Brisbane Farm Day Trip | Ellia’s Garden Scenic Rim

Planning a trip outside Brisbane and craving a taste of genuine country life? The Brisbane Farm Day Trip at Ellia’s Garden in the Scenic Rim offers an authentic, immersive farm experience that’s perfect for families, school groups, or anyone wanting a break from city hustle. This isn’t a staged petting zoo—it’s a real working farm with a focus on sustainability, natural environments, and farm-to-table living.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its proximity—just one hour from Brisbane—means you can escape the city without the long drive. Second, the variety of activities available, from picking seasonal produce to hay rides and boat trips, makes it a well-rounded day. Third, the potential to enjoy farm-fresh meals at the upcoming farm shop and café adds a tempting bonus.

A possible downside? The tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues, as the terrain across 150 acres involves uneven paths and outdoor exploration. Also, weather can impact activities like boat rides and hay rides, so packing accordingly is wise. This experience suits families, school groups, or anyone seeking a genuine agricultural day out amid stunning mountain scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience with real working farm operations, not just a tourist attraction.
• Close proximity to Brisbane makes it a convenient escape.
• Seasonal produce picking allows guests to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruits and vegetables.
• Scenic mountain views and dam activities add a picturesque touch.
• Activities for all ages including hay castles, farm animals, hay rides, and boat trips.
• Upcoming farm shop and café (opening March 2026) promises farm-to-table dining on-site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at Ellia’s Garden: What’s in Store?

A Genuine Farm Near Brisbane

Just an hour’s drive from Brisbane’s CBD, Ellia’s Garden offers a slice of genuine farm life. Unlike commercial petting zoos, this is a real working farm set on 150 acres at the base of the Great Dividing Range. It’s an ideal quick getaway that transports you into rural Queensland, complete with river frontage and stunning mountain backdrops.

Guests often comment on the authenticity. A reviewer mentioned how “it’s refreshing to visit a farm that truly operates as a farm, not just a staged photo opportunity.” The farm emphasizes sustainable practices and organic methods, meaning the produce and environment reflect real agricultural work.

What You Can Expect

The tour is designed as a full, immersive day — with plenty of variety to keep everyone engaged. You’ll start your morning by picking seasonal fruits and vegetables directly from the fields, an experience that appeals to kids and adults alike. Depending on the season, you might gather juicy mangoes and longans in summer or crisp brassicas in winter.

Next, you’ll get up close with farm animals—friendly, natural residents rather than performers. Many reviews note how “kids loved feeding the animals and learning about farm life.” There’s also the famous Hay Bale Castle, a creative playground where children can climb and explore while adults capture mountain views in photos.

Scenic Rides and Water Activities

Weather permitting, the farm offers hay rides across the property—an excellent way to see more of the expansive landscape—plus peaceful row boat rides on a dam surrounded by mountains. Guests find these activities relaxing and a wonderful way to experience the farm’s natural beauty firsthand.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Upcoming Farm Shop & Café

While the farm shop and café are set to open in March 2026, this addition promises to elevate the experience further. Guests can look forward to enjoying farm-to-table meals made with produce picked earlier in the day, plus drinks and treats in a setting with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the mountains.

Practicalities and Facilities

The tour runs on Sundays and Mondays, from 10 am to 4 pm, with options for weekday group bookings. Facilities include free parking, clean bathrooms, shaded outdoor areas, and wheelchair-accessible paths—though the terrain may be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

It’s open rain or shine, with the café offering shelter during rainy days. Be sure to bring hats, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the scenic moments.

Why This Farm Day Trip Is Worth It

The value here lies in the combination of authentic farm life with scenic beauty, all within a short drive from Brisbane. The activities are designed to be hands-on and engaging, allowing visitors to see and participate in real farm routines.

For families, the mix of animal encounters, outdoor activities, and scenic views makes it an ideal day out. School groups can benefit from the educational aspect, learning about sustainable farming practices firsthand. Meanwhile, couples or groups of friends will appreciate the chance to relax, enjoy fresh produce, and soak in mountain vistas.

The fact that the farm isn’t a staged attraction means fewer crowds and a more genuine experience. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing insights into farm operations and organic practices. Reviews mention how “the guides made everything so approachable and fun,” which adds a personal touch to the day.

Price and Value

While the tour’s cost isn’t explicitly listed here, the inclusion of picking your own produce, farm animal interactions, hay rides, and scenic water activities suggests a good value for a full-day, authentic experience. The upcoming farm shop and café also add to the appeal, offering a chance to enjoy fresh, farm-grown meals, further enhancing the overall value.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This farm adventure is perfect for families with kids, who thrive on hands-on activities and animal encounters. It’s also well-suited for school excursions seeking an educational outdoor experience. Nature lovers will adore the breathtaking mountain views and peaceful dam rides.

Those looking for a relaxed, authentic day outside the city will find this a perfect fit, especially if they enjoy fresh produce and rural scenery. However, travelers with mobility issues should consider the terrain, as it involves outdoor paths and uneven ground.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, Ellia’s Garden offers a genuine farm experience that combines farm-to-table pleasures, scenic outdoor activities, and engaging farm life—just a short trip from Brisbane. The farm’s emphasis on sustainability, natural environment, and real agricultural work makes it stand out among other tourist attractions.

The upcoming café and farm shop will make this a full-day outing—perfect for those who want to enjoy fresh meals right on site. Whether you’re a family looking to entertain young children, a school group eager for education, or a couple seeking scenic relaxation, this experience delivers a heartfelt taste of Queensland’s country charm.

It’s a true working farm with a friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and views that make every photo look like a postcard. The combination of activities and natural beauty makes it more than just a farm visit — it’s a wholesome day of authentic rural life.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, kids love feeding farm animals, exploring the hay castle, and riding hay bales. The farm is designed for family fun.

What activities are included? You can pick seasonal produce, feed farm animals, enjoy hay rides, and, weather permitting, row boats on the dam.

Is there food available? The farm shop and café will open in March 2026, serving farm-fresh meals made from produce grown on-site. Until then, bring your own snacks.

Are there facilities on-site? Yes, there are clean bathrooms, free parking for over 200 cars, shaded areas, and wheelchair accessible paths.

Can I visit during rainy weather? Absolutely. The farm is open rain or shine, and the café provides shelter on rainy days.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts about 6 hours, from 10 am to 4 pm, covering all activities and free time.

Is it suitable for groups? Yes, weekday group bookings are available for a minimum of 10 people.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and an appetite for fresh farm produce.

Can I buy what I pick? Yes, you can take home your seasonal harvest, or enjoy it fresh in the café once it opens.

To sum it up, this farm day trip offers more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a genuine window into farm life, packed with activities, scenic beauty, and fresh food. Perfect for families or anyone craving a laid-back rural escape close to Brisbane. With authentic experiences guided by knowledgeable staff, it’s a memorable way to connect with nature and local farming traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: