I had been craving an escape to nature, and there’s nowhere quite like the Gold Coast when it comes to raw beauty and wildlife. I’d heard that Mount Tamborine, with its cool, lush rainforests and abundant birdlife, was an oasis just a short drive from the city. After a quick search online for “Mt Tamborine accommodation,” I found the perfect lodge nestled among the trees, offering an immersive, quiet retreat. Without hesitation, I booked it and eagerly packed my bags, ready for a weekend of discovery and, hopefully, sightings of rare and beautiful birds.
After checking in, I was immediately charmed by the peaceful surroundings. The lodge was perfect—cozy yet rustic, and surrounded by greenery as far as the eye could see. I couldn’t wait to explore, so I dropped off my bags, grabbed my binoculars and field guide, and set off to see what I could find.
The trails around Mount Tamborine were breathtaking, winding through a mix of towering trees, dense ferns, and glistening streams. The air was filled with the calls of birds I had never heard before. As I wandered deeper into the forest, I spotted my first exciting find—a pair of Albert’s lyrebirds, known for their intricate songs and elaborate tail feathers. Watching these rare birds, I felt a thrill of accomplishment and fascination. It’s one thing to see them in a guidebook, but it’s entirely different to watch them up close, their feathers catching the sunlight in flashes of color and movement.
As I continued my trek, I came across a small group of paradise riflebirds, another rare species with shimmering blue-black plumage. Their iridescent feathers stood out like tiny gems against the greenery, and I was mesmerized by their beauty. I also had the good fortune of spotting a regent bowerbird—a bright yellow and black masterpiece of nature. The males build elaborate “bowers” to attract mates, decorating them with all sorts of treasures they find. Seeing this intricate work of nature up close made me appreciate the complex lives of these birds.
The wildlife wasn’t limited to birds, either. At dusk, I stumbled upon a group of pademelons, small marsupials that looked a bit like miniature kangaroos, hopping around quietly in the underbrush. Their gentle movements and curious gazes gave the forest an enchanting, almost magical feel. Later, as the night set in, I heard the distinctive calls of nocturnal animals, reminding me that I was sharing this space with creatures of all shapes and sizes.
Each encounter with these rare animals felt like a gift, a fleeting moment to savor. I took photos, made notes, and even tried to sketch some of what I saw, hoping to hold onto the memories long after I’d left. This weekend at Mount Tamborine became more than just a vacation; it was a deeply refreshing escape from the busyness of everyday life.
As I packed up to leave, I knew that this was a place I’d want to return to, again and again, to find new trails, new creatures, and new stories to tell. The experience left me feeling grateful, a little more connected to nature, and profoundly rejuvenated. Mount Tamborine had given me an unforgettable weekend, full of rare birds and beautiful wildlife that I’d remember for a lifetime.
