On the Gold Coast, our seasons may not be as frequently changing as they are further south (something we’re super grateful for, come winter time) but we can still enjoy a stroll amongst the autumn leaves, right?
Our perennially green city and lush native rainforests don’t see a whole lot of change come the cooler months, but for Gold Coasters wishing to stroll amongst the autumn leaves, there are a bunch of destinations just a short road trip away. Read on for five of the best places to find autumn leaves around the Gold Coast.
Tweed Valley
Just a short drive over the southern border, the lush green landscape of the Tweed Valley develops a distinctly gilded aura during the autumn months. You’ll fall in love with the vibrant colours, rolling vistas, tree-lined roads and clean, crisp air from the multiple high vantage points that the undulating landscape allows. Hop out of the car and relish the crunch of leaves underfoot on a stroll through the foliage.
Toowoomba
Toowoomba is the best place to visit when the autumn leaves start to drop. Known aptly as the garden city, Toowoomba’s tree-lined streets provide a rainbow of autumn tones for you to fall for.
If you’re after a spot to get the perfect snap, Toowoomba also features three main areas that will hand you the blushing autumn vista you crave: Picnic Point, where you can gaze right over the Lockyer Valley, Redwood Park, which is exactly what it sounds like, and Queens Park, which is packed with deciduous trees. Be sure to pack a picnic basket for this one.
Stanthorpe
Nestled in the heart of the Granite Belt, Stanthorpe is all about the seasons, known for its high-quality seasonal produce and numerous wineries, with an abundance of apple trees that turn gloriously golden come autumn.
Get out under the endless skies and hike through Girraween National Park to enjoy the rosy glow of autumn trees, and you’ll definitely want to hit up Rotary Park for a crunchy frolic in the leaves with the fam. Snap a bunch of FOMO-making Insta shots before heading back for a local vino in front of the fire.
Tannymorel
If you’ve never heard of Tannymorel, you’re not alone. But it’s definitely one for autumn-hunters to throw on the must-do list. A short drive from the rolling green hills and epic waterfalls of Killarney, Tannymorel’s main claim to fame is the profusion of trees that crown the main street of this popular autumn town in fiery red and gold. Definitely one for a scenic drive-by.
Mount Tamborine Botanical Gardens
25 Forsythia Dr, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272
Editor's Note: Tamborine Botantical Gardens are closed due to storm damage until further notice
It’s not called the Scenic Rim for nothing. Mount Tamborine is chock full of reliable deciduous autumn fallers, and the Mount Tamborine Botanical Gardens in particular feature a spectacular array of Japanese maple trees that light up in magical autumn hues come the cooler months. In Japan, the maple season is just as popular as the cherry blossom season, and when you see these mighty beauties with their crimson crowns, you’ll understand why. Trust us—you’ll never want to leave. Tamborine Mountain in general also has some stunning autumn trees you'll see as you drive around.
Looking for more outdoor activities to get your blood pumping? Check out:
Main image credit: Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens
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