Try this Tamborine Mountain Road Trip and discover an all-new lineup of great eats, stays, and things to do. Tamborine Mountain has had a makeover and this Tamborine Mountain Road Trip will take you on a scenic adventure to find the new good food, fine drinks, and the fabulous views everyone loves. Buckle up and hit the road for a joyride packed with eats, art, and the kind of sights that’ll have you pulling over for selfies faster than you can say, “Look at that view!”
Why Visit Tamborine Mountain?
Tamborine Mountain is a destination that truly has it all. Perched in the lush hinterland of the Scenic Rim, this charming mountaintop retreat offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, gourmet delights, and unique experiences. Tamborine is approximately 70 kilometres south of Brisbane. The drive typically takes around 1 hour via the Pacific Motorway (M1) and the Tamborine-Oxenford Road, depending on traffic conditions.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by stunning vistas, cool mountain air, and an abundance of things to see and do. Whether you’re wandering through tranquil rainforests, sampling boutique wines and craft beers, or browsing the artisan shops on Gallery Walk, Tamborine Mountain delivers a great escape. It’s the ideal spot for a Queensland day trip or a leisurely weekend getaway.
Tamborine Mountain Road Trip
Stop 1: Breakfast at Franquette – Bonjour to the Day!
Your first pit stop is Franquette, a French-inspired café that makes croissants so buttery that they are worth the hour-long drive from Brisbane. Start with an indulgent Danish filled with thick custard and fruit or an eggs Benedict with a French twist, paired with coffee that could rival Parisian brews. By the time you’re done, you’ll be wondering if you accidentally drove to Provence. A perfect start to your Tamborine Mountain road trip.
Stop 2: Rainforest Walk at Joalah National Park – Your Cardio for the Day
Next up, stretch those legs (and justify the pastries) with a rainforest walk at Joalah National Park. The Curtis Falls Walking Track is an easy stroll through lush greenery, complete with the soothing sounds of waterfalls and chirping birds. Plus, it’s the kind of place where even your least flattering hiking selfies will still look artsy. A must-visit for any Queensland day trip.
Stop 3: The Gallery Walk – Shopping, but Make It Quaint
Feeling inspired by nature? Head to the Gallery Walk, where boutique shops and artisan stores await. Pick up some handcrafted jewellery, local art, or gourmet treats. Pro tip: Save the fudge for later—it’s best enjoyed when your pants still fit after lunch. No Tamborine Mountain road trip is complete without a visit to this iconic strip, and everyone should do it at least once.
Tamborine Mountain’s Main St Providore & Espresso is a new addition to Gallery Walk. They also offer a degustation menu Friday and Saturday evenings that celebrates local produce and changes monthly to capture the essence of the season. Chef Brenden Schulz artfully blends French, Japanese, and Australian influences, letting the high-quality ingredients shine through every dish.
Stop 4: Lunch at Picnic Real Food Bar – Wholesome and Delicious
When hunger strikes, pull into Brenda Fawdon’s Picnic Real Food Bar, where you’ll find vibrant salads, gourmet wraps, and the kind of dishes that make you forget your name. The focus here is tightly on local produce and you can stock up from their pantry shelves with take home goodies. Don’t miss the eggs or the tomato jam! Sip on a refreshing smoothie or house-made lemonade while plotting your next move (or a nap). It’s a Queensland day trip culinary highlight.
Stop 5: Loborn – Australia’s Answer to Italian Aperitifs
Just around the corner from Picnic is Tamborine’s own amaro distillery. You know Aperol, right? Well, at Loborn, the local version was reimagined by Tom Drewett and made with pristine Tamborine water, local fruits, and no preservatives. Dare I say I like it better?
Sip on a tasting, or better yet, order a full glass and pretend you’re in a mountain version of a European piazza. Don’t forget to snag a bottle—it’s the ultimate road trip souvenir that says, “I have great taste.” You can even do a workshop and learn how to make the perfect Negroni.
This modern amaro stop at Loborn adds something to brag about and share when you get home to your Tamborine Mountain road trip.
Stop 6: The Floral Atelier by Arched Poppy – Flowers, But Make It Art
Just take a few more steps and you will be at The Floral Atelier by Arched Poppy, where Katherine Chamberlain creates floral masterpieces in her stunning workshop at North Stores. This store is oh-so-pretty, with much more than just the beautiful flowers. Think artwork, candles and all sorts of wonderful things. It needs a good browse.
