainforest in the world, a World Heritage site of 50 separate reservations totalling 366,500 hectares, and home to more than 4000 species of wildlife. A region that dates back to the prehistoric period, but is conveniently only a short drive from the Queensland capital of Brisbane.
Containing four separate national parks - Lamington, Springbrook, Mount Barney, and Main Range - the best way to get to know this region rich in biodiversity is with one of the many Gondwana Rainforest guided tours. The following are stand-outs:
Get to know Lamington National Park’s most famous resident with a trip to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. The eco-accredited operator remains proudly family run, with the third generation of O’Reilly’s today leading a slew of Gondwana Rainforest guided tours. On this family friendly offering, let the team lead you by specialty bus through rainforests, walking trails and waterfalls for the day. Post-adventure stop by the adjoining Canungra Valley Vineyard for a wine with the resident alpacas, and a wander along the venue’s famed Tree Top Walk.
Arguably the most memorable of all the Gondwana Rainforest tours is this segway-led foray through Lamington and its surrounds. You’ll climb aboard your own eco-friendly four-wheel-drive vehicle for hands-on safety training, before you test your balance and agility along Nerang Beaudesert Road and make your way into the surrounding foliage for a truly unforgettable foray through the forest. Keep in mind that passengers must be aged 12 and over, and be wearing enclosed shoes and helmets for safety.
Prepare for a day of adrenaline-filled adventure with a 4WD tour through the back tracks of the hinterland. In small groups you’ll rumble your way along the remote trails that wind their way through the luscious foliage on a half day Springbrook National Park tour, taking in a cluster of iconic waterfalls and panoramic lookouts. Afternoon tea, guided walks, tour commentary and hotel pickup and drop off is all conveniently also included to make your trip all the more comfortable.
Gather your family for a day’s frolic among the natural wonders of Springbrook as a part of this Gondwana Rainforest guided tour. You’ll follow a knowledgeable local guide for a day of easy bush walks and hikes through ancient forest, and a handful of famed landmarks include the Natural Bridge and Cedar Creek rock pools. But the best part is arguably the finale at dusk, when you have a chance to greet the adored glow worms at Mount Tamborine.
If you’ve found yourself searching for a Gondwana guided rainforest tour suited to families you may well be in luck - Mount Barney Lodge hosts a series of family-focused offerings, including this one for ages 10 and above. Mt Gillies maze of rocky outcrops make for some child-appropriate clambering opportunities - you and your kin will join a team of experienced guides to scramble the rocks, gazing at wildflowers and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Embrace an adventure in the dark with this particularly memorable journey through Mount Barney (and beyond). Mid-afternoon you’ll depart in order to be able to take in the rise of the moon from Mount Maroon. Standing at 964 metres, this volcanic peak proudly forms a part of the McPherson Ranges, and provides staggering views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay. In even better news, you’ll also be rewarded post-hike with dinner and snacks.
Photo by @visitscenicrim
History buffs are best suited to this Gondwana Rainforest guided tour, one of the most historically interesting circuits on the range (or so they say). You’ll commence your 8 kilometre journey at Spicer’s Gap picnic area, taking a gander at pioneer graves before you make your way up along the mountains, where you’ll be treated to views of the Great Dividing Range.