Brisbane, we’re bringing you the ultimate guide for exploring inner-city paradises, English country gardens, patches dedicated completely to succulents and a heap more lush spaces. Expect everything from wild treks to romantic wanders because we have spared no hay fever-inducing gem (and we promise the sneezing will be worth it).
In case you didn't know, Brisbane is blessed with an abundance of fields and gardens to stroll through. So, on your next weekend or afternoon to spare, opt for soaking in that Brisbane springtime sunshine while frolicking through some spectacular gardens. Here are the best flower walks to do in and around Brisbane.
Kalbar Sunflowers
Scenic Rim
Sunflowers in bloom, as far as the eye can see—isn't it the ultimate mood booster? Grab your camera for a full day of exploring Kalbar Sunflowers, whose 15 acres turn into a sea of gold around January and February. No need to wait until then though—the flowers start budding from the end of October, and if you want to pay them a visit, you can book tickets for a farm visit from 23 October. As well as flowers (which you can pick for yourself for $2 per stem), there'll be food and coffee vans dishing up snacks on the weekends, and you can even take your dog. Find out more and grab tickets here.
Sirromet Winery
Mount cotton
You know Sirromet Winery for their vino and cellar door, but did you know they also now have rows and rows of blooming lavendar? Bonus, you can even book a picnic by the flowers on Lavendar Hill during the season (typically from May to October), complete with locally sourced meats, cheese, sweets, wine and everything you need for a vibing afternoon. So if you’ve been yearning for a trip to southern France, hold off on those pricey flights and take your experience right to the doorstep of Brisbane.
Jacaranda Trails
Various Locations
Ah, October. It can mean so many different things to us all. For some, it’s simply enjoying being right in the middle of a glorious spring. For others, it’s the looming feeling of exam season quickly approaching. No matter what it is, there’s no denying that October provides us with some delightful relief that is the iconic jacaranda trails. You'll find jacaranda trees all over Brisbane, but the best spots to get amongst this purple rain are UQ in St Lucia, Dockside Walk at Kangaroo Point, New Farm Park, Jacaranda Park in Yeronga, and a lesser known one, George Street in Goodna. You can find all our favourite spots here.
Queens Park And Botanic Gardens
Toowoomba
If you haven’t already ventured to Toowoomba for the floral happenings they have going on, here’s your little reminder to schedule that in. The Carnival of Flowers during September isn't the only time to visit—this central city park is a veritable wonderland of blooms every spring and summer, and there's plenty of other hotspots around town to visit as well. Head along to check out the ornamental gardens, roses in every colour of the rainbow and native flowers.
Girraween National Park
Ballandean
Wildflowers and epic granite scenery—that's pretty much all the reason you need to visit Girraween National Park. The park has a vast collection of walking tracks, along with massive granite outcrops, clear streams and tumbling cascades, all to be found within hectares of lush forests. But the main attraction of Girraween is their spectacular wildflower displays, which only bloom in spring (hint, hint).
Mount Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens
Mount Coot-Tha
Think tranquil gardens, rainforest trees and ponds that sparkle in the sunshine. In other words, it’s really just downright perfection at the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. This living green museum is home to more than 20,000 plants and has an array of themed gardens to choose from. Take some time out to relax in the Japanese Garden or explore the Bonsai House. Whichever one you find yourself in, the geodesic tropical dome filled with the most exotic and tropical flowers and plants is a must-see.
Nerima Gardens
Ipswich
Tucked away in Ipswich’s gracious Queens Park is Nerima Gardens—picture-perfect Japanese gardens which feature a series of winding paths through fir trees and Australian native plants. Wind down in this blissful retreat with their numerous attractions, including a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony held in the model traditional Japanese tea house with a small verandah overlooking the stream. You’ll feel like you’ve just been transported to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto.
Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens
Mount Tamborine
Known as the hidden treasure atop Mount Tamborine, Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens boasts hectares of native and exotic flora, all of which can be viewed while strolling along walkways that loop around the gardens’ sparkling lake. Cross the stone bridge and enter Wisteria Way and into the Japanese Gardens, or take a relaxing walk through the rose garden—everything here makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the English countryside.
Prefer your walks without the need for bulk anti-hay fever pills? Find our favourite hikes around town here.
Image credit: Priscilla Du Preez