Whether you’re admiring her work or joining a masterclass, it’s the perfect way to channel your inner florist and maybe, just maybe, impress your Instagram followers. This unique spot cements its place as a Queensland day trip favourite.
Stop 7: Boxer Brewing Co. and Witches Falls Winery – A Sip Trip to Remember
What’s a road trip without a proper drink? Head to Boxer Brewing Co., Tamborine Mountain’s newest brewery located at Witches Falls Winery. Sip on craft brews like the IPA or Lazy Ale in the stylish Kennel Tap Room and Sports Bar. Keep an eye out for the crazy boxer dogs too!
Then, step into Witches Falls Winery for boutique wines that’ll make you feel like a connoisseur even if your wine vocabulary ends at “oaky.” Don’t leave without a bottle of their wild ferment chardonnay (my favourite).
Together, they make your Tamborine Mountain road trip unforgettable.
Stop 8: Dinner at Saint Marte Brasserie – A New Local Gem
Saint Martha Brasserie may have only been open for two weeks when I visited, but it’s already established itself as a favourite for locals. This is not just a “special occasion” venue; its approachable price point makes it a regular go-to for dining out.
Ambiance and Style
The restaurant’s indoor-outdoor layout offers versatility, with a charming separate bar area that channels the feel of a European bistro—ideal for a casual lunch or pre-dinner drinks. Inside, the design is undeniably inviting. A stone fireplace serves as the room’s centrepiece, complemented by leadlight lampshades and banquette seating. A mirror with brass detailing runs the length of the space, adding an air of elegance and amplifying the room’s natural light. Private alcoves also provide a cosy option for group dining.
The Menu
Saint Martha Brasserie boasts a thoughtfully curated, tight menu that focuses on classic crowd-pleasers. With six entrees and six mains, it’s designed for simplicity and excellence.
Standout Dishes
- Steak Tartare: Prepared fresh daily, served with crisps for a delightful crunch.
- Grilled Asparagus: Topped with a poached egg and preserved lemon, it’s a fresh and vibrant choice.
- Confit Duck: Rich and tender, a must-try.
- Gruyère Cheese Soufflé: This decadent dish is worth the wait—30 minutes to perfection.
- The charcuterie board is a standout choice for sharing, offering a selection of high-quality cured meats and accompaniments—ideal for starting a meal with friends.
- For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert options won’t disappoint. Choose from classics like crème brûlée, a molten chocolate pudding, or something a little different like lavender ice cream.
The Verdict
Saint Martha Brasserie successfully captures the warmth and charm of a European bistro while maintaining the ease of a neighbourhood favourite. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual meal or a celebration, this brasserie delivers a memorable dining experience.
Stop 9 – Optional Sleepover at The Tamborine Boutique Hotel – Luxury in the Clouds
If you’re not ready to say goodbye, check into the newly opened The Tamborine Boutique Hotel, a reimagined 1980s Hacienda-style motel that’s equal parts stylish and relaxing. Really, this is a must, not an option!
Unwind in the mineral pool, sip cocktails during Peacock O’clock, and wake up to a complimentary continental breakfast. It’s the kind of place that’ll make you wish your road trip lasted forever.
I stayed here and was entranced watching the panoramic view, which rivals the best on the mountain, change throughout the day. The spotlit gums backed by misty fog are a real nighttime treat.
Welcome and Thank You!
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Why Your Next Queensland Day Trip Should Be to Tamborine Mountain
This isn’t just a road trip; it’s a Queensland day trip that packs good vibes, great bites, and unforgettable moments. Whether you call it a foodie adventure, a nature escape, or an excuse to eat and drink your way through Tamborine Mountain, one thing’s for sure—you’ll want to do it all over again.
Getting There: Driving to Tamborine Mountain from Brisbane or the Gold Coast
Whether you’re starting from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, the drive to Tamborine Mountain is part of the adventure. From Brisbane, head south on the Pacific Motorway, taking Exit 57 towards Tamborine—the lush hinterland scenery begins almost immediately as you wind through verdant valleys and rolling hills.
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