It’s obvious that Gold Coast is geographically blessed – it’s actually one of the top reasons people come here. The area is perfectly positioned between world heritage listed pristine coastline and rainforest, the Gold Coast has something for everyone.
Photo Credit: http://ywam.org.au/centres/gold-coast/
With over 100,000 hectares of rainforest and 60 kilometres of beach – not to mention the shops, towns, and other amazing drives by areas, the best way to explore its beauty is by car. The first thing you need to secure is a car hire from gold coast airport to any destination in this article.
Here we go!
Broadwater National Park. From Ballina, just follow the Pacific Highway south and turn left to MacDonald St where you can see signs for Evans Head. Once on the Evans Head-Broadwater Rd, the park entrance is located on the left. The marshlands and swamps are home to waders such as herons, ibis, and brolgas. Rare jabiru storks can be seen around Salty Lagoon. Other wildlife you can see here are swamp wallabies, bandicoots, red-necked wallabies, echidnas, bush rats, ringtail possums and blossom bats.
Numinbah Drive. This drive takes you right to the heart of the Gold Coast’s Hinterland, passing the border of northern NSW before heading north via Tomewin Mountain. Experience the Natural Bridge and reward yourself after a short walk to an amazing bridge-like rock formation that was formed over millions of years of water plunging through the ceiling of a basalt cave.
Duck Creed Rd. Located 28km South of Beaudesert — Duck Creek Rd is around 28km from Beaudesert via the Kerry Valley. This is perfect for those who like to get down and dirty. Duck Creek Rd is located south of Beaudesert and is a preserved off-road track heading up the back way to Lamington National Park. It’s a very picturesque track winding up the mountain range until discovering the bitumen road at the top to trail on to O’Reilly’s Tourist Centre and walking trails.
Basket Swamp. One of four national parks that’s easy access to the area that spans the Tenterfield-Stanthorpe New England region on the New South Wales and Queensland border. This national park borders Boonoo State Forest with its quiet bush and picnic camping areas. This is a woodland park without amenities that suits self-sufficient bushwalkers.
Moo Moo café. You can’t miss this cafe as you drive into Mooball on the Tweed Valley Way. It’s dressed in its traditional black and white cow colours; the roadhouse also has an old-fashioned feel to it. After seeing the telegraph poles decorated in black and white, you’ll know you’re entering Mooball. Try a hamburger before looking at the vintage collectables of old cars and bikes on display. Yes, some are for sale.
Koroomba Vineyards and Lavender Farm. Experience unique food and wine while looking at the magnificent lavender fields. Trying out Hervey Bay scallops with Verdelho Marsanne is the perfect finish to a scenic drive outlined by the Scenic Rim Mountains. Head out along Nerang-Broadbeach Rd and pass the State Route 90. You’ll change gears through Canungra, Beaudesert and Boonah before you take Wallace Creek Bunjur Rd which will turn into FM Bell Rd.
Found a driving location you’d want to see the next time you visit the Gold Coast? Jot it down on your travel itinerary. And don’t forget to book a car hire from gold coast airport to visit your desired locations.
If you’re looking for the top travel destinations inside the Gold Coast, check out Australia’s official site. Have fun!
Katy
Friday 24th of March 2017
I've always wanted to travel to Australia! This area looks gorgeous. I love that there are so many different things nearby like a rainforest and a big city!