Its all about the journey, not the destination....
The start of the journey to Best of All Lookout
Best of All Lookout must be the most coy, shy, mysterious and selective Lookout in the country. I have been five times over the years and only once has its astonishing far-reaching views ever been revealed to me. Usually shrouded in mist and clouds, the Lookout is often a curtain of pure white, even while the rest of Springbrook may be clear and sunny.
Located at highest lookout point on
Springbrook Plateau, Best of All Lookout will simply not be taken for granted. She may be free, but she is certainly isn't easy. A lucky few, along with those who are persistent enough to keep returning are occasionally rewarded with sweeping views that stretch from the blue of Coolangatta right across the mountains through to New South Wales, Byron Bay and Mount Warning. It is almost as if one is looking at the view from the window of an airplane as you are that high up.
On an absolutely crystal clear day with no mist, haze or cloud, expect to be standing at the Lookout for quite a while as there is so much to see from this one unique spot. If you are privileged enough to be one of the 'Chosen Ones', soak up the view and make every second count, because the clouds can slide back in quicker than you can get out your camera.
Just don't ever make the mistake of avoiding this place on an overcast day, because I'll let you in on a little secret; the true highlight of Best of All Lookout is actually the journey. The 700 metre return walk through the ancient Antarctic Beech Forest draped in mist is truly breathtaking. Take your time to stop and look around every thirty seconds and you will see something new.
Antarctic Beech Trees
This dreamy forest held us captive as we pondered its plethora of twisted vines and endless green moss waiting for its mysteries to be unraveled. Looking deep into the forest at the slivers of light melting through the mist to reveal droplets of sparkling water on emerald leaves, we were transported to an ancient mystical place in another time and another world.
Twisted vines creeping around in the mist
In the worst conditions of clouds and mist and rain, this journey is still well worth the trip.
Best of All Lookout is located in a World Heritage Area filled with rainforest and abundant birdlife. The 350 metre journey to the Lookout is located at the top end of Repeater Station Road in Springbrook (Gold Coast Hinterland). Once is just not enough. Changing weather conditions cause the moods of the rainforest to shift, revealing more of itself at every turn.
