Discover South East Queensland’s historic character, diverse scenery and culinary delights with a holiday beginning in Bundamba. A small suburb near Ipswich, Bundamba is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the ‘Sunshine State’. With Brisbane less than an hour away and plenty of attractions to explore, pick up your Thrifty rental car from our Bundamba branch and let the adventure begin!
Bundamba: Heritage Sites and Natural Splendour
Bundamba is a residential suburb, just East of Ipswich, with a rich coal mining and railway history. Home to award-winning brandy and gin brand Imbibis, pop into the Distillery for a tour and tasting while in town. Using only Australian ingredients, like homegrown Lilly Pilly and lemon myrtle, Imbibis beverages are inspired by the country’s native flora for drinks that taste like ‘Queensland in a bottle’. Whether you relish a gin and tonic, or liqueurs and rum are your favourites, Imbimbis has a range for everyone, plus there’s a tonic masterclass available on-site where visitors can make their own g&t. Remember to appoint a designated driver before a tasting at Imbibis for a safe and memorable journey. With the Bremer River running through the city, the Scenic Rim region to the south and heritage buildings throughout, the Ipswich area is rich with natural and architectural beauty. With reserves and parks all around, nature lovers can discover the land on foot with a hike or stroll.
Just ten minutes from Bundumba is the Ipswich city centre. As Queensland's oldest provincial city, the streets are lined with architecturally stunning heritage-listed buildings, quaint antique stores and boutique galleries. Embrace the Victorian era during your visit to Ipswich with an outing to the Ipswich Antique Centre. Vintage lovers can step back in time here and browse rare collectables, antiques and items including ceramics, clothing and furniture. More interested in nature and wildlife? The Ipswich Nature Centre is centrally located in Queen’s Park and features a range of native flora and fauna, a theatre and a cafe for a day full of outdoor exploration. Check out what’s showing at the Walter Burley Griffin Incinerator Theatre and enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by greenery and wildlife. On the other side of the city, the Ipswich Art Gallery offers all things art and history. With Heritage, 19th and 20th Century and Modern and Contemporary Art Collections to browse, visit here to view pieces by talented local and international artists; don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from the IAG Shop on your way out.
Discover the Scenic Rim
After in-town exploration, it’s time to venture out and discover what the rest of South East Queensland offers with a scenic drive in your Thrifty rental car. The Scenic Rim region is known for its lush landscapes and picturesque vineyards, with walking tracks and wildlife experiences galore, it’s the perfect destination for adventure lovers and nature seekers. Head south to the country town of Boonah, where markets, national parks and picnic spots make for a peaceful getaway. The Boonah Country Markets are held every second and fourth Saturday of the month and are worth a visit if you’re in town. In Kalbar, about ten minutes from Boonah, visit The Emporium and Wiss Cottage to delve into history. The Emporium is a boutique homewares store, designed to evoke the feeling of shopping in an old-timey general store, while Wiss Cottage is a 130-year-old home that’s also available as accommodation.
Swap small-town charm for lush forest views with a drive to Tamborine Mountain. As one of the Scenic Rim’s major attractions, it’s the perfect place to discover South East Queensland’s picturesque hinterland. Get amongst nature here and experience the thrill of riding Australia's largest zipline at TreeTop Challenge. Challenge yourself to seven guided ziplines with heights over 70 metres high on the Canyon Flyer tour. The three-hour tour will see you soaring above the Cedar Creek canyon for an exhilarating experience you won’t forget! Aside from epic ziplines, TreeTop Challenge also offers high ropes courses for all skill levels and over 140 elements to tackle amongst 12 acres of World-Heritage Listed rainforest. Situated in Thunderbird Park, stop by the Rainforest Restaurant after a day of adventuring along the treetops for a tasty meal in the picturesque setting. Take your visit to Tamborine Mountain to the next level with a guided tour through the Glow Worm Caves, where you can see thousands of glow worms light up the cave for a spectacle like no other.
From Bundamba’s fusion of heritage sites to the natural wonders of South East Queensland, a plethora of attractions await. With a Thrifty rental car, experience the freedom of adventuring at your own pace as you take on adrenaline-fueled adventures and unique experiences amongst captivating landscapes.