Binna Burra and Beachmont return via Cunungra and Mount Tamborine Tour

(The Start and End point for the Hinterland Tours is Ruffles Lodge)

Wind through the lush rainforest of Lamington National Park and then cruise through the rustic orange and green hues of the iconic Australian bushland.

This circuit is a pleasant 2 hours and 30 minutes of driving time. It's a one hour's drive from Ruffles Lodge to Binna Burra in Lamington National Park. The most interesting return drive is via Conungra which takes 30 minutes and then to Mount Tamborine, which is a further 35 minutes. It takes around 25 minutes to return to Ruffles Lodge from Mount Tamborine.

After leaving Ruffles Lodge and joining Reserve Rd you head south to the junction with Oxenford Tamborine Road where you turn left, cross the Coomera river and then turn right into Maudsland Road. Continue on for about 8 klms until you come to a T junction. Turn left onto the Beaudesert Nerang road (90), drive through Mount Nathan until you come to another T junction and turn right into Nerang Murwillubah Road (3). Stay on this road and follow the signs for Beechmont and Binna Burra. Wind through scenic countryside with beautiful views of Hinze Dam and the lush surrounds. You will pass through the tiny hamlet of Beachmont where a stop at the Bavarian Hut is highly recommended (if it's open). The quaint cafe is run by a Bavarian couple and is full of German warmth and atmosphere.

From there you will drive through the lush Lamington National Park. Stretching out across the McPherson Ranges in south-east Queensland, Lamington National Park is a World Heritage-listed wilderness area which comprises Australia's largest remnant of sub-tropical rainforest. More than 160 kms of walking tracks wind their way through fern-filled gullies, wind-eroded caves and up to breathtaking lookouts. On the highest peaks misty forests of ancient Antartic Beech trees date back over 2000 years and down in the valleys, crystal clear streams cascade over moss-covered boulders into deep mountain pools. There are walks to suit every need, from a gentle 1.2 km return introduction to the rainforest to 20km full-day walks. For further information on the walks and maps please ask at Ruffles Lodge.

If you've worked up an appetite from walking, the Lamington Tea House is a pleasant stop. The cosy cafe offers beautiful views and a wide selection of hearty meals and tempting sweets. Lunch is also available from Binna Burra Lodge, where they offer lunch for $21 Monday to Saturday and $24 Sundays and public holidays. It is advisable to book in advance.

After leaving Binna Burra turn left at the roundabout at Beachmont and follow signs to Cunungra. The cute town of Conungra offers country views and a sprinkling of local cafes, shops and a local pub. From there head out of town the way you came in and take the Main Western Road to Mount Tamborine, well sign posted on the left. This road has a short distance of single lane traffic controlled by traffic lights. The view to the west is spectacular, but make sure the driver keeps his eye on the road. Once you get closer to North Tamborine the surrounding bush becomes more rain forest If you've still got an appetite there's plenty of atmospheric restaurants and cafes at Mount Tamborine. Gallery Walk in central Mount Tamborine is also great visit with its many boutique shops and galleries. Parking can be a problem.

RUFFLES LODGE

Ruffles Lodge is located in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland midway between the coast and the mountains. Ruffles Lodge is a Luxury 5 star Retreat that offers fine dining and a cellar with a large collection of Australian boutique wines. There are 16 Golf Courses available within 30 minutes drive and we have a practice area at the lodge. Only a pleasant drive to Tamborine Mountain, Springbrook and Lamington national parks with the rainforest areas of Binna Burra and O'Reillys. A 25 minute drive to the Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise shopping centres and beaches. The local vineyards and wineries make for an interesting tour in the mountains and surrounding areas.

THE LODGE

When we decided to build RUFFLES our first choice of architect was Chris Beckingham, well known for his beautiful homes and retreats in the tourist area of the Whitsundays. Our first challenge was to persuade him to accept a commission well south of his stamping ground. We felt sure that if he would agree to visit the site he would accept the challenge of such a beautiful place, in-fact the completed lodge follows closely his original concept from that first visit to the site.

The main building is an extension of the Queenslander style with large veranda, stone walls, high ceilings and beautiful timbers. The use of aged timbers re-milled from 100-year-old wharves along the Brisbane river, add to the charm. The dining and lounge area is an ideal place for meeting before dinner. The large covered terrace also provides another place for dining during the warmer months and the poolside gazebo with its wood-fired oven is yet another great place for dinner or breakfast with views east across rambling hills to the ocean. The "garden gazebo", situated on a raised knoll with views in all directions and the sun all day, is an ideal place to relax with a book, enjoy a coffee or a complimentary drink from the fridge.

Located in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland, the Luxury 5 star Ruffles Lodge is sure to please with its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful secenery. Reserve your accommodation with Ruffles Lodge today.