In Brisbane’s backyard you’ll find the Scenic Rim, a region rich in rolling hills, artisan food producers, and natural beauty – and also one of the Top 10 Regions of the World, according to Lonely Planet's 2022 rankings.

While conveniently close to Brisbane City, this country region feels far removed from its neighbouring metropolis. Not sure how to spend your time on your rural escape? Here you’ll find the most unforgettable things to do in the Scenic Rim.

1. Let loose at Scenic Rim Adventure Park

Surround yourself with the great outdoors with a day spent running amok at Scenic Rim Adventure Park. Set on 680 acres, the property boasts 14 campsites, 20 kilometres of off-road 4WD tracks, mountain bike tracks, bushwalking trails, and even a child-friendly maze.

2. Frolic at Kooroomba Lavender Farm

Scenic Rim lavender is rather famous, with the extremely photogenic Kooroomba Lavender Farm a popular tourist attraction. Run through the six hectares of vivid purple fields before enjoying a meal (and a drink) at the accompanying vineyard and restaurant.

3. Fill your bellies at Towri Sheep Cheese

No foodie tour of the Scenic Rim is complete without a visit to the award-winning Towri Sheep Cheeses, the artisan producer set on 300 acres with a purpose-built dairy and homestead. Don’t just look around but get involved, taking part in the cheese-making workshop for the day (available for all ages).

4. Take a tour of Summer Land Camels

Make a visit to the country’s largest camel dairy at Summer Land Camels. Spend the day getting better acquainted with the four-legged residents (camel ride included) before dropping in to the accompanying cafe to enjoy a camel milk gelato and the acclaimed camel-cino.

5. Hit the trails at Hidden Vale Adventure Park

The Scenic Rim has endless hiking trails, but if you prefer to explore on two wheels make your way to Hidden Vale Adventure Park. Here, you can spend the day riding more than 110km of world-class bike trails, with terrain for all ages and abilities. Bike hire is available, as are shuttles to the top if you want to save your energy for the downhill. 

More into Moto? Adrenaline junkies can’t afford to miss a trip to Queensland Moto Park. As its name suggests, this rugged expanse is home to motorcycle tracks for Motocross, Supercross, Freestyle MX, Trails and Enduro, as well as kids Pee-Wee tracks.

6. Indulge in a luxury stay

While adventure awaits in the Scenic Rim, there’s still plenty of indulgence to be had. After a day exploring the region’s peaks, rest your head at one of its more memorable luxury establishments. There's so many opulent options to pick from: a luxury glamping experience at Ketchup's Bank, Queensland's highest retreat at Spicers Peak Lodge, the award-winning Binna Burra Lodge, Spicers Hidden Vale, WanderPods overlooking vineyards and Lake Wyaralong at The Overflow Estate 1895, or an immersive luxury experience at Beechmont Estate. 

7. Uncover the hidden beauty of Tamborine Mountain

Spend the day exploring the six park sections of Tamborine National Park, home to an impressive array of bushwalking tracks and waterfalls, Curtis Falls and Cedar Creek Falls included. As well as child-favourite, the Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves.

Even the streets are beautiful in this neck of the woods. Leave some time to stroll through Tamborine Village and the art-lined Gallery Walk. 

8. Get a taste of country life with a farm stay

Immerse yourself in regional life with a night spent at a farm stay. The Scenic Rim is overflowing with opportunities to pitch in with the farm animals, from working property Tommerup's Dairy Farm, to the macadamia-focused Greenlee Farm & Cottages.

9. Or, get a taste of farm fresh produce at Scenic Rim Farm Shop & Cafe

There's nothing quite like ending a hike or day of exploring than with a locally-grown, home cooked meal. Take a seat under the jacaranda trees at Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Cafe and savour fresh barista-made coffee and all kinds of homemade treats, from slices and cakes to salads and frittatas. Don't leave without a visit to the farm shop for more local produce, cheese and goodies. 

10. Climb into the canopy at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

One of the best things to do in the Scenic Rim is visit O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in the midst of the luscious Lamington National Park. The Queensland icon has tempted visitors for more than 93 years with its 160 kilometres of nature trails, waterfalls, campgrounds, and much-loved Tree Top Walk.

Those who like a little bit of R&R after a day exploring should book a stay at the treetop villas, and a spa treatment too.  

11. Conquer the Scenic Rim’s peaks

It’s in Mount Barney National Park that you’ll find seven different peaks all above a kilometre in height. Pop on your walking boots and hike your way through the likes of Mount Barney, Mount Lindesay, Mount Maroon, Mount May, Mount Ballow, Mount Clunie, and Mount Ernest - your efforts will be rewarded with staggering views from the top.

Nearby, Mount Barney Lodge offers more than camping and homestead accommodation: sign up for guided hikes (ideal if you're unfamiliar with the challenging trails in the area) and a range of adventure activities including rockclimbing, abseiling, bushcraft camps and more. 

12. Soak in wild swimming holes

Prefer swimming holes over summits? Head out for a walk along Lower Portals track in Mount Barney National Park and you'll be rewarded with the opportunity to dip in clear, cool waters surrounded by the beauty of the bush.

It's a 7km, roughly three hour return walk - but pack a picnic lunch and take your time to appreciate your changing surrounds: tall eucalypts, brush box trees and subtropical rainforest.

13. Picnic with the alpacas at Mountview Alpaca Farm

Spend your day surrounded by alpacas and award-winning vino at Mountview Alpaca Farm at Canungra. Nestled into the O’Reilly’s vineyard, it’s here you can grab yourself a bottle of wine and a heaving picnic basket while you cuddle and feed the resident alpacas.

With so many things to do in the Scenic Rim, it might be best to stay a while and explore.

In Brisbane’s backyard you’ll find the Scenic Rim, a region rich in rolling hills and producers. While conveniently close to the capital, this country region feels far removed from its neighbouring metropolis. Not sure how to spend your time on your rural escape? Here you’ll find 11 unforgettable things to do during your time in the Scenic Rim.

1. Let loose at Scenic Rim Adventure Park

Surround yourself with the great outdoors with a day spent running amok at Scenic Rim Adventure Park. Set on 680 acres, the property boasts 14 campsites, 20 kilometres of off-road 4WD tracks, mountain bike tracks, bushwalking trails, and even a child-friendly maze.

2. Frolic at Kooroomba Lavender Farm