Explore

Explore the Area

Perfectly positioned beneath the spectacular peaks of Mount Barney National Park, Barney Creek Cottages & Farm Stay places you in the heart of one of Queensland's most beautiful natural playgrounds. Whether you're seeking adventure, breathtaking scenery, local food and wine, or peaceful country drives, the Scenic Rim offers something for every traveller.

Exploring The Scenic Rim: Get Active

Just minutes from Barney Creek Farm Stay lies the magnificent Mount Barney National Park, one of South East Queensland's most iconic natural destinations.

Part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, the park is renowned for its ancient volcanic peaks, crystal-clear creeks, rugged mountain scenery and extraordinary biodiversity. It's home to more than 700 plant species and over 340 animal species, including platypus, brush-tailed rock-wallabies and an incredible variety of native birds.

Whether you're looking for a gentle nature walk or a full-day mountain adventure, there's a trail to suit almost every level of experience.

  • 7.4 km return | Approx. 3 hours | Grade 4

    One of the region's most popular walks, the Lower Portals Track winds through open eucalypt forest before reaching spectacular rock pools and a beautiful natural gorge carved into Mount Barney Creek.

    Bring your camera, enjoy a picnic by the water or simply relax beside the creek and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

  • 2 km return | Approx. 1 hour | Grade 4

    Short on time but wanting unforgettable views?

    The Yellow Pinch Lookout walk rewards visitors with panoramic views of Mount Barney and the surrounding Scenic Rim after a relatively short climb.

    It's an ideal sunrise or late afternoon walk and one of the best places to appreciate the scale and beauty of the mountain.

  • 8 km return | Approx. 3 hours | Grade 4

    For more adventurous walkers, the Upper Portals offers dramatic scenery with smooth rock formations, cascading water and secluded swimming holes.

    Access requires a 4WD to reach the trailhead, making this a quieter and more secluded experience.

  • 12 km return | Approx. 4 hours | Grade 4

    For experienced bushwalkers, this rewarding hike follows picturesque creek crossings through native forest before arriving at the beautiful Cronan Creek Falls.

    It's one of the quieter walks within the national park and perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.

  • For experienced hikers seeking a true challenge, climbing Mount Barney is one of Queensland's most rewarding adventures.

    The summit routes involve steep ascents, rock scrambling and navigation through rugged terrain, rewarding well-prepared hikers with breathtaking views across the Scenic Rim and northern New South Wales.

    Please note: The summit routes are not maintained walking tracks and are recommended only for experienced, well-equipped bushwalkers with excellent fitness and navigation skills.

The Scenic Rim: Foodies’ Delight

From coffee and cake to five-star restaurants, the Scenic Rim is quickly becoming known as a food and wine lover’s nirvana with endless opportunities to indulge.

The fertile, volcanic soils of the region are responsible for some exceptional quality local produce, which you’ll find not just at roadside stalls and markets – but also on the menus of the region’s finest restaurants.

Local winemakers are passionate about Queensland wine and you’ll see why when you sample some of their best whites and full-bodied reds. If wine isn’t your tipple of choice, Tamborine Mountain also has two boutique breweries and a distillery. And don’t worry about over-imbibing and driving. Many local operators offer food and wine tours, so you can leave the keys behind.

Before you head home, be sure to stock up on supplies by visiting the growers and producers of local cheese, wine, olives and preserves.

Wildlife: Life on the Land

Mount Barney National Park is World Heritage-listed and is classified as a wilderness park, which means you’re seeing the area in its most natural and untouched form.

Both the park and our 40-acre property are nestled within a biodiversity hotspot that covers the entire Scenic Rim. We share this beautiful place with Australia’s most iconic wildlife – koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and platypus – as well as about half of Australia’s bird species.

Remember feeding native animals human food can cause them to become very sick. Please, do not feed the animals.