Sip, snack and soak up serene surrounds on this Scenic Rim pub trail
Just an hour’s drive from Brisbane and one hour inland from the Gold Coast is where you’ll find a picturesque paradise bursting with local flavours, friendly farms, wineries, breweries, pubs and more. Bordered by the Great Dividing Range and World Heritage-listed National Parks, the Scenic Rim – as its name suggests – is one of the most scenic places in Queensland (in our humble opinion), and there’s no better way to soak up its serene surrounds then by sipping and snacking the day away at one of its top-notch taverns. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, give this Scenic Rim pub trail a go – trust us, it won’t disappoint.
Take a seat at the Scenic Rim’s first gastro-pub
Newly renovated, The Roadvale Hotel is oozing old-school charm with its wooden flaws, fireplaces and welcoming decor. Boasting a cocktail bar, dog-friendly beer garden and a kitchen helmed by acclaimed flavour maker Dan Groneberg, this gastro-pub, which is the first of its kind to the region, is a must visit.
Chow down on giant pretzels and guzzle boutique brews at Scenic Rim Brewery
Just past Boonah, in the picture-perfect town of Mount Alford is where you’ll find Scenic Rim Brewery. This family-owned brewery – run by owners Mike and Wendy – certainly packs a big flavour punch, with a superb range of brews available (of course), alongside a palate-pleasing menu that nods to co-owner Wendy’s Dutch heritage. You can stick your fork into bitterballen (Dutch meatballs), giant pretzels and a range of European gourmet hotdogs as well as great coffee, cake and daily specials.
The perfect parmy awaits at The Canungra Hotel
Parmy enthusiasts, if there’s one stop on this list that we suggest to visit, it’s The Canungra Hotel. This place is a parmy-lovers paradise, with more than 10 different toppings available ranging from a traditional parmigiana to a decadent French parmigiana with house-made Napolitana sauce, bacon, brie cheese, avocado and hollandaise sauce. Located at the base of the Mount Tamborine, this beautiful pub is perfect place to perch for a parmy and a pint.
Experience the quintessential Australian country pub at ‘The Dugie’
Pouring cold beers since 1886, The Dugandan Hotel or The Dugie as it’s affectionately known, is where you’ll find a slice of Scenic Rim history. Located just five minutes outside Boonah, The Dugie serves up traditional pub grub and hearty country classics, alongside icy-cold beers and drool-worthy wines.
Sample hoppy brews and tasty cheese at Fortitude Brewing Co.
Located at the end of the Gallery Walk at My Tamborine, Fortitude Brewing Co. is known for its mouth-watering roster of gourmet pizza, cheese platters and beer-tasting paddles. Head here on the weekend to soak up smooth sounds from local musicians and while away the afternoon in the beer garden.
Say g’day to The Royal Hotel’s resident ghost
Formerly the Harrisville Inn, The Royal Hotel Harrisville’s story started in 1875. After being destroyed in a fire in 1916, the hotel was rebuilt to its former glory and continues to dish up authentic country pub fare. Nab a spot in the beer garden and soak up sublime views of the Great Dividing Range. If you’re lucky, or unlucky depending on how you look at it, you may be payed a visit by The Royal Hotels resident ghost. There’s plenty of spooky stories to share, so be sure to ask one of the staff for more info … if you dare.
Sip and snack on 110 hinterland acres
Set on 110 awe-inspiring acres and boasting sweeping views across The Ferndale Stud Farm, The Bearded Dragon Tavern has been serving up a classic Aussie pub experience for more than 20 years. With 15 local and imported beers on tap, a mouth-watering menu filled with classic pub meals and views that are sure to wow your socks off, this tavern is a must-visit along the Scenic Rim pub trail.
Nab a cheap pub lunch at The Australian Hotel
We love a lunch deal and lucky for us this traditional country pub serves up delicious lunches for as little as $9.90 everyday. Built in 1888, The Australian Hotel in Boonah has been a favourite of locals and visitors alike for many years.
Devour pub fare within the foodie town of Kalbar
If you haven’t visited Kalbar before, then be sure to add this stop to your Scenic Rim itinerary. This super cute country town is home to a bounty of nosh spots and fresh produce providores, and The Royal Hotel is one of them. It’s here where you can enjoy great steaks, local produce, pizza and a bread range of cafe-style bites in a family-friendly setting. Be sure to book ahead though, as this pub fills up quickly.
Experience a slice of Queensland history at The Beaudesert Hotel
One of Beaudesert’s most historic and established dining venues The Beaudesert Hotel, also known as ‘The Beauy’, offers accommodation, a 150-seat dining room, great bar areas and gaming rooms. After undergoing an extensive renovation in 2015, The Beauy is now modern and sleek inside, while still keep its classic country pub charm.
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