Explore the Hidden Gems of Scenic Rim!

One place that we keep going back to when we can is the Scenic Rim, not many know that this area in Queensland has a lot to offer! One of the first places we ever went camping was Mt Barney and once you explore this area it will keep you wanting to come back time and time again.

PLACES TO STAY IN THE SCENIC RIM

1. Mt Barney Lodge and Camping - there are a few different accommodation options at this campground and they also host Hike adventures to sign up and pay an additional amount for. Unpowered Sites only.

They have Toilets/Hot Showers/Firewood/washing up facilities.

2. Bigriggen Campground - This campground is so central to everything and even better its pet Friendly! they have powered and unpowered sites with toilets/hot showers and fire wood along with a well stocked shop. Be aware there is no phone service out here.

3. Flanagans Reserve - We are yet to stay here but have friends that love this little oasis in the Scenic Rim. This Campground is also pet friendly, Amenities and Fires are allowed when there is no ban in place. Unpowered Only

4. Lake Maroon Campground - This beautiful Spot was one of the first places we ever went camping together in our coleman pop up tent! such a beautiful spot with views of the dam which is perfect for Kayaking and paddleboarding. This spot has Toilets/hot Showers, Firepits, Pet friendly, power and unpowered sites available.

5. Lake Moogerah Caravan Park - We have not actually Stayed here but it is on our list to as we visited for the first time over the weekend and it looks epic. Right on the water to enjoy all your water sports, Toilets, Hot Showers, Camp Kitchen and Mobile Phone reception. No Pets allowed and you can bring your own fire pit or hire one when you arrive. They have powered and unpowered site available.

PLACES TO EXPLORE WHILE IN SCENIC RIM

1.Mt Barney National Park - This National Park is one to be explored! With so Many Hiking Trails you will never do them all unless you come back for more. Our Favourite Hike is the Lower Portals, a 7.4km return (3-4 hours) hike that is quite Difficult. it is graded at a 4 but is definitely doable even if you go slow. This hike has a few creek crossings but be sure to check conditions before you attempt this hike as if it has rained the creek crossing can be waist-chest high water that you have to swim across. Check Qld National Park for condition updates.

2. Mountview Alpaca Farm - This beauty of a spot is hidden in the Canungra valley and is the perfect spot for a day trip and a picnic by the stream which is flowing well and truly now. However this is not the only reason you come here, ALPACAS!!! Yep there is an Alpaca farm and you can come and feed them and even take them for a walk for only $49 for Half and hour, so you get your very own Alpaca for 30 minutes which is so cool!

3. Chase Waterfalls - There are so many waterfalls around the Scenic Rim, one of our favourites is Moran Falls. this hike is quite moderate and you have to go off the beaten track to find the sweet spot viewing point but if you do a little research you will find the secret entry.

4. Take a drive out to Moogerah Dam - This is one impressive dam. Very popular for all watersports due to it being so large you definitely want to pack a picnic and stay for the day. The drive out is so scenic make sure you stop off and get some epic photos.

5. Summerland Camel Farm - Not only is this a camel farm where you can book camel rides and farm tours, it's also one place where you can try possibly for the first time Camel Milk, Camel Milk Vodka...... yes that's right Camel Milk Vodka! You can buy whatever your heart desires from their shop or book Sunset viewing drinks and Canapes and just enjoy the serenity!

PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK IN THE SCENIC RIM

1. Scenic Rim Brewery- This is one brewery that we come back to time and time again because it is seriously the best. apart from the cute cottage it is set in the beer is pretty darn good too. The one that i always get when we visit is the Ginger Extra Dry and Kurt's Fav is the Fat Man Ale so make sure you make a stop and have a couple of beers..... oh and forgot to mention they do amazing scones too and Bratwurst Sausages!

2. Kooroomba Lavender Farm - This is one of our Favourite Lavender farms/Restaurants in the Scenic Rim, not only is it picturesque but they serve some of the best Lavender Scones we have had. Apart from the French country style restaurant food you can also book a picnic basket for when you arrive and pick it up, go for a wander and sit amongst the olive tree's and really take in the scenery on your own. Took Kurt on a date here about 4 years ago and it was the best day.

3. OWL Wholefoods Canungra - We have now stopped into this cute little cafe/wholefoods store a few times now and each time they have wowed us with the quality and presentation of food they serve. Our Recent visit we ordered some fresh juices which were amazing but what knocked my socks off was the Nourish Falafel Bowl with homemade Hummus! Legit heaven on earth!

4. Ginger Ninja Sushi Canungra - We love our sushi and you have to be pretty good for us to talk about you. each time we pass through Canungra we make sure we stop and get either one of their amazing sushi bowls or just some rolls to take away on the road trip with us. The Karaage Chicken Bowel and Katsu Curry is top of my list!

We hope we have helped with planning your first trip to the Scenic Rim and if you find any other secret spots be sure to let us know, we love exploring our backyard.

In the meantime...... get out there and explore!

Kurt and Carly x