Family road trip: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast

Itinerary in brief:

• 3 nights Glasshouse Mountains
• 4 nights Caloundra

Day 1: Arrive Brisbane

On arrival in Brisbane, pick up your rental car from the airport and head straight to the Glasshouse Mountains, an hour north of the city. Check into the Glasshouse Mountains Ecolodge for the next 3 nights, a peaceful and eclectic eco-property in the heart of the mountains.

You can spend the rest of the day settling in, before heading out for an evening meal. There are endless dining options available only 30 minutes away at the Sunshine Coast, but if you prefer to stay local, you’ll find a quirky, converted train carriage with self-catering facilities and locally-produced goods available to buy.

Day 2: Glasshouse Mountains

There are so many activities to keep you busy at the hotel or outside. With walking tracks that start from the entrance of the hotel why not head out on a gentle hike for a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding area and some bird spotting along the way. Day tour options can also be added on with trips to K'gari (formerly Fraser Island), whale watching and kayaking to name but a few.

Day 3: Australia Zoo

We have included admission to Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo for all the family today! With over 1200 animals and free wildlife shows there is loads to keep the kids occupied. Check out the Crocoseum show as you watch the crocodiles snapping up their lunch or get up close to the cuddly koalas, wombats, kangaroos and many more.

Day 4: Glasshouse Mountains to Caloundra

Check out of your hotel this morning and hop in the car for 30 minutes to the popular holiday coastal town of Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast. It’s an up and coming little town drawing more popularity in recent years because of the music festival at the end of September. Here you will check into your apartment at the Oaks Oasis for 4 nights. This hotel is perfect for all the family as it is set on 10 acres of lush tropical grounds and features a water park, lagoon pool, mini golf course, climbing frame, kangaroo jumping pillow, tennis and volleyball court!

Day 5: Caloundra

There are numerous beaches that make up the coast up Caloundra, most of which are patrolled on weekends and school holidays making them very family friendly including Kings Beach and Dicky Beach. They are really popular for water sports such as surfing, kite surfing and windsurfing if you fancy taking up a new hobby.

Days 6 & 7: Caloundra

A really popular day out is walking or cycling the Caloundra coastal path. It stretches from Golden Beach to the sandy beaches of Kawana via numerous nature reserves and historical sites. It’s a great way to get out into nature with stunning views and some spots for swimming, fishing and a family picnic along the way.

Day 8: Depart Brisbane

Check out your hotel and head back to Brisbane today to drop off your rental car before flying to your next destination.