From surf to summit within a day
Imagine if there was a land where you could go from swimming in the sparkling blue waters off a sun-drenched beach to the cooler climes of an ancient rainforest in just a few minutes. Where you could be eating breakfast overlooking the ocean with the sand between your toes in the morning, then diving into waterfalls and spotting wildlife in the rainforest, come the afternoon.
Sounds like an impossible dream? Well it’s not. Because behind the world-famous beaches and top-class hotels of Australia’s glorious Gold Coast lies a stunning secret – the Hinterland, the largest subtropical rainforest on the planet. And it’s just 45 minutes away.
THE GREEN BEHIND THE GOLD
So for a change of pace after soaking up the sun on the Gold Coast’s 35 miles of breathtaking beaches, head off through picturesque winding roads and verdant hills dotted with vineyards to reach a very different Australia. One where you can trek up extinct volcanos, visit aweinspiring lookouts and explore enchanting caves before cooling off in mountain streams. It’s a haven for foodies, too – choose from one of the world-class restaurants or indulge in local produce like avocados, kiwi fruits and macadamia nuts, award-winning cheeses and home-made fudge. Just go easy on the topclass liqueurs and worldfamous eaux-de-vie…