The 6 Most Beautiful Queensland Neighbourhoods for a Tree Change

Pack your bags and head for the country. These tree change destinations are luring Queenslanders for their bucolic lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle.

Stanthorpe

Two and a half hours from Brisbane, the town of Stanthorpe has long been desired by the burgeoning tree-changer. Rich with epicurean delights, the region is home to some 50 vineyards, including many less-known varietals such as Fiano, Montepulciano and Saperavi. There are popular brunch spots, gourmet delis and artisan bakeries brimming with all things delicious. Work it off exploring the dramatic landscapes of Girraween National Park, with its unique rock formations and breathtaking rugged beauty. Stanthorpe has become a popular choice among young families looking to put down roots, thanks to its charming, spacious homes paired with excellent community amenities.

Kuranda

The historic mountain village of Kuranda is a hub for arts, history and culture. Bounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest, there are myriad walking tracks through ancient canopy and along the banks of the Baron River. It encourages a slower pace of life, with abundant opportunities to get back to nature. In Kuranda village you’ll find cafes, galleries and markets brimming with handmade crafts and tropical delicacies. Many of Kuranda’s acreage properties have creeks in the backyard, and an abundance of rainforest wildlife. It also has the city of Cairns just 30 minutes away, and stunning beach destinations such as Palm Cove and Port Douglas close by. 

Eumundi

Famed for its artisan markets (the largest of its kind in Australia), the hinterland village of Eumundi boasts an energetic and youthful community just 25 minutes’ drive inland from Noosa. Rolling green land is punctuated by heritage-listed fig trees and historical buildings, now converted into galleries and boutiques. The town also offers a flourishing food scene, with trendy eateries such as The Bungalow and Humdrum Espresso, along with beers straight from the brewery at The Imperial Hotel. Homes here offer peace, privacy and spacious proportions, many capturing impressive views over the hinterland.

Toowoomba

In the Darling Downs region, Toowoomba is Queensland’s largest inland city, making it the perfect spot for those wanting to dip their toes in county life. From live music at the Empire Theatre to rotating exhibits at Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery, street art trails and architectural gems along Russell Street, culture vultures will be spoilt for choice. The city sits roughly two hours’ west of Brisbane, and boasts a rich history dating back to the 1860s. Today it’s home to a thriving food scene, boutique wineries and vintage finds aplenty. There’s pretty Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park, a golf club and Darling Downs Zoo, while locals can hike the trails of Table Top Mountain, taking in spectacular views across the Lockyer Valley.

Tamborine Mountain

Nestled in the lush Gold Coast Hinterland, Tamborine Mountain provides a serene, leafy lifestyle and great sense of community. It’s known for its excellent schools, making it sought-out by young families looking to move from the city. There are incredible parks and nature trails through palm groves, eucalypt woodlands and waterfalls, and scenic Botanic Gardens where residents can enjoy a picnic beside the lake. Wineries, art galleries and a host of monthly markets and events add to the vibrant local culture. Many of the mountain’s homesteads and cottages allow residents to fully embrace country life with rainforest creeks and ponds, veggie gardens and breathtaking views.

Montville

In Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Hinterland, the attractive village of Montville has creativity at its heart, with galleries and pottery studios fostering a dynamic arts scene. Those wanting to reconnect with nature will find Kondalilla National Park five minutes up the road, with meandering walking trails to rock pools, lookouts and plunging waterfalls. Sample the region’s locally grown produce at the monthly markets, or dine at lauded wineries and restaurants, including hatted The Long Apron and paddock-to-plate Flame Hill Vineyard. You can take a dip or kayak on the calm waters of Baroon Pocket Dam, or try your luck throwing in a line. Montville offers a relaxing lifestyle, while being just 30 minutes from the Maroochydore city centre.