It has to be said: we live in a pretty special part of the world here in Southeast Queensland. But as we talk about it, it’s sometimes a little more challenging to translate this to people who may not have visited our sunshine state — even let alone Australia.

However, now it seems the whole world may be in on our little slice of paradise — or to be more precise, the enigmatic Scenic Rim just a short drive away across our hinterland! Recently unveiled across the world, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2022 names the top 10 countries, cities and regions to visit next year, with our very own Scenic Rim the only Australian inclusion! (We’ll take it!) This edition emphasised the best sustainable travel experiences and named the Scenic Rim 8th in the Top 10 Regions in the entire world.

Each year, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel lists start with nominations from Lonely Planet’s vast community of staff, writers, bloggers, publishing partners and more. Their panel of travel experts then whittles down the nominations to just 10 countries, 10 regions and 10 cities. Each is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow’ factor and its ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Amongst this prized list are inclusions such as the Westfjords in Iceland and the Atacama Desert of Chile! It appears our very own backyard is certainly rubbing shoulders with some iconic locations!

Lonely Planet’s Chris Zeiher had this to say, “after bouncing back from the 2019 Black Summer bushfires with a raft of new attractions and a renewed focus on sustainability, the Scenic Rim in Queensland is primed to become one of Australia’s low impact tourism power players. It’s such an untouched and diverse eco-based Australian destination. From the amazing food and wine to the incredible rainforest and bush walks and memorable places to stay, this is an unexpected pocket of Australia that has it all.”

Just 30 minutes from the heart of the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim stretches from Canungra to The Lost World, Beaudesert to Boonah, Tamborine Mountain to Kalbar, and is home to the ancient World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, historic national parks, charming towns and villages, adventure parks, farm stays, boutique wineries, ecolodges, tantalising gourmet experiences, world-class camping and glamping and breadth of stunning spaces in between.

But where did the name even come from? Adventurer, naturalist and tourism pioneer Arthur Groom, who went on to found Binna Burra, appears to be the originator of the phrase Scenic Rim. He used it to describe the spectacular semicircle of ancient volcanic mountains that wrap around the vista-full valleys, punctuating the farmlands below.

Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor Greg Christensen said being named in the Top 10 Regions globally for 2022 was a major victory but not undeserved.

“This is a region of plenty, of rugged ranges, valleys, winding roads and the most welcoming people in the world. It’s the region of flavour makers, growers, farmers, foodies and taste-chasers, path-makers and forward-thinking people who have worked to create visitor experiences that are unique, authentic, educational and sustainable, and have persisted during even the most tumultuous and challenging times. It’s here in the Scenic Rim, though, that locals and visitors alike feel enriched, and we are thrilled that this has been recognised; we look forward to sharing our beautiful region with visitors of all ages and from all corners of the world – as always, we ask everyone to tread lightly on our earth.”

Why not plan an excursion into the green behind the gold? Our glorious beaches will still be here when you get back!

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

It’s been a long few months and although of course we are lucky to live in paradise, the escapism feels are real at this point in time.

Excitingly, we’re allowed to venture out of this city of ours from now on and even more excitingly, we don’t actually have to venture very far to experience something completely different from the norm.

And here are five ways to do exactly that.

Cruise around Springbrook National Park
Take a drive through Springbrook National Park for an ample fill of dreamy views, winding roads and fresh country air. If you head toward Purlingbrook Falls, at the top of Mt Cougal National Park, you’ll find Dancing Waters Café, the cutest little cottage overlooking the rainforest where you can enjoy a wholesome, healthy lunch or some cake and a steaming cup of coffee. The Purlingbrook Falls lookout is right next door for your token road trip snaps and if (read: when) you fall in love with the place stay overnight in the cosy cottage accommodation (there’s a claw foot bathtub for ultimate chill time).
Where: Dancing Waters Café, 33 Forestry Road, Springbrook

Soak up the serenity at Spiral Beach
Just past Duranbah Beach, Spiral is somewhat of a locals’ secret making it the perfect spot to enjoy some solitude. No matter the season, there is usually some sun to be had so pack up your umbrella, a good book and your best do-nothing vibes and prepare for sweet serenity. Spiral Beach is also the perfect place for snorkeling around these parts due to the abundance of colourful coral and magical marine life. Get in quick before the water gets too chilly.
Where: Around the Corner from D’bah Beach, near Coolangatta (see, secretive)

