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Although it's just an hour away from Brisbane, Tamborine Mountain feels like a different universe altogether, thanks to its picturesque surroundings and staggering natural beauty. Home to some of Australia's finest rainforests and iconic national parks, the mountain is also associated with the country's wine industry. From taking a walk across a rainforest canopy to heading to the skies, here's how to explore the majesty of the Tamborine Mountain and its main attributes.

Those who are heading to Tamborine Mountain in the wee hours of the morning can take in the views of the mountain from a vaulted vantage point with Hot Air Balloon Scenic Rim. Watching the sunrise over the mountain from the clouds can be the perfect start to a day trip to Tamborine Mountain as most of these hot-air balloon tours also include a champagne breakfast at a homestead in the mountain's vineyards.

Often compared to walking on top of the world, the joy and exhilaration of tackling the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is difficult to describe in words but is a must-have experience for all nature lovers. This path, which crisscrosses towering tree tops, gradually leads to the canopy at 30m above the valley past scenic rock pools and other natural wonders. It takes roughly an hour to complete the walk as it also includes a stopover at the Rainforest Eco Gallery, which delves into the rich history of the mountain's aboriginal ancestry.

The Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves are one of the most fascinating geological highlights in this part of the country and those who are curious about glow worms will hardly find another location where entire colonies are visible, even during the light of day. The magical sight of witnessing thousands of glow worms illuminating the inside of a dark cave is one of the best reasons to head up Tamborine Mountain in the first place as it is otherworldly in every sense.

Those who check the Tamborine Mountain Scenic Rim Eat Local Week website's event calendar will find some of the best food and drink festivals in the area during their period of travel. Avid picnickers, however, can always grab a Picnic Real Food Bar picnic box and head up the mountain to enjoy panoramic views whenever the mood strikes.

Travellers based at Avani Broadbeach Residences and other rests near Tamborine Mountain will find that touring the Tamborine Mountain Coffee Plantation is one of the top things to do in Broadbeach and its immediate vicinity. After exploring the estate with a whopping 600 coffee trees, visitors can pop by the Splice of Life Café Deli or the Curtis Falls Café to dig into coffee cakes and coffee beverages made using the homegrown beans from the Tamborine Mountain Coffee Plantation.

Shopaholics, on the other hand, must venture over to the Gallery Walk, located on Tamborine Mountain's Long Road to enjoy a shopping spree at local souvenir and gift shops. Vintage Crafts, Bygone Days and the Chocolates on Gallery Walk are three pit stops that all shoppers must make before grabbing a beer at the Fortitude Brewing Co.

Occupying an impressive 11ha, the Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens is another must-visit point of interest. The venue's tropical rainforest walk and exquisite Japanese garden are not the only highlights as there's also a lakeside area perfect for family picnics.

With a 20-year history, the Tamborine Mountain Distillery is one of the main attractions for those who love their gin and schnapps. This local distillery has been producing liquors from native produce and flowers that grow on Tamborine Mountain to create signature beverages such as "eucalyptus gum leaf vodka" and "lilly pilly gin".

Situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, Broadbeach in Australia is a popular holiday spot for many. But it's not just the sea and the sand that draw tourists in; there are a plethora of fantastic attractions that keep holidaymakers returning time and time again. The combination of its stunning beauty and the myriad of activities available makes this Gold Coast locale a top choice for holidaymakers from across the globe.

Renowned globally for its immaculate beaches, Broadbeach is a haven for those who relish beachside leisure. Lying on the pristine white sands whilst observing the grand blue waves is truly a delightful way to unwind. The hum of market stalls and melodies from local musicians give the beachfront a vibrant energy. However, there are also quieter spots for those seeking a bit of solitude.

It's worth noting that many visitors often mistake Broadbeach for Kurrawa Beach. It's essential for tourists to double-check local advice; this is because when residents mention Broadbeach, they're often referring to Kurrawa. This local mix-up has been around for years. Kurrawa Beach offers a variety of activities, surfing being a prime example. The Kurrawa Surf Club is conveniently situated opposite the Oasis Shopping Centre.

A myriad of Broadbeach hotels cater to both discerning travellers and those on a budget. From quintessential B&Bs offering that homely touch to the likes of Avani Broadbeach Residences, there's something for everyone. Many of these places boast enviable views of the coastline, allowing guests to wake up to the soothing sounds of the waves. Local guesthouses, often run by friendly locals, give visitors a taste of authentic Australian hospitality. Moreover, for those keen on a self-catering option, there are plenty of holiday flats and cottages available.

