Heading west

Words Melinda Burton | Photos Supplied

CATCHMENT

As coastal fringe dwellers, we often overlook the beauty of what’s in our own backyard. With regional tourism soaring to new heights, the allure of Canungra calls.

SOMETIMES It’s worthwhile to get out of your comfort zone.Living on the sun-kissed Gold Coast, we often take advantage of the short drive to picturesque white beaches, vibrant retail and dining hotspots and the thriving nightlife.But there’s more to be seen close to home than its famous coastline, and all it takes is a little venture beyond the black stump to see it.You don’t have to travel far to take in a different way of life (45 minutes from our Robina dealership) and none more so apparent than in the stunning country township of Canungra.Brimming with heritage-listed architecture and plenty to see and do, Canungra oozes vintage vibes and serves as a perfect weekend getaway spot to let your hair down.Cowboy boots are perfectly acceptable in Canungra, which hosts its annual rodeo in July of each year, drawing in thousands of boot scooting tourists who are captivated by its country charm.But in this part of the picturesque Scenic Rim there’s more to do than just kickabout in the dust. In recent years the quaint country town has played host to a swathe of swanky dining options, luxury accommodation offerings and a selection of exciting retail stores.

Where to stay

Country Mile Escape - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.
Cottage on Lamington - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.

Country Mile Escape

Nestled in the gorgeous hillside just 12 minutes from town, Country Mile Escape offers a limited number of private residences with magical views and a superb backdrop for a relaxing rural escape. Enjoy long walks around the 70-acre property and catch the breath-taking scenery. Ideal for a romantic stay!

Cottage On Lamington

Another charming country cottage experience awaits at The Cottage on Lamington, where a romantic setting means a blanket and a bottle of bubbly by the outdoor firepit under the stars. A gorgeous getaway to enjoy privacy in your very own holiday home.

Where to eat and drink

Six Oaks Espresso - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.
Canungra Hotel - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.

Six Oaks Espresso

Six Oaks Espresso brings a hardy dose of hipster brew to Canungra’s country township. Serving up a delicious array of food and coffee on weekends, the welcoming atmosphere and lovely furnishings make this a must-stop coffee spot.

Canungra Hotel

An oldie but a goodie (built in 1916), Canungra Hotel is heritage heaven in the picturesque Scenic Rim region, and offers a cosy environment to enjoy a rustic woodfired pizza, a refreshing beer and delicious red wines on a cool evening.

Where to shop

MBGC- March 2026

My Country Escape

The My Country Escape store showcases a stunning array of homewares, beauty products and artisanal wares and is located right in the centre of town. Why not pamper yourself in style while on vacay?

Canungra Books and Art store

Canungra Books and Art

There’s nothing more satisfying than a great country town bookstore. We all ought to slow down and kick back with a good read. After all, Canungra is the ideal spot to switch off your devices and enjoy life.

Where to shop

Canungra Rodeo - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.

Canungra Rodeo

The annual Canungra Rodeo is a must-do experience in July. The event is South East Queensland’s most popular one-day rodeo, there’s plenty of action for all ages and we highly recommend giving it a whirl. With live music, food stalls, bull rides, barrel racing, bareback riding and more, it’s a chance for you to unleash your inner cowboy/cowgirl. The 2026 Canungra Rodeo is held on July 12.

Canungra Village Markets - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.

Canungra Village Markets

The Scenic Rim’s most vibrant regional, village market is held in Canungra on the second Sunday of every month at Moriarty Park Hall and Sportsground. Featuring spectacular foodie fare, arts, crafts, homewares and clothing, the Canungra Village Markets should definitely be on your to-do-list! You can keep updated via their Facebook page.

Mountview Alpaca Farm - Canungra, Scenic Rim, South East Queensland.

Mountview Alpaca Farm

Fancy yourself cuddling up with some cute creatures at the picturesque O’Reillys Valley Vineyard? At Mountview Alpaca Farm, you can feed some four-legged friends and take a scenic stroll around the vineyard grounds. You can also order a delicious drop (or full bottle) of vineyard produced wine, a picnic hamper for a cosy lunch in a laidback country setting next to Canungra Creek.

Statistics

Population: 5,871

Private dwellings: 336

Medium house price: $1,050,000

Medium age: 42

Median weekly rent: $748

Land area (hectares): 29.8 sq kms