Play your way

The winding road threads through dense rainforest, where lyrebird calls drift through the trees. Once you've made it through the canopy-covered hairpin turns, pull into Moonacres Kitchen in Robertson for a locally sourced lunch.

Join Kangaroo Valley Safaris for a downstream paddle on calm water to spot wombats grazing on the banks and water dragons sunning themselves on river rocks.

At this eco-luxe lodge, you'll wake up to birds, fall asleep to the sounds of the eucalyptus forest, and let the pace drop right off.

Arriving for sunrise offers rare solitude as mist lifts from the 81-metre drop. Explore the West Rim Track for secluded vantage points, then detour to Belmore Falls.

A short trail leads to a natural amphitheatre where thousands of tiny glow worms transform the sandstone walls into a sparkling galaxy – a fitting end to a journey defined by quiet immersion.

This opening leg brings you into the Southern Highlands, perfect for exploring the Bradman Museum precinct or enjoying a cold-climate wine tasting at Centennial Vineyards.

It's just a 10-minute trip to the Bendooley Estate Book Barn, where you can snack on seasonal flavours in a rustic space filled with thousands (yes, thousands) of rare books.

Head to Paste Australia, where ancient recipes have been re-imagined with fresh Australian ingredients to deliver the bold Thai flavours that earned the restaurant a prestigious SMH Chef's Hat.

Your destination? Mt Hay Retreat, a luxe lodge offering 360-degree views and total privacy. Wake up and head into Berry to enjoy local morning sourdough and boutique shopping.

Follow the scenic Grand Pacific Drive across Sea Cliff Bridge, an engineering marvel that curves over the ocean to offer panoramic views on a smooth glide back to the city.

As the suburban sprawl dissolves, aim for the Arthurs Seat summit, where the road spirals upwards and you can hop out to soar above the treetops on the Arthurs Seat Eagle.

This labyrinth of orchard lanes and cellar doors is perfect for impulsive stops at Ten Minutes by Tractor or the sculpture-filled Pt. Leo Estate to sample world-class, cool-climate wines.

Follow the trail to the basalt cliffs of Bushrangers Bay, stopping at the lighthouse for a glimpse of the historic red-domed tower. This raw, jagged stretch feels worlds away from the inland vineyards.

Trade the salt spray for this luxurious, architecturally stunning retreat and its spa. Step inside to unwind in the tranquil hammam or reset with a massage after your coastal walk.

As stars emerge, follow winding paths tracking the dark silhouette of Pyramid Rock – keeping the freedom to ditch the plan the moment a promising side track calls your name.

First stop: Springbrook National Park, where the road climbs towards the misty Purling Brook Falls. Swim in nearby natural pools or linger at the Natural Bridge to watch glow worms illuminate the cave walls.

The long-peeling waves are perfect for a group session at Currumbin Alley Surf School – a quintessential Queensland spot. For a faster pace, the nearby Burleigh Heads point break offers world-class surf energy.

Check into the sustainable luxury of Crystalbrook Byron. Surrounded by 45 acres of rainforest, the resort gives you plenty of choices, from boardwalk trails through the trees to a heated infinity pool.

Witness the dramatic 100-metre drop at first light, then explore the surrounding Nightcap National Park waterholes. Finish the leg by steering through Tweed Valley for glimpses of Wollumbin's peak rising from the caldera.

Pull into Miami Marketta for a sunset session. This laneway precinct is a vibrant hub of street food and live music – the perfect place to trade stories before cruising back to Brisbane.