Brisbane does a quite few things undeniably well, its views and lookouts. With high hills and vantage points close to the city you are assured of getting some of the best panoramas of Brisbane, the River and surrounding suburbs and in most cases, they are an easy drive with plenty of parking and one of the best things the Views are FREE.
Here’s another thought for future reference, most people head to Southbank and the near CBD for the several fireworks displays that are held in Brisbane throughout the year, you could also consider one of these lookouts as an alternative destination, but I bet you would have to be there early before all the locals get the best vantage places.
The car is packed with plenty of water (at the time of my day trip it was in the middle of a hot Queensland summer) and picnic goodies for the day as I headed off in search of some secret locations and not as well known spots on the Northside of Brisbane. Having already visited some of the better known Lookouts in Brisbane’s South (click here for all the Blog Info) and Lookouts Brisbane’s Southside ( click here for all the Blog info) a day trip adventure to Brisbane’s Northside was on the cards.
Just have a look at the first place that I found, only 2.4km from Brisbane’s CBD nestled high on the hill in Newfarm, this is the place Location!! Location!! Location!! with stunning views over the Brisbane River and City. Where is this impressive place, my first discovery for the day – Wilson Outlook Reserve.
Wilson Outlook Reserve (cnr Bowen Terrace & Moray Street, New Farm)
Tucked away in New farm just off bustling Brunswick Street is a little piece of green space probably rarely visited except by those in the know yet it offers some of the most stunning views of the City, River and Kangaroo Point.
With the Story Bridge in the background Wilson Outlook Reserve lookout is perched high on the New Farm Cliffs giving you unparalleled views of the City Skyline both day and night. Although this is a small park, there are a few tables and benches scattered amongst the trees but far enough apart to give you your own personal space to set up your BYO goodies or throw the picnic blanket on the ground. The choice is yours but no matter which way you go, you’ll still have those unsurpassed views in the background.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Admission: Free
- Transport: Public Transport is available. Translink (click here) for all options and time tables.
- Taking the car: Free On street parking available.
- Picnic Facilities: Tables and benches, situated amongst shady trees.
- Café: No. Wilsons Lookout is situated very close to New Farm where there are plenty of pubs, café’s and take-away’s.
- Toilets: None available.
- Accessibility: Easy walking around the Lookout.
Bartley’s Hill Lookout (Massey Street, Ascot)
Another great thing about Brisbane is you don’t have to travel a long way to discover more breath taking views tucked away in the suburbs. Bartley’s Hill Lookout (6.4km from the Brisbane CBD) situated on one of the highest points in the area in the very ritzy suburb of Ascot is not as well-known as some of the others but it sure does pack a punch with some stunning views. Take a break to admire the views, there are plenty of seats and car parking in the adjacent car park. It’s worth the drive just to check out all the beautiful homes that you’ll see as you wander the back roads of Ascot.
Eildon Hill Reservoir – Lookout (Hawdon Street, Windsor)
Winding my way along Constitution Road through the residential streets of Windsor, an inner-city suburb of Brisbane approximately 4km for the CBD, I’ve discovered another not as well – known landmark, Eildon Hill Reservoir. A large sign at the impressive gateway to the Reservoir announces that we have arrived. Drive to the top (it’s a fairly steep road) or take a leisurely stroll (about 10 minutes to walk up) stopping to admire the local flora and fauna along the way and you will be greeted with a big old concrete reservoir with some of the most spectacular vistas in the area.
It’s not until you’re there that you realize just how high it really is with 360-degree views to the CBD, across to Cunningham’s Gap, the D’Aigular Ranges, the Glass House Mountains and west to Mt Coot-tha. Check out the sign at the entrance before you head to the top it’ll tell you the whole story of the reservoir. You will not be disappointed.
If you are looking at putting a day trip together so you too can explore and discover your own lesser known lookouts, I have put this itenary together. Each lookout has different perspectives so you can appreciate the views North, South, East and West.
Starting from the Brisbane CBD, the first stop:
1/ Eildon Hill Reservoir-Lookout (Hawdon Street, Windsor)
2/ Bartley’s Hill Lookout (Massey Street, Ascot)
3/ Wilson Outlook Reserve (cnr Bowen Terrace & Moray Street, New Farm)
Finishing at Wilsons Outlook Reserve it’s then only a short drive to New Farm Park, where there are picnic areas and BBQ’s under shady trees enabling you to catch the beautiful cool breezes that blow in from the Brisbane River, wide open spaces amongst the gardens to spread out your picnic blanket and a children’s playground for the kids that has to be seen to be believed.
New Farm Park (click here for extra info) is also the starting point of another enticing day trip full of adventure, river trips, fun and how could I forget some of the best cafes, boutique breweries and coffee shops that can be had. Stay tuned with more on this Big Adventure to come.
Safe Travels
ROAD TRIP’N
ROAD TRIP'N 