Chances are that if you grew up on the south side – you will grow old on the south side. Why is it that we become so complacent with the cities we live in, when there are so many attractions that haven’t been experienced? What’s stopping us from breaking up the weekend routine? Or why is it that many of us have been to London but not beautiful Moreton Bay Island? Begin to discover the Brisbane you never knew existed and you might be pleasantly surprised. To the North, Dayboro and Samford provide a little taste of country life only 30 minutes drive from the city. To the south, before reaching the Gold Coast, Daisy Hill offers reputable mountain-bike trails for the beginner through to the advanced cyclist. To the west, neighboring historical city Ipswich is the gateway to the Scenic Rim and a number of South-East Queensland wineries and it has some of the best undiscovered op-shops near Brisbane. And to the east, Brisbane’s coastal communities, which front onto beautiful Moreton Bay, remain relatively undiscovered by city dwellers. One of these is Cleveland: a modern seaside community with a taste of Brisbane’s historic past. To reach Cleveland, drive along Old Cleveland Road and follow the signs. Commonly known as the gateway to North Stradbroke Island, Cleveland is a destination in its own right. One of its attractions is the Lighthouse Restaurant (pictured above), Cafe, Bar and Take Away located at the tip of Cleveland Point. This is one of Brisbane’s most picturesque dining destinations and is reminiscent of eateries on the Balearic Islands that front onto the Mediterranean Sea. Cleveland’s Lighthouse Restaurant is close to Brisbane and boasts panoramic views of North Stradbroke Island and an outside dining area that literally sits atop of the water. Serving fresh local seafood platters and succulent steaks, as well as coffee and cake, Lighthouse Restaurant is a great place to show friends a local’s secret you’ve heard word of. What’s your favourite Brisbane escape?
