5‑Day Road Trip from Brisbane to Glen Innes (May 5 – May 9, 2026)

Day 1: Brisbane → Gold Coast → Mount Tamborine

Morning: Depart Brisbane early and cruise along the Pacific Motorway to the Gold Coast Skyline, where you can snap panoramic photos of the coastline before heading inland.

Afternoon: Arrive at Mount Tamborine Scenic Walk and wander the rainforest trails, stopping at the stunning Rainforest Skywalk for elevated views of the valleys.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner in the quaint village of Mount Tamborine, then settle into a local boutique B&B for a restful night.

Day 2: Mount Tamborine → Byron Bay → Coffs Harbour

Morning: Drive north to Byron Bay Lighthouse, climb to the top for sweeping ocean vistas and watch the early‑morning surf.

Afternoon: Continue to the Crystal Castle & Gardens for a quick exploration of the glittering quartz displays and tranquil gardens.

Evening: Arrive in Coffs Harbour, check into your accommodation, and dine at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the harbor.

Day 3: Coffs Harbour → Glen Innes (Arrival)

Morning: Visit the iconic Big Banana for a fun photo op and a quick snack before hitting the road.

Afternoon: Stop at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden for a leisurely walk among native flora and a picnic lunch.

Evening: Arrive in Glen Innes, check into a country inn, and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local produce.

Day 4: Glen Innes Exploration

Morning: Explore the Glen Innes Celtic Museum, discovering the town’s rich Scottish heritage through artifacts and interactive displays.

Afternoon: Take the self‑guided Glen Innes Heritage Walk, which links historic buildings, the historic railway station, and the charming main street.

Evening: Relax by the Dumaresq River Picnic Area, where you can watch the sunset and perhaps try a short riverside walk.

Day 5: Glen Innes → Armidale → Brisbane (Return)

Morning: Depart Glen Innes and head to Armidale Heritage Centre to view regional art and historical exhibits.

Afternoon: Stroll through the New England Regional Gallery and enjoy a light lunch in the town’s historic precinct.

Evening: Continue the drive back to Brisbane, arriving late evening and reflecting on a memorable journey.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Gold Coast Skyline – 1 hr – $0 (free)
• Mount Tamborine Scenic Walk – 2 hrs – $0 (free)
• Byron Bay Lighthouse – 1.5 hrs – $5 (entry)
• Crystal Castle & Gardens – 1 hr – $15 (admission)
• Big Banana – 1 hr – $10 (activities)
• North Coast Regional Botanic Garden – 1.5 hrs – $0 (free)
• Glen Innes Celtic Museum – 2 hrs – $12 (admission)
• Glen Innes Heritage Walk – 2 hrs – $0 (free)
• Dumaresq River Picnic Area – 1 hr – $0 (free)
• Armidale Heritage Centre – 1 hr – $8 (admission)
• New England Regional Gallery – 1 hr – $7 (admission)
• Accommodation (5 nights) – – $650 (average $130/night)
• Fuel (approx. 1,300 km) – – $180
• Meals (5 days) – – $250

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a day in the Scenic Rim to explore the Lamington National Park rainforests or extend your stay in Glen Innes to attend a local music session at the Celtic Centre. To shorten the trip, you could skip the Byron Bay detour and head straight from Mount Tamborine to Coffs Harbour, reducing travel time while still enjoying the main highlights.