Plan your visit to lofty Mount Tamborine

Mount Tamborine is located in Queensland, Australia, within the Gold Coast Hinterland. To reach Mount Tamborine, you can drive from the Gold Coast or Brisbane, which takes approximately 1-1.5 hours from either city. There are also public transport options available, including buses and tours, that provide access to the area.

You can visit Mount Tamborine at any time of year; each season presents a different experience. Spring is particularly popular with the mountain in full bloom; it's a great time to wander through the Mount Tamborine Botanic Gardens. In September, the Springtime on the Mountain Festival sees private gardens open to the public. And the Scarecrow Festival, also held in September, boasts 200 plus scarecrows over a 21km trail. Both events are an excellent opportunity to see the creativity of village life at Mount Tamborine in action.

Mount Tamborine derived its name from the species of finger lime trees that are native to the area. The Aboriginal Yugambeh people, who are the traditional custodians of the land, called the tree "Jambreen," and early European settlers adapted the name to "Tamborine."

The mountain was officially named "Tamborine Mountain" in the late 1800s, and over time, the name evolved to become simply "Mount Tamborine." Today, the mountain is widely known by this name, and it has become a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, vibrant arts community, and diverse range of attractions and activities.

Mount Tamborine generally experiences mild temperatures. Winters (June to August) can see cooler temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 17 to 22 degrees Celsius. Nighttime temperatures may drop further, so bringing layers for cooler evenings is advisable. Summers (December to February) are warmer, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius.

While Mount Tamborine doesn't have natural swimming spots like beaches or lakes suitable for swimming, some accommodation providers in the area offer swimming facilities such as pools. The nearby Cedar Creek Falls, although not directly on Mount Tamborine, is a popular natural waterfall where visitors can swim. It's essential to check the current conditions and safety guidelines before swimming in any natural water bodies.

Spending a day in Mount Tamborine offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed escape. A suggested itinerary might include:

‍Morning: Start your day by exploring the scenic Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens or taking a stroll along the Gallery Walk, a charming strip of shops and cafes.

Midday: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local cafes or restaurants. Many establishments offer delicious local produce and stunning views.

‍Afternoon: Visit one of the local wineries or boutique distilleries for a tasting session. Tamborine Mountain is known for its wine and spirits, and there are several establishments to choose from.

‍Late Afternoon: Explore the walking trails in the Tamborine National Park, such as the Curtis Falls track or the Witches Falls circuit, to experience the area's natural beauty.

Evening: End your day with a visit to the Glow Worm Caves for a magical and unique experience. Alternatively, catch the sunset from one of the scenic lookouts on the mountain.

Remember to adapt the itinerary based on personal preferences and the time of year you visit Mount Tamborine.