One of Australia's most magnificent natural paradises is just on Brisbane's doorstep. The Scenic Rim is the perfect place to lose yourself in the wilderness and let everyday cares fall away.
Walk your worries away
Strolling through nature is a surefire way to shed stress. And,surrounded by the ancient grandeur of the Scenic Rim's six national parks,worries seem to vanish. There are hikes and trails for all abilities,from gentle meanders through eucalyptus forests and palm groves to challenging treks up steep climbs and ridges.
You can walk for hours,days or even a full five days,if you try Spicers Scenic Rim trail’s newest itinerary — which will open in April 2020 and has been lauded as one of the largest eco-tourism projects to open in Queensland. This unforgettable expedition traverses the magnificent Main Range National Park,part of the unique Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area,and includes retreat,glamping and farmhouse accommodation along with up-close encounters with unique flora and fauna and breathtaking panoramas from private vantage points.
Let nature heal your soul
Nature's extraordinary restorative power is undeniable. In Japan,"forest bathers"have traditionally boosted their wellbeing by spending time among trees,and the practice has taken off around the world,with progressive doctors even prescribing nature time.
Fortunately,it's easy for most Australians to escape into nature. Queensland’s Scenic Rim is a stunning example of a wilderness backyard for city dwellers;just an hour and a half from Brisbane,this beautiful playground of ancient mountain ranges and lush rainforest offers 4254sqm of therapeutic wilderness.
It's flanked by the Great Dividing Range and home to six national parks and the world heritage Gondwana Rainforests – some of the world's most ecologically significant habitats.
You can leave the city behind in less time than it takes some people to commute and immerse yourself in some of Australia's most majestic scenery,exploring walking tracks and cycling trails or simply soaking up the panoramas.
Escape with an eco-stay
Staying at a luxury lodge off the beaten path is not only restorative,but environmentally friendly. The Scenic Rim region is dotted with gorgeous retreats that care for their surroundings just as much as their guests. Many occupy generous stretches of wilderness where protected native animals roam,and others participate in conservation programmes to foster the region's rich biodiversity.
Eco-stays in the Scenic Rim place you at the heart of some of Australia's most ecologically diverse landscapes;the Lamington National Park,Tamborine Mountain,Mount Barney National Park and more.
It's a special treat to immerse yourself in ancient escarpments,waterfalls and rainforest,without skimping on modern luxuries like beautiful bedlinen,gourmet meals and pampering spas.
Delight your senses with Outback produce
From finger limes and olives,to crayfish,honey,artisan cheeses,vegetables of all shades and of course wines,too,the Scenic Rim is a food bowl of all things delicious,and a heady treat for your senses.
Taste fresh produce from roadside stalls as you explore scenic routes,visit farm gates and cellar doors offering bounty grown in the fertile volcanic soil,or browse the multiple farmers'markets across the region.
The annual Scenic Rim Eat Local Week in June is a showcase of the region's food and wine,offering culinary adventures in multiple locations. From bush tucker foraging to farm gate trails,winery tours,picnics,workshops and dinners,it's a never-ending smorgasbord of local delights.
Feel as free as a bird
Take time to birdwatch on the Scenic Rim Trail,and you'll quickly understand why so many people love the pursuit.
Watching birds soar over stunning landscapes,quietly observing them close-up,or thrilling at an encounter with a rare species – these precious experiences come courtesy of the region's extraordinary biodiversity.
The landscape is home to at least 60 of Australia's 70 families of native birds,and you'll encounter a cast of fascinating characters;from some of the country's largest birds,such as the wedge tailed eagle,black neck stork and magpie goose,to flamboyant favourites like lyrebird and bower bird,and rare treasures including the endangered Coxen's figparrot,plumed frogmouth and glossy black cockatoo.
Explore a luxury walk taking in mountains,plains,woodlands and rainforests,millions of years in the making.