Scenic Rim · Queensland · Australia
Gateway to the rainforest highlands, one hour from Brisbane
A beloved roadside village on the Cunningham Highway, Aratula sits at the foot of two national parks with World Heritage rainforest on one side and a shimmering lake on the other.
About Aratula
Originally known as Carter's Gate, Aratula grew around a railway station in the early 20th century before officially taking its name in 1913. Today it's a welcoming stop on the Cunningham Highway — loved for its award-winning bakery pies, antique shops, and craft galleries — but the real draw is what surrounds it.
Moogerah Peaks National Park to the north, the World Heritage–listed Main Range National Park to the west, and Lake Moogerah just minutes away make Aratula the ideal base for outdoor exploration deep in the Scenic Rim.
Natural Highlights
Each facet of Aratula's surroundings offers a completely different experience of the Queensland outdoors.
01 — Rainforest
Ancient Gondwana rainforest with sweeping mountain panoramas and pristine subtropical valleys.
02 — Lake Life
Waterskiing, jet skiing, boating and fishing on a glittering reservoir ringed by volcanic peaks.
03 — Peaks
Dramatic volcanic plugs rising from pastoral plains — a magnet for climbers and hikers alike.
Things To Do
Lace up and explore the network of trails through Main Range National Park, with viewpoints overlooking mountains and valleys that stretch to the horizon.
Whether you prefer the thrill of waterskiing or a quiet morning of fishing from the bank, the lake offers recreation for every pace.
No visit is complete without stopping for an award-winning pie. A Cunningham Highway institution beloved by locals and road-trippers alike.
Wander the village's charming antique shops and arts and crafts outlets — perfect for an unhurried browse and a unique find to take home.
The Scenic Rim's signature annual celebration, hosted in Aratula, brings together 60+ local producers for a feast of regional food and drink.
The volcanic plugs of Moogerah Peaks National Park challenge experienced climbers while offering excellent hikes with dramatic views for all levels.
Aratula sits on the Cunningham Highway (A2), approximately 1 hour south-west of Brisbane and 30 minutes from Ipswich. The highway passes directly through the village, making it a natural stopping point on road trips through South East Queensland.
Aratula is a year-round destination. Autumn and winter (April–August) bring clear skies, cool crisp days, and the celebrated Winter Harvest Festival. Spring rewards with wildflowers in the national parks. Summer is lush and green.
Aratula QLD 4309
Cunningham Highway, Scenic Rim
Nearby: Boonah (10 min), Lake Moogerah (15 min), Ipswich (30 min), Brisbane (60 min), Gold Coast (75 min)