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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

LUMINOUS Lantern Parade 2026

Much-loved LUMINOUS Lantern Parade returns to South Bank Parklands

Jul 31

International Cake Show Australia

The world’s greatest Baking & Sugar Craft Carnival is set to take over Brisbane

Jul 31 - Aug 2

International Cake Show Workshops & Mini Classes

For anyone with an interest in baking or decorating

Jul 31 - Aug 2

GreazeFest 2026

GreazeFest is back for 3 huge days of music, cars and kulture!

Jul 31 - Aug 2

Queensland Fringe Festival

Queensland Fringe hits the road this August with music, art, food and adventure.

Aug 1–7

Rogue Chef

Chef Anthony Healy brings bold flavours and unforgettable dining to Queensland Fringe.

Aug 1-7

GATHAA First Nations Markets

Experience the creativity, culture and community of First Nations makers

Aug 1-2

Tweed Equestrian Queensland International Three Day Event

Experience three days of world-class equestrian sport

Jul 31 - Aug 2

Ashton's Great Australian Circus

Step inside the big top as Ashton's The Great Australian Circus returns

Jul 31 - Aug 9

GreazeFest 2026

GreazeFest, the iconic hot rod and rockabilly festival, is back for three huge days of cool cars, live music and kustom kulture

GreazeFest 2026

MUST DO

International Cake Show Australia

From full day workshops to mini decorating classes, there's something for everyone at the International Cake Show Australia

International Cake Show Australia

THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do July 24-26

James St Food & Wine Trail returns, QAGOMA's Drawing Festival begins, a vibrant arts trail on the Sunshine Coast, a must-visit new patisserie and a new Sicilian-style family trattoria

This Weekend July 24-26

COMING UP

What's On in August in Brisbane

From Greazefest, The Gospel According to Paul, The Music of Barbra Streisand and Peaks to Points Festival to whale watching, the top things to do in August in and around Brisbane

Wjat's on in August

DINING DESTINATION

Sipping and Snacking on King St

King Street has become one of Brisbane's premier dining destinations, serving up everything from award-winning restaurants and global flavours to casual eats, cocktails and decadent desserts

Sipping and Snacking on King St

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 Spectacular Barbra Streisand Tribute Hits QPAC