Trade waves for rolling hills and sand for ancient forests – because the Bunya Mountains is calling.
Utilise your annual leave with this four-day Bunya Mountains itinerary that will see you immersed within the refreshing rainforest, getting friendly with the local wildlife and sampling tasty Bunya delicacies.
As you cruise your way up the mountain, you’ll find plenty of Bunya secrets within the pines. From elegant accommodation to thrill-seeking mountain biking trails to unique local restaurants, pack the car and hit the road – it’s time for a long weekend to remember!
Day 1
Morning
With a boot full of equipment, don’t leave home without your bike, golf clubs and esky. Hop onto the M1 Bruce Highway and take the Beerwah Road, State Route 6, towards the D’Aguilar Highway. Without detours, your journey to the Bunya Mountains is a mere two hours and 47 minutes.
Grocery supplies are limited on the mountain, so we’d recommend you bring your supplies with you or enjoy the hospitality found on the mountain, with Poppies on the Hill and the Bunya Mountains Tavern providing delicious meals.
If you forgot to grab alcohol, not to worry – we have the perfect detour. Take a turn off the D’Aguilar Highway and head to the Woongooroo Estate Winery. Enhance your weekend by purchasing a few bottles, packed with local flavours to enjoy later.
Evening
Grand to cozy, there are over 100 cabins for you to choose from on the mountain. Ranging from one-bedroom cabins to accommodation that sleeps 22 guests – no matter your family size, you’ll find something to suit.
Pair comfort with pristine views at lodges such as Cloudlands, The Bunya Spires Holiday Home and the Endless Views Bunya Mountains Accommodation. After checking in, grab the esky snacks and head over to Fishers Lookout, the Bunya Mountains Outlook at Russell Park or the Westcliff Lookout for a golden sunset.
Day 2
Morning
Wake up your senses with a morning adventure. Pitstop by The Bunya Mountains Tavern General Store for some on-the-go bites, as you make your way to the Bunya Mountains – Mountain Bike Trails. The family will be entertained all morning with four bike trails winding through the towering Bunya Pines. There are three looping tracks and one shared two-way track.
If you’ve only recently shed the training wheels, the Wagma Way is perfect for beginners. Alternatively, if you’re after something more exhilarating, the Serpent Spin is an easy to intermediate trail, peppered with entertaining obstacles.
Evening
Rest the legs after a day of two-wheeled exploration back at your accommodation. Crack out the Woongooroo wine and cheese as the sun sets. Those with fire pits at their accommodation can enjoy self-roasted bunya nuts, a local treat. Breathe in the crackling embers, the buzz of nature and indulge below a canopy of twinkling stars.
Day 3
Morning
Wind your way down the opposite side of the mountain in the morning with a 20-minute adventure west to Bell. Providing a delicious, seasonally changing menu, stop for lunch at Pips ‘N’ Cherries or find your iconic pub meals at the Bellview Hotel. After a filling lunch, tee off for nine holes at the Bell Golf Course.
Evening
Pack the clubs away and head back up the mountain for a night of mouth-watering food. Combining classic pub meals and bunya nut inspired delicacies, the Bunya Mountains Tavern is a holiday ‘must do’. After a hearty meal, retire to the Shackleton’s Whisky Bar within the tavern. With over 100 different whiskies on the shelves, reflect on your holiday adventures from Australia’s highest whisky bar.
Day 4
Morning
Spend your last morning meandering through the beautiful sway of the Bunya pines. Those up for an easy stroll, head to the 500m Bunya Track. Alternatively, seek the magical 4km Scenic Circuit Tracks that guide you past the Festoon Falls, Pine Gorge Lookout and Tim Shea Falls.
If you’re visiting on the last Sunday of the month, pick up delectable local produce at the Bunya Mountains markets. Selling farmed goods, crafts and homemade wares, stock up before making your journey home.
Afternoon
Fuel up with one last meal at the Bunya Mountains Tavern or Poppies on the Hill before starting the journey home. If you’re in need of a pick me up after the first two hours driving, stop for a pie and coffee at the Peachester Café. Cute and quaint, indulge in a final piece of country charm before making the last leg back to the Sunshine Coast.