Nestled in the Gold Coast’s scenic hinterland, Mount Tamborine is a picturesque haven that seamlessly blends natural beauty with culinary delights and offers the perfect place to unwind, explore, and indulge.
Known for its delectable local produce, the area boasts a bounty of artisanal cheeses, craft beers, fine wines, and indulgent confectionaries. Take your pick from an array of wineries and charming restaurants offering farm-to-table dining experiences. Or take a stroll through the local craft shops and quirky antique stores scattered throughout the town.
Places to eat and drink
St Bernards Hotel
No visit to Mount Tamborine is complete without a stop at its oldest and most iconic pub, St Bernards Hotel. Tucked away on Alpine Terrace and perched on the edge of an ancient volcanic escarpment, this beloved local gem has been welcoming guests since 1881. Whether you’re enjoying a country-style meal with panoramic views stretching from the Guanaba Gorge to Stradbroke Island or saying ‘I do’ with the hotel’s resident St Bernards, this hotel delivers mountain hospitality at its finest.
Pippin Took 2
Located in the lush surrounds of Tamborine, Pippin Took 2 is a charming reincarnation of the beloved Brisbane original. This intimate restaurant offers refined dining in a relaxed, stylish setting, all with the added bonus of being BYO. With a focus on high-quality meals at reasonable prices, Pippin Took 2 pairs fine foods with warm, professional service, making it a must for those who appreciate good taste and good wine.
Places to stay
The Tamborine Boutique Hotel
A stylish reinvention of a mountain classic, The Tamborine Boutique Hotel blends retro charm with modern comfort. Originally built in 1978 as a hacienda-style motel, this tranquil hideaway was lovingly restored by Comuna Collective in 2024, preserving its character while upgrading its creature comforts. Tucked among the mountain’s lush greenery, it’s the perfect base for rest, romance, or a little rainforest revelry.
Tamborine Mountain Glades
Luxury meets lush rainforest at Tamborine Mountain Glades (formerly Cedar Creek Lodges). From stylish rooms to five-star glamping and lodges, this eco-conscious retreat located within Thunderbird Park brings comfort and charm to the great outdoors. With award-winning dining, a serene rainforest restaurant, and spaces for unforgettable weddings and conferences, it’s the kind of place that leaves you feeling recharged and a little more grounded.
Stonehaven Guesthouse
Nestled in central Mount Tamborine, Stonehaven Guesthouse is a cosy 4.5-star retreat that puts you within strolling distance of the mountain’s must-sees including some amazing waterfalls, wineries, and local galleries. With spacious king rooms, spa suites, and a rainforest-view lounge, it’s the perfect adults-only escape ‘atop the mountain’.
Things to do
Glow Worm Caves
A magical encounter with nature’s night lights awaits at the Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves. Purpose-built to protect the native Arachnocampa flava, this enchanting cave offers a rare chance to see glow worms sparkling in the dark, even during the day. Guided tours lead visitors through lush rainforest and into a custom-designed cave filled with thousands of twinkling glow worms thriving in a perfectly controlled environment.
Tamborine Mountain Distillery
A true pioneer of Queensland’s craft spirits scene, Tamborine Mountain Distillery has been turning heads, and winning awards, since 1993. What began as a humble family venture on a former orchard has grown into a globally recognised name, with over 300 international accolades to its name. From citrus brandy liqueurs to small-batch schnapps, this distillery blends tradition, innovation, and a splash of heritage with every bottle.
Witches Falls Winery
Set in the heart of the mountain, Witches Falls Winery is widely regarded as Queensland’s finest. This boutique winery artfully blends traditional winemaking techniques with cutting-edge practices to create wines of exceptional quality and character. With a welcoming cellar door open seven days a week, you will soon find out that the Witches Falls Winery is the perfect place to sip, swirl and soak in the beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland.