If you’re an outdoor adventure lover, then you’ll know spring is a wonderful time in and around the Gold Coast. The surrounding hiking trails start blooming with colour, and there’s even a month-long flower festival in Toowoomba, perfect for a weekend getaway. Here are some of the best places to see wildflowers near Gold Coast this spring.
1. Girraween National Park
The Granite Belt region isn’t just known for its vineyards scattered through the countryside (although winery hopping out here never goes astray). It’s also one of the best spots in South East Queensland for hiking. Hit the trails at Girraween this spring to catch spectacular views from mountaintops as well as seas of wildflowers while you’re walking.
Distance from Gold Coast: 3hr 45 mins
2. Kooroomba Vineyards and Lavender Farm
This lush spot makes for the perfect day outdoors: whether it be walking through the lavender fields and enjoying the mountain views, tasting the local vino, or dining at the gourmet restaurant on-site. Kooroomba is also a popular wedding venue, with a picturesque chapel on the property for lovers to tie the knot.
Distance from Gold Coast: 1hr 45 min
3. Toowoomba Carnival Of Flowers
For a whole month, this Insta-worthy flower festival will take over Queens Park in Toowoomba. In previous years, the celebration has attracted massive crowds, and with good reason – the displays are magnificent and the events are guaranteed to put a spring in your step.
The floral exhibits aren’t the only thing Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is bringing this year, though. You’ll also be able to see an illuminated after-dark light show at the Botanic Gardens, catch a flick at an outdoor cinema, and also watch fireworks set the sky ablaze. Be sure to look out for the Grand Central Floral Parade as well, which is a favourite at the festival.
Distance from Gold Coast: 2hr 15 min
Read all about Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers here.4. Jacarandas blooming, Brisbane
Around October each year, Brisbane starts to get painted purple with jacaranda flowers blooming and falling from the trees. It truly does make walks around the city more vibrant, if you know where to go that is. To find the best jacaranda trails, head to New Farm Park, UQ St Lucia, Jacaranda Park in Yeronga, Kangaroo Point’s Dockside Walk, or George Street in Goodna.
Distance from Gold Coast: 1hr
5. Kalbar Sunflower Farm, Scenic Rim
You know those aesthetic Insta pics you see of people wandering gracefully through vibrant sunflower fields? Well, that could be you in spring when Kalbar Sunflower Farm reopens. The eight-acre sunflower field will be in full bloom, ready for all the camera snaps you can imagine. There isn’t a specified date as to when it opens just yet, but we’ll be sure to keep you updated on that.
Distance from Gold Coast: 1hr 45 min
More on Kalbar Sunflower Farm here.6. Sunshine Coast hinterland
As the weather warms up, the Sunshine Coast’s beaches might be ready to swim in during spring. But the beaches can wait till summer. On a short drive inland, look for wildflowers on the side of the road, or on a hiking trail in the Glass House Mountains.
Distance from Gold Coast: 2.5hrs
7. Gurulmundi
If you prefer your nature trips less crowded, take a wildflower trip to Gurulmundi in the Western Downs region. Even though it’s a bit of a drive from Gold Coast, you’ll get to wander along a trail dedicated to wildflowers. Just don’t forget to bring your camera – you’ll definitely need it!
Distance from Gold Coast: 5hrs
SEE ALSO: 9 Charming Country Towns Perfect For A Weekend Getaway From The Gold Coast