Pack the car – here’s our ultimate guide to Southern Queensland Country
It was John Denver that sang “country roads, take me home”, but sometimes we need to take the country roads less travelled to find somewhere new – and exciting. Thankfully, we’ve done the hard yakka for you and compiled some of our favourite places to venture in Southern Queensland Country, from Toowoomba to the Bunya Mountains in the Western Downs and Stanthorpe. Whether you’re seeking a new adventure, hungry for a feast, looking for somewhere to rest your weary head or just want to make some great travelling memories, we’ve got you covered. Now, all you have to do is apply for some annual leave and keep reading …
Where to eat and drink
Southern Queensland Country is brimming with delicious eats, taste bud-temping treats and tantalising tipples, so let us regale you with a few of our top picks that are sure to be memorable feasts. Found atop a majestic mountain in the Great Dividing Range is where you’ll come across The Peak at Spicers Peak Lodge, which offers a quite literally elevated epicurean experience that is sure to have your senses singing. Another must-visit spot is Myrtille European Bistro, a restaurant and speakeasy-style bar in Crows Nest that offers a mouth-watering European-inspired menu, with produce sourced from local Queensland farms. Sweet tooths driving around Stanthorpe can stop in at Sutton’s Juice Factory Cidery & Cafe, located diagonally opposite The Big Apple (another bucket list site!). Here, you can sample ciders, handcrafted juices and Sutton’s iconic apple pie – made entirely by hand, with real butter pastry and locally grown apples. Those looking to wet their whistle with some cracking Queensland wine can visit Hidden Creek Winery, an award-winning winery, cellar door and vineyard situated in the rugged hills of Queensland’s Granite Belt. You can stop in for on Saturdays and Sundays for tastings, platters and picnic baskets that can be enjoyed by the waterside. If you love a farmers’ market, make sure to browse the Mulgowie, Laidley, Murphy’s Creek or Plainland Country Markets over the weekend. You can fill your esky with fresh fruit and veggies, eggs and homemade jams so you can continue making Southern Queensland Country moments at home.
Where to stay
There are plenty of top-notch accommodation spots sprinkled throughout Southern Queensland Country, so it all depends on what town you’re planning to call home for the night. Those looking to stop in at Warwick can stay at the Abbey Boutique Hotel, an adults-only heritage-listed hotel that’s set inside a historic Victorian-style sandstone building. Stanthorpe visitors can plop down their luggage at Diamondvale Cottages, a tranquil set of country cottages where you can enjoy starlit evenings and revel in absolute tranquility. For unmatched hospitality, check in to Stanthorpe’s Queenslander-style B&B, Loggers Rest Bed and Breakfast, a laidback locale that exudes old-world charm (there are plenty of fireplaces waiting to warm your feet), which is just a short stroll to local restaurants, shops, and bars. Those looking to not wander far from their wine tasting can stay at Ridgemill Estate Cabins, a cosy accommodation destination nestled amongst the vines at Ridgemill Estate’s stunning 40-acre property. Prefer beer over grape juice? Head to Granite Belt Retreat, a pet-friendly accommodation option with an onsite bar, restaurant and craft brewery. Set on 30 acres of natural bushland just five minutes from Stanthorpe, this country estate features 20 cedar cabins that make for the perfect place to relax and make memories with your travel companions.
Where to play
When it comes to potential adventures, Southern Queensland Country is jam-packed with fun-filled activities, to say the least. History lovers can check out Toowoomba’s Cobb + Co Museum, which is home to the National Carriage Collection and plenty of interesting transport exhibitions. Not far from Toowoomba is where you’ll find Highfields Pioneer Village, which showcases the history of the Darling Downs with more than 60 stunningly restored historical buildings, antique agricultural machinery and a heap of mini museums. Art lovers can get their fill of eye-catching artworks at Goondiwindi Art Gallery, where entry is free and a new exhibition opens every six weeks. Want to stretch your legs? The lush surrounds of Bunya Mountains National Park is the perfect place to do so. Discover cool mountains, rainforests and waterfalls, unique range-top grasslands, and cute wildlife. Take a picnic and enjoy the spectacular outlook from Fisher’s Lookout and relish in panoramic views of the mountains while you catch your breath. Extra adventurous folk have an unforgettable escape with Fordsdale Horseback Adventures, where you can ride through a picturesque 1000-acre property in the heart of the Lockyer Valley. Keen to pat some animals and escape for a day into the clean country air? Make the trip to Gleneden Family Farm, and enjoy a farm tour where you can meet some furry friends and learn how the farm works. You can bring your own picnics to have by the waterfall or grab some fresh produce and snacks from the farm shop.
This article was written in partnership with our friends at Southern Queensland Country.
