Mount Tamborine

They call the Gold Coast hinterland “the green behind the gold” and the Mount Tamborine area includes no less than seven National Parks, featuring subtropical rainforest. This upland area is only a short drive from the Gold Coast but is a million miles away in terms of lifestyle. Its height above the sea ensures that the summers are refreshingly cool, while there may even be some light frosts in the winter. The soil is rich and fertile and farming is a way of life – look out for roadside stalls selling the very freshest of local produce. There are some stunning viewpoints, with expansive views of the Gold Coast and the ocean. The many national parks feature waterfalls, wildlife, especially birds, picnic facilities and many bushwalks. Mount Tamborine is an artist's haven with local art and craft showcased in the area's galleries. There is even a handful of wineries that can be visited.

Find out more about the Gold Coast region.