Picturesque stops and culinary pleasures
Hey there, if you’re making the journey from the airport to the Gold Coast and want to transform it into a true gastronomic experience, you’re in for something special. This isn’t merely a drive—it’s a two-day culinary journey, filled with exceptional cuisine and breathtaking views. Get ready, because we’re opting for the scenic path with a few tasty breaks along the way.
Kicking things off, you can’t pass through Brisbane without immersing yourself in its vibrant food culture. Begin your adventure with a coffee that’ll blow you away at one of the city’s specialty coffee shops—imagine creamy flat whites and pastries so delectable they ought to be outlawed. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, indulge in a breakfast loaded with fresh, local ingredients. Brisbane’s brunch scene is as robust as a strong wave at Burleigh.
As you head south, make a special stop at Tamborine Mountain, where the air is crisp, the vistas are extraordinary, and the cuisine focuses on local tastes. A visit to a winery or distillery here is essential—savor a refreshing white wine or a locally distilled gin while enjoying the picturesque rolling hills. If you’re hungry, the mountain boasts everything from charming cafes to upscale dining featuring paddock-to-plate delights.
Back on the road, watch for roadside farm stalls. Nothing beats fresh strawberries picked that day or a bag of macadamia nuts for your journey. And if you require a proper lunch break, you’ll find a plethora of spots offering fresh seafood—imagine Moreton Bay bugs smothered in butter or fish so fresh it nearly leaps onto your plate.
Once you arrive at the Gold Coast, you’ll have savored some of the finest dishes in the area. But don’t settle in just yet—there are still many hidden treasures to discover before you reach your ultimate destination.
Secret treasures along the way
If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates a good diversion, you’re in for a treat—this route is filled with hidden treasures that will tempt you to slow down and enjoy the ride. Skip the highway, take the backroads, and you’ll uncover some fantastic spots along the way.
First, check out the Scenic Rim, a region characterized by rolling hills, verdant pastures, and some seriously good eats. There are boutique cheese artisans creating creamy bries and sharp cheddars that will have you reassessing everything you thought you knew about cheese. Pair that with a freshly baked sourdough loaf from a nearby bakery, and you’ve got a road-trip snack that’s top-notch.
Further along the path, there’s an under-the-radar place where you can pick up a pie that’s definitely worth sharing. We’re talking flaky crust, rich fillings, and that ideal crunch-to-chew ratio. Whether you prefer a classic beef and gravy or something a tad more daring—like slow-cooked lamb with rosemary—this is the kind of stop that makes the trip just as enjoyable as the endpoint.
If you crave your meals with an element of adventure, a quick side trip to Currumbin Valley is essential. This area is filled with towering trees, meandering creeks, and hidden cafes that offer organic, locally sourced dishes that are as fresh as they appear. Grab a smoothie loaded with tropical fruits or a filling breakfast bowl before taking a short rainforest hike.
Just before you arrive at the Gold Coast, there’s one final detour that’s worth the extra minutes—Tallebudgera Creek. It’s a local hotspot for good reason. Pristine water, golden sands, and a few hidden food trucks dishing out fresh fish tacos and refreshing coconuts. Park the car, take a swim, and bask in that quintessential Queensland sunshine.
By the time you pull into Burleigh, you’ll have done more than just drive—you’ll have indulged, adventured, and explored some of the best-kept secrets along the route. And let’s be honest, isn’t that what road trips are all about?