Unlock hidden treasures this winter along Redlands Coast heritage trails

There is no better time than the winter months to soak up the naturally wonderful heritage of Redlands Coast.

Intriguing tales, hidden treasures and the rich history and traditions of the Quandamooka people all await along our established network of heritage trails.

There are so many incredible historic sites and experiences to discover on Redlands Coast, you’ll need an overnight stay (at least!) to truly immerse yourself in our unique heritage and culture.

A visit to Ormiston House is a must when it comes to experiencing the unique history of Redlands Coast. Historic Ormiston House is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Queensland, built in 1860s by Capt. Louis Hope, who would become known as the Father of the Australian Sugar Industry. Plan a Sunday afternoon visit and indulge in their signature Devonshire Tea surrounded by 14 acres of beautifully restored historic gardens and grounds.

Walk off your Devonshire Tea with a glorious winter stroll along the historic Cleveland (Nandeebie/Indillie) jetty extending out from Cleveland Point where the enchanting 150 year old Cleveland Point Lighthouse still looks out to stunning Moreton Bay where it once warned sea farers from running aground on the treacherous Cleveland Point rocks.

Make sure you stop to soak up the moment and capture some memories on your mobile (or camera) – this is truly one of Queensland’s most naturally wonderful and instaworthy places.

Stop in at the Old School House Gallery to discover the best of Redlands Coast local art and creative talent. Housed across two 1800’s heritage buildings, this very special community gallery is run by local artists and has a rolling program of exhibitions and workshops from jewelry making to photography and textile art.

Just a short stroll down the road, you’ll discover the Grandview Hotel, Queensland’s oldest licensed hotel and one of the most charming and eclectic too. With its sprawling beer garden and outdoor area dotted with heritage rotundas and kiosks, the ‘GV’ as it’s affectionately known, will welcome you with a wonderfully natural array of some of the best local fare on offer. Grab coffee and cake or enjoy a heartwarming pub lunch with a glass of the region’s best wine as you take in the simply stunning views over Moreton Bay. There’s a playground for the kids too so you can enjoy an unhurried pit stop at this truly unique historic hotel.

Head to the Redland Museum to step back in time and immerse yourself in our region’s rich agricultural and coastal heritage – experience an authentic blacksmith display, learn about the farming history of Redlands Coast and browse the museum’s naturally wonderful collection of memorabilia from a bygone era.

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) is the next stop on your Redlands Coast heritage discovery experience. With it’s rich Quandamooka history and culture, intriguing maritime history and unique geography, the island’s North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum is an absolute highlight of our Redlands Coast heritage experience.

Discover the intriguing stories behind Dead Man’s Beach and the 8,500 people buried in unmarked graves in the Dunwich (Goompi) cemetery. Learn about North Stradbroke Island's maritime history with its infamous shipwrecks and experience the history and traditions of the Quandamooka people. With more than 20,000 years of aboriginal history on Quandamooka country this is a truly rich and beautiful culture to discover and embrace.

Once you’ve got your sea-legs after a visit to the museum, nothing beats walking the heritage trail when it comes to living and breathing the fascinating history of this naturally wonderful island.

Coochiemudlo (Coochie mudlo), Lamb (Ngudooroo), Macleay (Jencoomercha) and Russell (Canaipa) islands all have their own fantastic heritage trails too with lots of hidden treasures and intriguing stories to be discovered.    

Back on the mainland, the Redland Art Gallery features over 830 artworks produced by more than 220 artistsincluding early settler and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Don’t miss the gallery’s Family Sunday program for creative workshops and free special events. 

The historic villages of Victoria Point (Warrer warrer) and Wellington Point (Cullen-cullen) (where you can still see canoe trees and a bora ring from pre-settlement days), are well worth including in your heritage discovery experience too.

When the sun dips behind the Moreton Bay horizon and drenches the Redlands Coast in its famed sunset hues, it’s time to treat yourself to a fine dining experience with an intriguing historic twist. Head to the iconic Courthouse Restaurant for a cosy winter al la carte experience to remember. Set in Cleveland’s heritage precinct right on the bay with stunning water views, the restaurant is housed in a former courthouse. Dine in a jail cell as you feast on the restaurant’s exquisite seasonal cuisine from twice-cooked pork belly to homemade pecan pie. Locals and mid-week visitors can make the most of the Courthouse Restaurant’s Winter Wednesday special, every Wednesday evening until the end of August.

There is just so much to discover along our Redlands Coast heritage trails. Plan a romantic getaway or bring along the whole family to warm your winter with a wonderfully natural heritage weekend, day trip or longer stay. There’s truly something for everyone.

When you get here

Pop in to the Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre for more information and local tips.

Don’t forget to tag us at @RedlandsCoast or #RedlandsCoast when you post your Redlands Coast heritage trail highlights so we can see and share your pics!