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10 Top Weekend Escapes

from Brisbane

Updated: Jul 26, 2025

Looking for a luxury escape without the long journey? From Byron Bay to the Scenic Rim, here are 10 top places within 2.5 hours drive of Brisbane, including rainforest villas, tiny eco houses, luxe farm stays, a hilltop bubble dome and wine barrel cabins in a winery:

Petrichor Estate & Dome Experience

This luxe, 3-bed villa and a bubble dome boasts jaw-dropping 360 degree views of the Glass House Mountains and the sea

The Brooklet

Escape from the hustle & bustle and unwind in the tranquil surrounds of this 125 acre oasis nestled in the Byron Bay hinterland

Barrel View Luxury Cabins

These giant wine barrels have been converted into luxury state-of-the-art cabins in the heart of wine country

Pethers Rainforest Retreat

Situated amidst 15 acres of breathtaking sub-tropical rainforest, Pethers Rainforest Retreat offers a unique luxury boutique experience

Beechmont Estate

A magnificent luxury retreat set on a picturesque 75 acre property in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland

Mayan Farm Luxe Villas

Mayan Farm Luxe Villas is a stunning property for those seeking isolation, space, and luxury, nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland

Blackbird

Blackbird Byron is a boutique, adults-only retreat, offering a secluded haven for guests to slow down and connect to nature

essence

essence is a stunning boutique hotel and collection of beach homes nestled on the edge of the Noosa National Park and just a short stroll from Peregian Beach

The Firebreak

Luxury off-grid accommodation with stone fireplace, wood-fired hot tub, outdoor bath & breathtaking views of the Bunya Mountains

Narrows Escape Retreat

A rainforest paradise with eight luxury self-contained villas nestled in nature, four with private plunge pools

Olafur Eliasson: Presence

An expansive exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson

Dec 6 - Jul 12

Crowd watching characters on stage Christmas Carols Logan

City of Logan Christmas Carols

Get into the festive spirit at City of Logan Christmas Carols

Dec 6

The BIG Handmade Christmas Design Market

Celebrate mindful making, creativity and thoughtful buying this festive season

Dec 7

A Very Naughty Christmas

Australia’s longest running adults-only Christmas comedy is back

Dec 11-21

Sweet Charity

Fall in love with timeless hits, sensational performances and the promise of “hopefully ever after

Dec 11-14

A Cracker Kransky Christmas

A crock pot of cracker hits with The Kransky Sisters

Dec 16-21

Christmas Day Dining at The Star Brisbane

Looking for somewhere special to dine on Christmas Day?

Dec 25

Swingers - The Art of Mini Golf

Brisbane Powerhouse launches with a bold new exhibition

Jan 10 - Mar 1

Tamworth Country Music Festival

Australia’s largest and longest running music festival returns for its 54th year

Jan 16-25

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The Lockyer Valley's rolling hills, local markets and paddock to plate country cafes, make for a scenic, leisurely drive, less than two hours from Brisbane

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Whether you're after breezy drinks by the river, a stiff whiskey in an underground bar, a cosy laneway hideaway or a rooftop with views, here's 50 of Brisbane's best bars

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