Mt. Coot-Tha

As far back as 1880, Mount Coot-tha was declared a Public Reservation Reserve, and has been a well known, attractive bushland tourist destination since. Mount Coot-tha is loosely translated as "place of honey" and while the native Aboriginals may have been referring to the bees that inhabited the hillside, the sweet views from the top give the name an extra layer of significance.

The reserve covers an expansive 1,500 hectares with dozens of bike trails and walkways to explore. There are activities for every level of fitness. Choose a walkway that runs along Ithaca Creek and you will find yourself at J. C. Slaughter Falls.

Make sure to admire the aboriginal rock paintings as you trek through this bush reserve. Don't forget to check out the magnificently landscaped Botanical Gardens at the foot of the mountain.

Are you an adrenaline junkie or a fitness fanatic? Then challenge yourself to riding on any of the specialised mountain bike trails. Pick up a map or check out Brisbane City Council website for trails which are marked on the guides. If you don't have a bike with you, don't worry, you can rent one in the city. The trail to the top is strenuous exercise and not for the faint hearted.

After a hard days trekking up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the city and Moreton Bay during the day. And as the evening closes in, why not book a table in the top-class restaurant at the summit to soak in the sparkling skyline of Brisbane while you eat.

Mount Coot-tha is centrally located, only 6.5 kilometres from Brisbane. Access by bus is possible but the service is infrequent so it is advised to travel by private car or organise a tour. Car park spaces at the top are limited but it is always possible to find free spots nearer the base of the mountain.