Mount a steed at Gold Coast Equestrian Centre
There’s something so peaceful about sitting atop a horse with the wind in your hair and a world of adventure at your fingertips. The Gold Coast Equestrian Centre is the perfect place to experience exactly that whether you’re a beginner or simply in need of an activity where all you have to do is sit back and be carted around. Located in Guanaba, just 15 minutes from Helensvale Shopping Centre, the property is 50 acres of beautiful bushland and offers trail rides along the river and an Olympic-sized dressage area for those who know what they’re doing.
Where: 212 Stewart Road, Guanaba

Have a beer at The Wallaby Hotel
The Wallaby Hotel in Mudgeeraba, is one of Queensland’s oldest and most rustic hotels. Heritage listed, it opened in 1884 and was a watering hole for both horses and patrons and became the centerpiece for the Mudgeeraba township. Today, it’s the perfect place to escape the city for an afternoon coldie, a spot of live music and delicious pub-style eats. Bonus; if you find you’re having too good a time to come home, you can always stay the night.
Where: 45 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Hike the Witches Chase Track at Mt Tamborine
For those with energy to spare after a long working week, the Witches Chase track is for you. It’s a moderately difficult track that’s about a two hour round trip. The track descends through rainforest to Witches Falls and continues along the cliff to Witches Chase, passing big, beautiful red cedar trees and through the eucalypt forest and of course, there’s plenty of wildlife to keep an eye out for. You’ll be famished once you’ve made it back so pack a picnic or some BBQ supplies and put your feet up and relax for awhile before you head home.
Where: The Witches Chase Track starts from the picnic area on Main Western Road, Mt Tamborine

Words by Kirra Smith

If there’s one item, two technically, that will cause even the most sensible saver to blow their loot, it’s shoes. Our footwear fetish is forever fierce, whether it’s that perfect pair of timeless boots, or dazzling summer slides that will you go perfectly, with…umm.…well nothing yet, but we’ll totally find something coz buying threads to match our treads is how we shop.

So imagine a gorgeous store in the heart of Canungra boasting the highest quality ladies’ and gents’ shoes and continually refreshed with the latest styles. We’re talking the finest brands from Spain, Portugal, Italy, Turkey, and Brazil and besides reading like our dream vacay itinerary, it’s also a lusty line-up of on-fleek footwear origins.

We’re of course referring to The Shoe Vault, a slice of heaven for shoe enthusiasts seeking unique and eclectic styles, and those who’d rather ditch the shopping centre rat race and head to the stunning hinterland.

Owners Nora Jones and Matthew Jones have a bustling business on their hands (or feet…) and genuinely get their ‘kicks’ out of helping customers find the perfect shoe.

Opening eight years ago, they pride themselves not only on the quality of their stock, but also the consistently friendly customer service and wide range of shoewear.

Think both vibrant and neutral hued sandals, slides, espadrilles, casual heels, wedges, ankle boots, long boots, UGGs, everyday walking shoes, and even orthotic comfort shoes.

Fella’s, you’re not forgotten here with a stylish range of men’s shoes to keep hoofs looking and feeling good and PS, many-a-woman has cited good footwear choices as a dealbreaker #SoleMates.

A warm and inviting rustic space, The Shoe Vault is rich in historic charm and set amongst pretty-as-a-picture gardens and greenery. Well known for providing the Scenic Rim with the most comfortable and fashionable shoes, it’s not just the locals who source their treads here.

Loyal regulars travel from far and wide for their extensive range of beautiful Euro designs. Day-trippers also can’t help but pop in for a squiz and we dare you to leave without a boot full of amazing purchases. After all, if the shoe fits….

It’s not just all about the shoes though, and this might be the most ridiculous thing we’ve ever said because it’s always about the shoes #truth. What we mean is that there’s more to The Shoe Vault than fabulous footwear, including our other Achilles heels; leather handbags and gorgeous Adorne jewellery #HeartEyesEmoji. In other words, it’s a one-stop-shop for accessories, AKA actual utopia.

There’s a beautiful market space out back which has a new lick of paint and opens Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, rounding out the trifecta of what women want.

The only thing that could make this place even better is a coffee shop and a homewares store and boom, there’s both!

Joining The Shoe Vault family is Cosy Café for that mandatory coffee hit. Plus, you’ll also find Retrohub, your go-to for cool memorabilia, a giftware store (Secret Santa sorted), and the newly opened thong shop coz us Coasties can never have enough flip flops.

So whether you’re channelling that ‘well-heeled’ vibe or just want an excuse to get out of town and unwind, The Shoe Vault and its picturesque setting are the perfect ‘pair’.

Where: 35 Christie Street, Canungra
When: 9am – 4pm Monday – Friday & 8.30am – 3pm Saturday & Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen.
Pictures by Carly King.

STORY SPONSORED BY THE SHOE VAULT