Is it about time you got out of the city and treated yourselves to a weekend away? Luckily, there are plenty of remarkable spots close to Brisbane awaiting couples. To inspire your next romantic getaway, we’ve gathered eight truly divine locations…
Thinking of escaping for a romantic getaway? Check out our Short Breaks stories here…
Moreton Island
It’s hard to believe that this tropical oasis is just off the coast of Queensland’s capital. A scenic 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane’s north takes you to Moreton Island and its treasured Tangalooma Island Resort.
It’s all about enjoying life’s simple pleasures here – feel like kids again when you surf enormous sand dunes, discover an underwater wonderland and be surrounded by tiny fish when you snorkel the island’s famous shipwrecks, feed sweet-faced dolphins or explore the spectacular landscapes on the back of an ATV quad bike for summer holiday vibes any time of year. However, you choose to spend your time here, finish the day by sipping something refreshing while watching the sunset over the azure horizon – not too shabby.
Mount Glorious
This sensational spot certainly lives up to its name. Just under an hour’s drive northwest of Brisbane, Mount Glorious ticks all the right boxes for a romantic mountain escape – think unbelievably beautiful views, a relaxed atmosphere, pristine rainforest, crisp mountain air, quaint cafes and cottage-style accommodation.
The beauty of a short break in this excellent spot is that it’s still relatively unknown to Brisbanites, despite being right on the city’s doorstep. Leave behind the crowds, check into somewhere charming, spot rare birdlife (Mount Glorious is known for its feathered residents) on an incredible bush-walk, sample generous country fare at one of the local eateries and just relax.
Find your Queensland romantic accommodation here with our handpicked directory.
Lamington National Park
Visting Lamington National Park in the state’s south is a real treat (like the name might suggest) for adventure-seekers, nature-lovers and romantics alike. An awe-inspiring place away from the noise and craziness of everyday life (90 minutes south of Brisbane), it’s where you’ll find lush rainforest, emerald mountains, majestic waterfalls and fantastic wildlife.
Naturally, bushwalking and hiking is a bit of a must-do in Lamington National Park – be sure to take in the jaw-droppingly epic views from Morans Falls (pictured above) before you return to reality. Looking for a little luxury? There are also cosy cabins nearby to hole up in, plus a range of acclaimed wineries and restaurants to check out. A weekend spent marvelling at Mother Nature, cellar door-hopping and sipping red wine by a crackling fire? Sounds like heaven to us!
Noosa
A long-time holiday favourite for generations of Queenslanders, Noosa (just under two hours’ drive north of Brisbane) doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re after an action-packed or laid-back cosmopolitan escape, this beach-chic locale has something for you.
Seeking postcard-perfect scenery? Take a dip in the Fairy Pool rockpools, admire screensaver-ready views along the Noosa National Park walking track, hit the surf at beloved Main Beach or cruise along the Noosa River on a relaxing ferry ride. Want to lap up the best that the Sunshine Coast’s gourmet scene has to offer? Mix boutique-hopping with a lazy lunch or dinner when you wander along Hastings Street, or travel to nearby Noosaville and toast the occasion at one of the renowned waterfront restaurants.
Related Article: The Ultimate Guide To A Sunshine Coast Romantic Getaway.
Mooloolaba
As fun to visit as it is to say, Mooloolaba (90 minutes north of Brisbane) offers all the essentials for a fabulous beach getaway. Golden-sand beaches with brilliant surf, stylish accommodation, top fishing spots and wonderful restaurants, cafes and bars – it’s all here for you to enjoy!
Couples, you can take it as easy as you like in Mooloolaba. Unwind by spending your days lapping up the sunshine poolside, floating in the beach’s shimmering waters or sipping cocktails somewhere truly lovely. Or, get the heart racing by diving the coral-carpeted HMAS Brisbane with a local dive group. There’s even a great aquarium here if you prefer to keep dry, plus marvellous whale-watching tours (if you time your visit right). Our advice? Get out and experience it all for yourselves.
Montville
This enchanting mountaintop locale (90 minutes north of Brisbane) will always have our hearts. Home to fairytale-like European-inspired architecture, a calming cool climate and pinch-me-now valley views, Montville makes for unforgettable short breaks.
Along the main street, you’ll come across delightfully quirky boutiques, art galleries and a collection of exquisite dining spots. If you’re looking to venture out a little, pop into the local wineries or take a picnic to the magnificent Baroon Pocket Dam and kayak its idyllic lake. Don’t miss exploring Montville’s Kondalilla National Park before you leave. With an impressive 90-metre waterfall, rock pools, stunning eucalypt forest and dense rainforest, it’ll be a highlight of your weekend away.
Springbrook
It seems Queensland’s southeast is spoiled when it comes to astonishing mountain escapes. 90 minutes south of Brisbane in the Gold Coast Hinterland, Springbrook boasts a seemingly endless list of gorgeous sights.
Easily one of the main attractions here, Springbrook National Park has oh-so-much to see. The humbling 109-metre Purling Brook Falls and the whimsical Twin Falls are mandatory viewing, as is the magical Natural Bridge and the straight-from-Jurassic-Park outlook from Canyon Lookout. Tucked away amongst it all, dreamy accommodation, personality-packed boutiques and splendid cafes promise a memorable weekend away.
Buderim
With plenty of community spirit and a chilled atmosphere, Buderim (just over an hours’ drive north of Brisbane) is a real must-visit. Just a 15-minute drive from Mooloolaba (care to mix a mountain escape with a beach getaway?) this historical village is blessed with jade-green rainforest, terrific ocean views and a growing culinary scene.
For those ‘just discovered paradise’ vibes, set your sights for the Buderim Forest Waterfall Walk. As you make your way to the sigh-inducing waterfall and its peaceful rock pools, you’ll feel dwarfed by soaring trees and ferns – amazing. In the small township, trendy cafes and restaurants celebrate the region’s seasonal produce, while an array of outstanding green spaces provide the perfect setting for a romantic picnic. Life’s good.
Inspired? Find plenty of romantic Queensland accommodation here…
Image credits: Tourism and Events Queensland, Jason Charles Hill, Joint TA/TEQ, Matthew Taylor Thomas and Ming Nomchong
