Mount Coot-tha & Botanic Gardens

Located just 7–8 kilometres west of Brisbane City, Mount Coot-tha is one of Brisbane’s most recognisable natural landmarks.

Rising 287 metres above sea level, Mount Coot-tha is surrounded by more than 1,500 hectares of forest, with eucalypt woodland, rainforest gullies and walking tracks extending towards D’Aguilar National Park. From the summit lookout, you can enjoy wide views across Brisbane and the surrounding landscape.

Just below the mountain, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha offers a peaceful contrast to the lookout. The gardens feature a wide variety of tropical and subtropical plants, open spaces and walking paths, making it a pleasant place to slow down and explore Brisbane’s natural side.

Together, Mount Coot-tha and the Botanic Gardens offer an easy combination of Brisbane city views and nature, just a short drive from the city centre.

Getting Around Mount Coot-tha & Gardens

From Brisbane City, Mount Coot-tha and the Botanic Gardens are around 20 minutes by car, making them an easy addition to a Brisbane itinerary.

By public transport, the journey takes around 1 hour 10 minutes, including walking and at least one transfer. For visitors who want to visit both the lookout and the gardens, travelling by car can be a more convenient option.

Travel Tip

Bring a bottle of water if you plan to explore the gardens on foot. If you are planning to spend a few hours in the area, bringing your own lunch or snacks is a great option. You can enjoy a relaxed picnic while taking a break from sightseeing.

Day Trip from Mount Coot-tha

Mount Coot-tha and the Botanic Gardens can easily be combined with a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for a relaxed half-day experience.

Located less than 20 minutes by car from Mount Coot-tha, Lone Pine is one of Brisbane’s best-known wildlife attractions, where you can see koalas, kangaroos and other Australian native animals.