In Broadbeach, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. From classic street food to more gourmet offerings, this Gold Coast suburb has got the lot. Give the renowned Gold Coast dishes a try; you'll find them in many of the local eateries. Whether it's Moroccan or Turkish treats, hearty Bavarian or German dishes, or the zingy flavours of Southeast Asian cuisine, there's a smorgasbord of options to tuck into.

Broadbeach is well-known for its lively nightlife. If you fancy a good night out, Broadbeach is the place to be. The area boasts a range of nightclubs, pubs, and bars, ensuring there's something for everyone. The crowd here tends to be a bit more upmarket, attracting both the younger lot and the older generation.

The Gold Coast is famed for its top-notch shopping offerings. The Broadbeach Markets are a hit with both locals and tourists alike. Pacific Fair, Oasis Shopping Mall, and Broadbeach Mall are among the go-to shopping spots in Broadbeach. Whether you're after big-name brands or local finds, these places have got you covered.

The Korean War memorial can be found in the northern part of Cascade Gardens in Broadbeach. Set in a picturesque spot, the Queensland Korean War memorial was brought to life with contributions from the Republic of Korea and the Korean communities living in Australia. It stands as a tribute to the traditional war fought between United Nations-backed South Korea and North Korea, supported by China. For those with a keen interest in history and military studies, this site is a must-visit.

Cascade Garden is a top pick for family picnics and gatherings on the Gold Coast. Tucked away beside the river and a stone's throw from the bustling Gold Coast highway, it offers a peaceful escape. With a vast playground, it's a dream for kids, keeping them entertained for hours on end. After a day spent at the nearby theme parks, beaches, and other lively Gold Coast attractions, the tranquil rainforest walk in Cascade Gardens provides the perfect, serene wind-down.

Tipped to be one of the Gold Coast's most captivating tourist attractions, Lamington National Park is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary for nature lovers. Named after a former Queensland Governor, this vast expanse located close to Brisbane is one of the main reasons to tour the Gold Coast Hinterland. Whether you are stopping by for a day tour or spending several days experiencing the Gondwana Rainforest that's part of the parkland, here are some tips on how to make your experience a memorable one.

Sarah Kamenarov, Waterfall Lamington National Park, CC BY-SA 4.0

Those who wish to explore Lamington National Park when it is at its finest in terms of weather conditions should time their visit. Although it is possible to enjoy a day out at Lamington National Park during most months of the year, it is best to avoid the rainy and snowy periods in the calendar. August is considered by many to be the perfect time to spend a day in Lamington National Park as the month enjoys the least amount of rain or chance of snowfall. The months of July and September are other alternatives to consider when planning a trip to this area as the dry season offers one the chance to truly immerse oneself in the landscape of the park.

As an expansive national park, it is quite impossible to discover the best highlights of Lamington during a single visit. This is why staying at Avani Broadbeach Residences or any other hotels in Gold Coast, Australia, is necessary. A rest close to the national park not only means that you can spend more than one day exploring its leafy, verdant confines but that you will not be wasting time travelling back and forth from the park, spending hours on the road instead of minutes.

Australia is home to a great many national parks and nature reserves but what sets the Lamington National Park apart is that its geological lineage is over 225 million years old. This means that the flora and fauna found in the park are descendants of an ancient ecosystem. Having earned itself a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list as one of the finest Gondwana Rainforests Down Under, it's not just the centuries-old trees that will impress visitors. As an area that is remained largely unchanged since the time of the dinosaurs, the thick mountain forests, the gushing waterfalls and the hiking trails all offer a unique look at the past.

Hiking and trekking in the many trails that crisscross Lamington National Park is a must for first-time visitors. There are hiking trails that range from Class 1 to Class 5 in terms of difficulty while the total area covered by the walking trails is well over 160km. Those who are visiting the park for a brief stopover can take on the paved Centenary Track, which takes a mere half an hour to walk and connects the Green Mountains car park with the Morans Falls and Python Rock tracks. Photography enthusiasts will find O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk the perfect trail for amazing nature shots. The 4.6km track also offers stunning views of Morans Falls. Experienced hikers can take on the 10.9km Box Forest Circuit, while the Border Track, which is 21.4km just one way is another exciting trail that cuts across the Green Mountains and Binna Burra.

Don't forget to take note of the ancient hoop pines and other captivating plant life occupying the park. The hike up to the Araucaria Lookout also affords panoramic views of plants while birding fans will also spot a few winged beauties including whip birds and Albert's Lyrebirds during their time in the park.