Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout — Attraction in Brisbane City

Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Brisbane. Perched at 226 meters above sea level, this iconic vantage point offers sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline, the winding Brisbane River, and, on clear days, the distant Moreton Bay. Whether you’re a local seeking a peaceful retreat or a tourist eager to capture the city’s beauty, this lookout delivers an unforgettable experience.  

Breathtaking Views

The lookout provides an unobstructed, 180-degree view of Brisbane, making it a favorite spot for photographers and sightseers alike. Visitors have noted the stunning vistas, describing it as a place that offers a “sweeping view of Brisbane” . The cityscape is equally mesmerizing during the day, at sunset, and when illuminated at night. One reviewer mentioned, “Thoroughly enjoyed this trip up to Mt. Coot-tha. I went here at night and found the glittering night lights of the city very pretty” .  

Dining with a View

Adjacent to the lookout is the Summit Café, which boasts the best view of the CBD and well-known Brisbane landmarks. The café is praised for its reasonably priced offerings, especially considering the prime location. As one visitor shared, “The cafe was reasonably priced considering the location and ice cream was very well received after the walk in the heat!” .  

Recreational Opportunities

Mount Coot-Tha isn’t just about the view; it’s also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding reserve encompasses over 1,600 hectares of open eucalypt forest, rainforest gullies, creek lines, and waterfalls. It offers a variety of walking tracks (for pedestrian use only), mountain bike trails, and some horse riding trails . These trails cater to all fitness levels, making it a popular spot for hikers, joggers, and nature lovers.  

Accessibility and Amenities

Located just 7 kilometers from Brisbane’s CBD, the lookout is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those relying on public transport, a bus service connects the lookout with the nearby Brisbane Botanic Gardens. The area is well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms and seating areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.  

Final Thoughts

Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout seamlessly combines natural beauty, recreational activities, and convenient facilities. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil spot to watch the sunrise, a challenging hike through lush forests, or a delightful meal with a view, this destination has something for everyone. As many visitors have echoed, it’s an attraction worth going to, offering a unique perspective of Brisbane that shouldn’t...

We are locals and visit Mount Coot-tha Lookout at least 6 times a year. We went for lunch on Saturday afternoon. The temporary toilets both male and female were dirty. (The toilets were dirty and the floors were wet.) While looking for a table on the deck, I stepped in a dog water bowl and almost fell over. This left my one trainer and pant leg completely drenched. Fortunately I had managed to catch myself falling and didn't face- plant. There was no sign up saying that there is a dog water bowl on the floor and the tables were very densely packed,making it difficult to navigate. Once we found a table, it was dirty with food residue. We ordered our food via the QR code and discovered an almost $13 weekend surcharge. On top of the surcharge, the App asked us to tip the waiter. This is VERY unAustralian. We don't tip in Australia, especially since we had no waiter. The kid's cheeseburger which cost $16 was great and a good portion, but was similar to the adult cheeseburger which cost $28. This made my husband remark that he would just order a kid's cheeseburger next time. The kid's chicken nuggets was good and as expected. I had the 200gram Angus steak with mushroom sauce, as I wanted a meal that had a bit of salad. The portion size was good, the salad had a great selection of salad goodies, but no dressing. I didn't end up eating all of the salad as eating iceberg and radish by itself is pretty dry. The steak tasted like vinegar, which may have been used to tenderise it. The chips were great. This meal cost $32 and left me disappointed. I would have had a better meal at a local RSL club or Brother's League. The meal options were limited. For instance their pan-fried calamari cost $23 and doesn't come with salad or chips. There is no option to add on a side salad or a side of chips. One can order a bowl of chips, but no side of anything. The drink options for kids were disappointing- no fruit juice or more specifically apple juice. It was all fizzy drinks. All drinks start at $6 and are not served with a glass, yet one is asked to tip the 'waiter'. The bill for 2 kids meals and 2 adults meal with one Coke Zero and weekend surcharge came to $108. Mount Coot-tha has the potential to be great, but needs to remember that although it is a tourist attraction, that they are still in Australia. No, we do not want to tip a QR app for taking out order or pay a weekend surcharge. Yes, we do want a clean table with enough cutlery and napkins and having clean toilets would...

Mount Coot-Tha offers a breathtaking canvas for photographers seeking a panoramic view of Brisbane City. The elevated vantage point provides a superb aerial perspective, allowing photographers to capture the cityscape in all its glory. The expansive skyline, illuminated by city lights, becomes a mesmerizing tapestry that unfolds beneath the lens.

One of the notable features for photographers is the abundance of parking spaces available, ensuring a hassle-free experience. This convenience allows enthusiasts to focus on their craft without worrying about logistics. Additionally, the presence of a wheelchair-friendly option ensures accessibility for all, catering to a diverse range of photographers.

The inclusion of a well-equipped café enhances the overall experience, providing a place to unwind and discuss photography endeavors. The kid-friendly environment makes Mount Coot-Tha a family-friendly destination, allowing photographers to share their passion with loved ones. The park's atmosphere fosters a sense of community and enjoyment, creating a conducive environment for capturing memorable moments.

The highlight, undoubtedly, is the incredible view of Brisbane City. The sprawling metropolis sprawls out beneath, offering a myriad of compositions for photographers to explore. Whether capturing the hustle and bustle of daily life or the tranquility of the city lights at night, Mount Coot-Tha serves as a versatile playground for creative expression.

Having personally shot the New Year's Eve fireworks from this vantage point, I can attest to the magic of the experience. The resulting photos are nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the vibrant explosions of color against the city backdrop. Mount Coot-Tha emerges as a prime location for capturing celebratory events and creating lasting memories through the lens.

In summary, Mount Coot-Tha stands as a photography haven with its awe-inspiring aerial views, ample parking, family-friendly amenities, and the added bonus of capturing spectacular events like New Year's Eve fireworks. It's a must-visit destination for photographers seeking to immortalize Brisbane City's beauty in...