The MOUNT TAMBORINE district in the Hinterland provides a contrast to the Coastal razzmatazz. Unusual flora like cycads (related to 150million year old plants) may be viewed at Zamia Grove while fauna such as the endangered Albert’s lyrebird, birdwing butterflies, various bowerbirds and the world’s largest skink are also to be found here. See the whole Gold Coast from your elevated vantage point half an hour by car from the coast! Fossick for thundereggs, take a leisurely horse ride or try Adventure Parc at Thunderbird Park. Accommodation options are varied and excellent. Stay in a cabin in the bush with open fireplace or maybe a motel option suits you better. Explore the bush in Tamborine National Park, visit a winery or picnic at The Knoll or Witches Falls. For shoppers there are markets galore and Gallery Walk with its myriad gift ideas.

Further south lie Lamington and Springbrook National Parks. Take a spectacular days drive to explore local vineyards and World Heritage Listed Lamington National Park. Discover the famous Treetop Walk and network of rainforest walking trails at O’Reilly’s, hiking trails, abundant bird life and the panoramic views over lunch at Gran O'Reilly's Store. In 1911 the O’Reilly family from Kerry arrived in the mountains and settled in the Lamington region. Experience the natural side of the Gold Coast in the region which supports more frog, snake, bird and marsupial species than any other area in Australia.This unforgettable scenic day trip will open your eyes to the spectacular natural beauty of Lamington National Park. It’s a birdwatchers mecca and several accommodation options are available at O’Reillys. Explore the historic town of Canungra and sample the delights of O'Reilly's Canungra Valley Vineyards. Beautiful waterfalls such as Purlingbrook and Goolamara are a feature of Springbrook. Visit the Springbrook Homestead Observatory and check out the view from Best of All Lookout.