Mountain country on Brisbane's doorstep
The Scenic Rim takes its name from the ring of ancient volcanic ranges that curve around the valleys south-west of Brisbane. Within an easy day's reach you can stand beneath rainforest older than the dinosaurs, walk to a clifftop lookout, and finish at a farm gate or cellar door for lunch.
It is one of the few parts of South-East Queensland where you still feel genuinely rural, yet most of it sits within a 60 to 90 minute drive of the city.
What to see and do
- National parks and lookouts — Main Range, Mount Barney and the Moogerah Peaks, with stretches listed as part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.
- Farm gates and produce — the region is known for its paddock-to-plate ethos, with seasonal stalls, dairies and orchards across the Fassifern Valley.
- Country towns — Boonah, Kalbar, Aratula and Beaudesert each make a relaxed base for a wander, a coffee and a look at the heritage streetscapes.
- Cellar doors — boutique vineyards and tasting rooms are tucked through the valleys.
When to visit
The cooler months from autumn to early spring are the most comfortable for walking and farm visits, and align with the region's popular local-produce season. Summers are warm and can be wet, so plan walks for the morning.
See the Scenic Rim with Cooee Tours
Let us handle the driving so you can take in the ranges, farm gates and cellar doors. Our small-group day tours and weekend itineraries depart from Brisbane.