SITE PARTNER:

10 Top Weekend Escapes

from Brisbane

Updated: Jul 25, 2026

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

Morning Art Riser Tour – Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company

Experience GOMA before the gallery opens

Until April 15, 2027

Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation

Experience the most beloved animated movie soundtracks

Oct 23-24

Tangalooma Dunes Cabana Club

Australia’s first year-round beachfront cabana club has arrived

Horror Movie Campout

Horror Movie Campout is a full-on immersive overnight horror camping experience

Oct 24-25

Ladies standing in an art studio looking at art

Sandgate Art Society Creative Trail

Discover this northside art trail over two art-filled weekends

Oct 24-25, 30 & Oct 31 - Nov 1

2026 Let’s Go Explore Caravan and RV Expo

The 2026 Let’s Go Explore Caravan and RV Expo is rolling back into Brisbane

Oct 29 - Nov 1

WSW MEGA MANIA

Brisbane is in for a serious dose of international wrestling action

Oct 30

Jimboomba Festival

Three huge days of carnival rides, fireworks, live entertainment and more!

Oct 30 - Nov 1

Melbourne Cup Day at The Regatta Hotel

Celebrate Melbourne Cup Day with flowing drinks, fine food, live racing and riverside vibes at The Regatta Hotel.

Nov 3

2026 Let’s Go Explore Caravan and RV Expo

The 2026 Let’s Go Explore Caravan and RV Expo is rolling back into Brisbane Showgrounds bringing four days of caravans, motorhomes, outdoor gear and everything you need for your next great escape

2026 Let’s Go Explore Caravan and RV Expo

MUST DO

Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation

Queensland Symphony Orchestra brings some of the most beloved animated movie soundtracks of all time to life at Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation

Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation

THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do Oct 16-18

A colourful new QAG exhibition, Menopause The Musical, Guy Montgomery’s Spelling Bee and a cult-favourite scroll shop opens its first-ever storefront - here are the top things to do in Brisbane and beyond this weekend:

This Weekend Oct 16-18

COMING UP

What's on in November in & around Brisbane

From Spring Carnival racing and Melbourne Cup events to Supanova Comic-Con, blockbuster theatre, world-first exhibitions and adults-only arts and crafts parties, what's on in November

What's On in November 2026

BEST OF BRISBANE

50+ Best Restaurants in Brisbane

Looking for the best restaurants in Brisbane? Then check out this guide for the must-do dining experiences from the city to the suburbs

Best Restaurants in Brisbane

Best Of Brisbane

Brisbane's Best 50 Bars

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

Best Bars in Brisbane

A brand-new Nutcracker is coming to Brisbane