A day on Tamborine Mountain

words by ben stephens

There are certain things that make the Gold Coast the brilliant habitat that it is.

It’s hard to throw a finger at just one thing; you’ve that rolling right-hand break that is Snapper Rocks, the unique nightlife that makes up Surfers Paradise and of course, those incredible sunrises over the pacific.

Geographically, the mountains that make up the western horizon add something uniquely special with rainforests, waterfalls and top-notch food and wine offerings.

If you can peel yourself away from the coast, here is a little highlight reel of what lays in the surrounds of Mount Tamborine , or Tamborine Mountain, depending who you talk to.

Adventure
As you roll over and see that the time is 4.30am, you might think that sleep would be the better choice, but no. It’s time to get up and prep yourself for a morning sunrise that you won’t forget; taking it in from a wicker basket held in the air by the magic that is hot air. The views on offer from a hot air balloon trip across the foothills of Tamborine will take your breath away. It’s just that darn beautiful. Hotel to balloon return transfers and breakfast, suss more deets HERE

Coffee
Once you come down from the clouds above, you’ll need a cup of Joe to keep the spirits up. ThankfullyTambourine is home to a bunch of awesome coffee roasters and producers. A personal favourite would be the Chocolate Gallery. A spot with that comes with a bunch of sweet, chocolate delights that go so well with a coffee of your choice… or double down and grab a hot chocolate.

Cheese
Without cheese, we wouldn’t have happiness. As you’re touring around Tamborine you’d be silly to not stop off at Witches Chase Cheese Company. A husband and wife team that set up shop on the mountain back in 2004. Since then they have created many a wheel and have become rather skilled at the art. Make sure you try out the Clothbound Cheddar, Misty Mountain Blue and the Triple Cream Brie. Once you try them, purchase a stack to take home. You won’t regret it.

Markets
If you’re on the hunt for the fresh produce, then clear your Sunday schedule and make your way to the Mount Tam Showgrounds for a range of farm fresh produce. This stuff has come straight from the ground to the market, ensuring that freshness is the big winner here… and the farmers. Every Sunday from 7.00am till midday.

Wine
Would it be worth a road trip without a stop at a boutique winery? Probably not. The Mount is home to many, many wine producers; to name a handful would not do it justice, so to name a wine tasting tour might help you out. The team at the aptly named Mount Tamborine Wine Tasting Tour will take you around the who’s who of the area and have you quaffing some of finest wine from the region.