How to have the ultimate 4-day adventure in South East Queensland

Bid hello to your four-day adventure across South East Queensland, a chance to take in its key sights and sounds and have plenty of fun along the way. You’ll begin at the southern end of the state, at the vibrant playground that is the Gold Coast. There’s plenty in store for you here - a stretch of world-famous sandy beaches, family-friendly theme parks, and idyllic rainforests galore. In short, there’s plenty to do.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon getting better acquainted with the local dining scene. The region’s food hub is considered to be charismatic Burleigh, a petite village with an ever-growing population of cafes, bars, and eateries. Drop by for a beer at the beachfront Burleigh Pavilion, indulge in some creative cocktails at the renowned Rick Shores, or make it a meal to remember at the illustrious Restaurant Labart.

Evening

Check in at your chosen abode for the next two nights - the QT Gold Coast. The eclectic hotel has amassed an impressive reputation for itself thanks to its winning combination of outlandish design and ample amenities. Sitting on the beachfront, this luxurious accommodation option boasts 297 different rooms, many of which offer ocean views. And that’s not mentioning the outdoor pool and spa, duo of tennis courts, undercover and valet parking, and luxury day spa spaQ.

Day two

Morning

Welcome the day with a truly surreal experience at the SkyPoint Observation Deck located at the iconic Q1 building in Surfers Paradise. Here you can soak in 360-degree views of the Gold Coast at 230m above sea level. For those keen to take the SkyPoint experience to the next level, the SkyPoint Climb is for you. Adventure seekers can join a guide to climb another 40m above ground to the crows nest on Australia's highest external climb. 

Afternoon

Make your way back to the QT Gold Coast to spend an afternoon at rest by the pool. If you’re feeling famished you’ll be able to stop in at resident restaurant Yamagen for Japanese inspired fare in seriously suave surroundings - this is the Gold Coast’s first fine dining Japanese restaurant and a must-visit for any four-day run through South East Queensland. Finish off with a tipple at the neighbouring Stingray, a Californian drinking den with more than 50 in-house tequilas served with Baja Californian bites.

Keen to keep the Gold Coast adventures going before you move on? Check out this 48-hour guide to the Gold Coast for thrill-seekers.

Day three

Morning

Hit the bitumen post-breakfast, making your way up into the hills to the rural centre of Grandchester. It’s here you’ll find luxury retreat Spicers Hidden Vale, one of the best accommodation options in Queensland. The suave property specialises in helping its guests fully immerse themselves in the luscious surrounding landscape.

Not to mention your stay also includes access to its adored fine dining in-house restaurants, like the award-winning Homage restaurant, a place which grows plenty of its produce onsite thanks to the adjoining market gardens.

Afternoon

Explore Spicers Hidden Vale’s Adventure Park - 12,000 acres of Australian bush (or at least some of it) with a mountain bike along its 110 kilometres (plus) of biking trails, which cater to all ages and abilities. After some more activities? You’re in luck. There's plenty more to do while you’re here, including bush-walking, swimming, croquet and a chance to visit the on-site wildlife centre.

Evening

After a day of working up a sweat, kick back and relax come evening with a stay in one of the retreat’s stylish rooms. Accommodation includes heritage cottages with one to four bedrooms, as well as all of the mod cons (air con included), verandahs, and access to the nearby heated pool and spa.

Day four

Morning

The Queensland capital of Brisbane beckons, with plenty of adventure to be had. It’s time to hit the road and mosey your way the hour-long drive towards the bright lights of the CBD. It’s at the inner-city suburb of Kangaroo Point that you’ll be given a chance to introduce yourself to the city’s most famous resident - the Brisbane River.

Join Riverlife Adventure Centre for a chance to paddle down its length, taking a leisurely kayak through the heart of the Sunshine State’s largest city, and getting a good look at the historic buildings and architectural feats along the way.

But your adventure doesn't stop there - just off Brisbane's coastline lies the island adventure playground of Mulgumpin (Moreton Island). Tangalooma will transfer you there by heli, giving you more time for island activities in addition to thrill-factor. Spend the afternoon quad biking across the dunes or exploring the famous shipwrecks, before relaxing with a well-deserved sunset drink on the resort's rooftop deck.

Looking for more exciting adventure experiences right across Queensland? Check out more epic must-dos here.