As a powerful woman with a passion for adventure, Australia had always been on my travel bucket list. As an avid hiker and cyclist, I couldn’t resist the allure of Queensland’s picturesque landscapes and exhilarating trails.
I chose July for this adventure, knowing the mild winter would offer perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable journey through Australia, filled with stunning views, thrilling rides, and memorable hikes.
Chapter Trail
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization
Welcome to Brisbane! After a smooth collection from Brisbane Airport, I arrived at my cozy accommodation in the heart of the city. The rest of the day was spent exploring Brisbane’s vibrant streets and relaxing after the long flight. In the evening, I enjoyed a delightful meal with local wines, meeting our guide and fellow adventurers. The excitement for the days ahead was palpable.
Day 2: Downhill Delight
The adventure truly began with a 50-kilometer downhill ride from Brisbane to Yarraman. After breakfast, we transferred to the start of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT), collected our bikes, and set off.
The trail offered a gentle descent with expansive views, and a lunch stop at the Old Church Gallery café was a pleasant surprise. We continued our ride, marveling at the Harlin tunnel and the heritage-listed Lockyer Creek bridge, before arriving in Esk for the night. Dinner at a local pub or Thai restaurant capped off a perfect day.
Day 3: Wildlife and Scenic Rides
The day began with a flat 40-kilometer ride from Esk to Ipswitch along the BVRT. The trail was teeming with wildlife, including koalas, echidnas, and emus, making the ride even more enchanting.
The restored rail stations along the route provided excellent photo opportunities. Our journey ended at the luxurious Hidden Vale Resort in the Lockyer Valley, where we were surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Day 4: Hiking the Scenic Rim
Our hiking adventure started with a five-kilometer uphill hike after an early breakfast. Guided by local experts, we learned about the region’s flora, fauna, and history.
A brief stop at Millarvale Creek for afternoon tea was a highlight, with the soothing sounds of water adding to the serene atmosphere. By 4 PM, we arrived at our lodge, where a warm welcome, hot tub, and a chef-prepared meal awaited. The evening ended with stargazing and stories about early settlers.
Day 5: Exploring the Great Dividing Range
The day’s hike was filled with discovery and connection with nature. Starting with a gentle walk along Oakey Creek, we spotted goannas, wedge-tail eagles, and wallabies.
The ascent to Spicers Peak was challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the Great Dividing Range and Mt Mitchell. The final push to Spicers Peak Lodge was exhilarating, and the luxurious lodge provided a perfect place to relax and celebrate our achievements.
Day 6: A Gourmet Finale
The last day was a delightful change of pace, focusing on relaxation and gourmet indulgence. We transferred back to Brisbane via Sirromet Winery in Mount Cotton. The winery tour, tasting, and lunch on the Tuscan Terrace were memorable highlights.
Learning about Sirromet’s journey and tasting their award-winning wines was the perfect end to an incredible adventure. We arrived back in Brisbane around 4 PM, full of wonderful memories and a sense of accomplishment.
Conclusion
My hiking and cycling vacation in Queensland was an experience I’ll cherish forever. The combination of thrilling rides, scenic hikes, and gourmet delights made it an unforgettable journey.
As a powerful woman, embracing these challenges and savoring these moments was empowering and exhilarating. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a casual explorer, Queensland’s diverse landscapes and warm hospitality offer something for everyone. July was the perfect time to visit, and I can’t wait to return for more adventures down under.
Check out the free itinerary to Queensland in Australia from Baboo Travel below:
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!
