One of Brisbane’s most famous picnic spots, Jollys Lookout in D’Aguilar National Park is known for its panoramic views over Enoggera Forest Reserve out toward the city, further up to the Glasshouse Mountains and even Moreton Bay. The lookout is named after Brisbane’s first mayor, William Jolly, who thought the sizable, rolling mountain ridge reserve was the perfect place for a picnic and it seems today many are still in agreement with him.
Set among the backdrop of the lush, dense rainforest and eucalypt forest of Mount Nebo, Jollys Lookout is a sweeping opening featuring numerous barbeques, sheltered and exposed picnic tables as well as a well-maintained toilet block with a baby change room.
The lookout is wheelchair accessible and offers a wonderful way to enjoy a lazy afternoon picnic with the family, friends or a loved one. Visiting at sunrise or sunset is sure to provide breath-taking views and a great opportunity for that spectacular snapshot you’ve been dying to post on Instagram.
Weave your way through a trail of towering trees where native birds sing and local wildlife skit across the walking track. The Thylogale Walking Track is fairly level, passing through rainforest and crossing a 4WD dirt road before continuing to the Boombana Picnic Area. If you begin this walk at the Jollys Lookout end, it will take approximately 2 hours to walk the 8km return track. There is an additional 1.5km loop track called Pitta Circuit branching off from the Boombana Picnic Area that has child-friendly signs with information about the local flora and fauna that call the forest their home.
After admiring a romantic sunset and it’s time to head home, why not stop by Mercure Clear Mountain Lodge for a nice decadent dinner for 2 and an overnight stay?
Looking for something more family friendly? Eatons Hill Hotel is just down the way and features a beautiful family restaurant and a massive indoor playground for the little ones!
The villages of Mount Glorious and Mount Nebo, in the southern section of the D’Aguilar Range, are home to many native plants, animals and birds. A great place to relax and unwind from the pressures of life, the D’Aguilar National Park is reputedly the largest tract of bushland near an Australian state capital and is the closest rainforest to the city. By visiting Thylogale Walking Track or Jolly’s Lookout, you’ll understand just how special D’Aguilar National Park is and why it is referred to as a nature haven.
The two mountains are famous for their many bushwalks, most of which are suitable for people of varying fitness levels. As one of the best bushwalking destinations north of Brisbane, Mount Glorious has seven family-friendly tracks that feature boardwalks to safely traverse tricky terrain. Likewise, Mount Nebo offers many tracks that can introduce you to eucalypt and rainforest wonderland of D’Aguilar.
Thanks to a partnership between Google and Queensland National Parks you can now explore Jollys Lookout virtually before you embark on the physical hike. Take a look virtual tour here.
From the bar serving cold brews to the hotel restaurant with delicious eats, the Samford Hotel in Moreton Bay Region is a favourite pub near Brisbane for locals and tourists alike.
Whether travelling for business or pleasure, Mercure Clear Mountain Lodge set amidst natural surrounds is your ideal north Brisbane accommodation retreat from the city, just 40 minutes north of Brisbane CBD.
This pet-friendly café opposite John Scott Park is quickly establishing itself as a popular meeting place in the Moreton Bay Region. The Long Yard Larder Samford café’s friendly customer service and warm wood-panelled surrounds, pared back décor and minimalist vibes make for a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.
Hosted by St Paul’s Anglican Church this 50-stall market is a whimsical, local institution. With a mountain range backdrop, the enticing smell of fresh baking and the charm of pretty church grounds, Samford Valley is an idyllic Saturday morning outing.
If you’re looking for things to do in Samford and surrounding areas then visit Samford Visitor Information Centre.