Venture off the beaten track on these epic Queensland adventures

Think you know Queensland? Although known for its incredible icons including the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and award-winning beaches, there’s plenty to explore underneath the surface – and a road trip is the perfect way to dive in.

Why visit Queensland in autumn and winter?

While there's a year-round great climate to boast about, the autumn and winter seasons in Queensland are truly a special time to visit. With gentler crowds, you can make your holiday stretch even further thanks to the number of holiday deals available.

Embrace the cooler temperatures and the tranquillity that comes from taking a getaway during Queensland’s quieter months (March – August) and explore the state’s must-do experiences off the beaten track. Whether you’re setting out for a day, a week, or a month, there are plenty of unexpected moments to fill your cup while discovering somewhere new.

And if you’re looking for the best events of the season, check out these must-do autumn and winter events in Queensland.

When you picture the Gold Coast, squeaky white sand, towering skyscrapers, and a roaring atmosphere may come to mind, but just a 50-minute drive away, you’ll discover the lesser-known, serene hideaway that is Mt Tamborine.

The popular Curtis Falls may be top of mind, but there are more than luscious waterfalls (although they certainly should be included on your list) here. For an out-of-the-box experience, visit the Glow Worm Caves, one of the few places in Australia where you can see their magnificence light up in the daytime, before stopping at the Tamborine Mountain Coffee Plantation, where a guided tour will show you how this paddock-to-plate (or in this case, it’s more of a ‘cultivation-to-cup’) plantation grows, picks and roasts their own coffee beans.

If you’re of the mantra that the cooler months are for indulging (and who isn’t?), head to  Witches Fall Winery and build your own cheese platter alongside locally produced wine. For somewhere to stay, rest your head at the adults-only treehouses at Pethers Rainforest Retreat. Set within five hectares of pristine rainforest, here you can spend your morning listening to birdsong on your private balcony or spend your evening in front of the fireplace.

Scenic Rim, Brisbane and Gold Coast

Expand your Queensland getaway to the Scenic Rim. Like name like nature, the Scenic Rim – found just 60 minutes outside of Brisbane – is packed full of spectacular scenery. Home not only to magnificent waterfalls, towering mountain ranges and rainforests whispering with adventure, you’ll find experiences like the Mountview Alpacas (because who hasn’t wanted to walk an alpaca before?).

The Scenic Rim is also famous for its culinary scene. Stop by one of the region’s many farm gates and roadside stalls to fill your picnic hamper with delicious produce before heading to the Rotary Lookout for sunset. This is just one of the activities that makes the Scenic Rim a perfect couples getaway.

For accommodation, book yourself in at one of the Scenic Rim’s tiny homes. Relax at Binna Burra Lodge Tiny Wild Houses, as you overlook the stunning Lamington National Park or spend the night stargazing at Moogie Pod with floor-to-ceiling windows and your own outdoor firepit and barbecue.

While the Sunshine Coast typically attracts large crowds during the summer, the crowds simmer down at this time of year and it’s a lovely season to visit.  

Follow the classic Sunshine Coast or foodie-inspired road trips, or create your own encompassing Buderim Falls, Eumundi Markets and the charming Montville village.

Eat like a local at the family-owned Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co in Cooran or join Tasty Tours’ small-group day tours to uncover the best of the Sunshine Coast’s homegrown food trails. Once you’re satisfyingly fed and watered, unwind at quaint Queensland accommodation perfect for the season at the sumptuous Mayan Luxe Villas or whimsical Thirlestane Farm Cottage and Barn.

Time your Queensland getaway with the four-day Noosa Eat and Drink festival, held at the end of May.

Atherton Tablelands, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef

Although set within Tropical North Queensland, the Atherton Tablelands sits 1010m above sea level, meaning crisp and cool temperatures are on the cards for your Queensland getaway.

Famed for its seemingly never-ending rolling green hills, the Atherton Tablelands is often best explored by road trip. While the famous Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit is great for Atherton Tablelands first-timers, you’ll be able to discover the lesser-known Atherton Tablelands waterfalls by curating your own road trip through Pepina Falls, Souita Falls and Little Millstream Falls. This quieter time of year signifies the end of the wet season and makes it perfect for visiting Queensland waterfalls in full flow.

Autumn and winter on the Atherton Tablelands is a place for foodies. Taste the local produce at Yungaburra’s market, visit Australia’s oldest coffee plantation, Skybury’s Café and Roastery, tuck into scones at the Lake Barrine Teahouse and enjoy a hearty pub meal at The Ravenshoe Hotel, Queensland’s highest pub.

Tropical Queensland landscapes and dry season colours combine well at both The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses and Mount Quincan Crater Retreat. Relax in comfort surrounded by ancient rainforest while keeping your eye out for local wildlife including cassowaries, possums, and tree kangaroos. Take advantage of the cosy fireplace when the cooler temperatures arrive in the evening.

Stanthorpe, Southern Queensland Country

Found in the most southern section of Queensland, Stanthorpe is a must-visit for those seeking colourful leaves in Queensland (just think of the pictures!).

Embrace the crisp morning air on a scenic hike at Girraween National Park. If you’re more into eating than exerting, take advantage of Stanthorpe’s reputation as a nationally recognised foodie haven where you can taste your way through the handmade jams, farmhouse cheeses, locally cured meats and, of course, the 50 or so vineyards found around Stanthorpe.

Looking for somewhere a little different to stay? Unless you can say you’ve regularly stayed inside a giant wine barrel, the nearby Barrel View Luxury Cabins are what you’re looking for. Enjoy a bottle of wine, within a barrel of wine, overlooking wine country – it doesn’t get more on-brand than this. For accommodation a little closer to town, the Alure Stanthorpe is a luxurious glamping experience where you can enjoy a crackling fire, a private heated outdoor spa and views over the tranquil bushland.

Yearning for more seasonal experiences? Check out the best places to spend autumn in Queensland.