See a different side of the Gold Coast and immerse yourself in the lush rainforest on Mount Tamborine. Discover interesting variations of flora and fauna, including tropical birds and goannas, and breathe in the fresh air. 

Tamborine is an Anglicised version of the Aboriginal word Jambreen, which refers to the area’s wild finger lime trees. Mount Tamborine has three townships: Eagle Heights, Mount Tamborine and North Tamborine on the peak. 

Follow the Gallery Walk along Long Road in Eagle Heights. This street is teeming with art galleries, cafés and craft shops selling anything from crystals to fudge and ice cream. 

A spectacular way to explore the mountain’s lush slopes is the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk through the rainforest canopy. Gradually descend into the densely vegetated rainforest floor and follow the trail past rock pools and a butterfly lookout. Rest areas provide shelter along the way.

Take a tour of the Glow Worm Caves, where thousands of glow worms illuminate the man-made underground caves like stars in the night sky. Visit Jasmin Organics, Australia’s largest organic skincare farm and manufacturing facility, to visit its beautiful gardens, fruit orchards and beauty shop. 

Explore 27 acres (11 hectares) of lush landscaping at the Botanic Gardens. Walk under pergolas covered in wisteria, admire the waterlilies in the lake and cross the stone bridge. Themed sections include a Japanese garden, rose garden and a bromeliad garden.

If you are feeling adventurous, take a trip to Thunderbird Park. Play laser skirmish in a jungle setting or take the Tree Top Challenge, a high ropes course. 

The mountain’s stunning hinterland is an hour’s drive from both central Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Download the GoTambo phone app for directions and information on over 400 places to eat, drink, see and do.