Autumn is perfect hiking weather! But, what makes a day of hiking even better? A great pitstop afterwards to reward your efforts! Here are some perfect combos that make a great day trip from Ketchup’s Bank Glamping.

Mount French and the Dugandan ‘Dugie’ Hotel

This one is the closest to Ketchup’s and the shortest walk too. Perfect if you’rtge up for more tasting and less treking. Turn off to Mount French at the Dugie and enjoy the 10min forrest drive up the hill. From the car park area there are two easy walks. The North Cliff Track (720m return) takes you to an amazing lookout with views over the Fassifern Valley. The other walk which is also less than a kilometre is a circuit around the top of the peak which travels through the changing landscape and vegetation. Once you’ve taken in nature for a little while, head back to the Dugie, grab a table under the shady trees and admire the views of Mt French with a cold drink and a good ol’ pub meal. Finish your day with a leisurely 20min drive back to your accomodation to light the campfire for sunset.

Dugandan Hotes and the Mount French Lookout from the North Cliff Track

Mount Edwards and the Dam Cafe Lake Moogerah

Lake Moogerah is a perfect backdrop for a trek and tasty treat. The moderate walk up Mount Edwards starts from the Dam Wall and is 6.5km return. Nice views of the dam on the way up and views out towards Brisbane from the top. After that, you’ll definitely be ready for a comfy, welcoming place to sit down for a tasty treat and the Dam Cafe is your spot! Take a load off here, or grab some takeaway and sit on the grassy hills in Moogerah park.

Moogerah Dam Wall where Mt Edwards track starts and the Dam Cafe alfresco area.

Mount Greville and the Scenic Rim Brewery

This is another great option in the Moogerah area and if you are a more experienced hiker, Mount Greville is worth the effort for the absolutely magnificent views of Lake Moogerah. Plan ahead and take supplies for this half day trek. Aussie Bushwalking offer some clear instructions of how to follow the Waterfall Gorge track up and the Palm Gorge track on the way down. If you’ve conquered this one, you deserve a beer! So it is a welcome suprise when you are on your way back to Ketchup’s Bank Glamping through Mount Alford, to see the iconic Scenic Rim Brewery! Craft beer, really delicious Dutch inspired food, local produce shop and a great modern atmosphere!

Mount Greville and the Scenic Rim Brewery

The Mt Barney National Park Lower Portals and Rathlogan Shed Cafe

Last, but not least, the Lower Portals is a bucket list walk. 3hrs return with the most magnificent canyon like swimming hole as your destination. And just before the turn off for Lower Portals road you’ll find the Shed Cafe. A super cute (substantial!) gift shop and cafe that is well worth a stop!

The Lower Portals Swimming Hole and the Rathlogan Shed Cafe

The Scenic Rim is dotted with hidden suprises and and natural wonders. Ketchup’s Bank Glamping is a perfect central base with all of these trek and taste combos within a 30-40 minute drive.