Mount Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens

Mount Coot-Tha is home to not only a marvellous lookout but also the greatest subtropical botanical gardens of Brisbane. Brisbane Botanic Gardens are 52 hectars wide and have been established 7km away from Brisbane River after City Botanic Gardens have been damaged by flood numerous times. 27 hectars of the gardens are dedicated to 'Australian Plant Communities' where native Australian plants are displayed. Amazing exotic plants can be seen in the rest. Some of the species are under conservation since they are about to become extinct.

Do you like Bonsais? Around 100 species are waiting for you at Bonsai House. Right beside Bonsai House, Japanese Garden is located. Cactus House and Fern House are some of the other interesting attractions in the gardens. And the rainforests... Brisbane Botanic Gardens are proud of their two splendid rainforests. An Australian and an exotic one with tropical trees and plants from all over the world. For more tropical plants, the best address to visit is Tropical Display Dome. In addition to its elegant architecture, it gets a lot of attention with its exotic plants that normally can not grow in Brisbane.

By the way, how often does one have the chance to visit a planetarium inside a botanic garden? Brisbane Botanic Gardens contain Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium which gives the chance to make a journey up to as far as mankind can see in the universe. An extraordinary experience! It is recommended to check the opening and closing times of the planetarium to not to miss it!

Hungry? There are plenty of picnic areas in the gardens. Relaxing, enjoying the nature and home-made food is definitely the best part of the trip. A kiosk is also available if you haven't brought your own.

If you would like to get more information about the gardens and the flora, free guided tours are available that take around an hour. If you miss the one at 11am, you have a second chance at 1pm (except sundays and public holidays). The meeting point is the information centre.