Scenic Rim Trail
A WEEKEND
(Two days, two nights)
There’s more to Queensland’s landscape than its (undeniably gorgeous) beaches. Deep in the state’s south-east, the Scenic Rim region is renowned for its Gondwana Rainforests and the prehistoric peaks of the Great Dividing Range (scenicrim trail.com). This walk undulates between challenges and rewards on every day of vigorous hiking, with chef-cooked meals and the plush luxury of glamping tents at Spicers Canopy. It’s not for the faint-hearted, though. There’s some serious trekking involved, especially on the second day, when you spend most of the morning tramping up a steep ridgeline into Main Range National Park (the sweat’s worth it – this is the best area to see rare glossy black cockatoos). The trek ends with a resplendent afternoon tea at Spicers Peak Lodge or back at your tented base camp.
The 101
Spicers supply everything you need for the trek itself, including a daypack, water and lunch, and the rest of your luggage is handily transported to camp. Once you reach Spicers Canopy, your every need is taken care of, from iced elderflower water and cold hand towels on arrival to what might be the best meal you’ve ever eaten at a campsite. A typical dinner? Beef rump cap with smoked shallots, nori and wattle butter then chocolate and Pernod sorbet with whipped honey and lemon myrtle meringue. Keep that top of mind as you push through the tough parts.
The moment
Depending who you ask, the highlights of this experience take place either on the trek itself or in the luxury glamping oasis. For guide Scott Roberts, it’s a bit of both. “Spotting koalas is always a huge thrill – my record is seven in one day,” he says. “But once you get to Canopy, nothing beats slipping into a fresh white robe and what would have to be the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in.”