2020 has brought out the creativity in all of us in finding the hidden gems of our beautiful sunshine state Queensland. This itinerary gives you it all, from immersing yourself in wondrous nature to getting in touch with your inner Indiana Jones while exploring dinosaur history and bones. This would be a holiday that will truly create memories and give you the ability to really discover your own backyard.
Brisbane > 3 hours > Stanthorpe (Wine Country)
If you want to truly enjoy the most beautiful wines that Queensland prides themselves a 2 night minimum would give you prime opportunity to delve into all it has to offer. Tobin Wines has arguably one of the most fervent lots of wine tasting fans on the Granite Belt, all of who are utterly enchanted by Adrian Tobin’s wine passion and all know the joys of sitting down for a tasting session with knowledgeable host, Ian. Limited edition wines, expertly crafted and delivered in a cellar door experience considered by many as a more than mere tasting, but rather a ‘holy wine pilgrimage’!
Ridgeman Estate offers the ultimate romantic wine experiences. They have eight intimate luxury contemporary self-contained cabins that offer spectacular vineyard views.
Stanthorpe > 4.5 hours (Stop @ Nindigully Pub home to the Burger Train Challenge > St George
While in Saint George visit the Unique Emu Eggs carving shop and have a taste of the local wine at Riverside wines. If you have the time I would recommend the Sandytown River Cruises which offers a great way to see the local flora and fauna.
St George > 4.5 hours > Charleville
Don’t miss out on a visit to the Cosmos & Observatory Centre.
Charleville > 3.5 hours > Eromanga
Eromanga Natural History Museum is a must-do.
Eromanga > 5.5 hours > Isisford > 1hr 15 mins > Longreach
On the way to Longreach stop in at the Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre in Isisford. Here is a life-sized replica model of an Isisfordia Duncani which once roamed the earth some 98 million years ago. While in town, visit the Qantas Museum, Stockman Hall Of Fame and celebrate the end of the day on Drovers Sunset Cruise.
Longreach > 2 hours > Winton
Australian Age of Dinosaurs home to the worlds largest Australian dinosaur fossil collection.
Winton > 2.5 hours > Hughenden
Flinders Discovery Centre and Museum – display of impressive fossil collections.
Hughenden > 4 hours > Barcaldine
Tree of Knowledge also known as the birthplace of the Labor Party – Great opportunity to stretch the legs after a 4-hour drive and have a simple country pub meal.
Barcaldine > 3hours 15 mins > Emerald
Minerva Hills is a stunning park that is located in Queensland’s Central Highland Area and is easily doable in a day from Emerald. The park offers stunning jagged peaks, a result of volcanic activity from years ago, and there are lots of trails to do in the area. Minerva Hills is also home to a spectacular variety of wildlife and plants Keep an eye out for the unique rock art belonging to the Karai people in the past. Camping is not allowed in the park so staying nearby in Emerald is a great option.
Emerald > 3 hours > Canarvon Gorge
This hidden Jurassic park is amongst the rugged ranges of Central Highlands of Queensland. Hike this stunning location to immerse yourself in the towering sandstone cliffs, vibrantly coloured gorges and Aboriginal rock art that works as a natural time machine of stories.
This location offers you endless accommodation options but the one I would suggest is the glamping option that gives you the full kitchen and bathroom but the backdrop that go on postcards.
Canarvon Gorge > 3 hours > Blackdown National Park > 2 hours > Biloela
A much needed stop on your way to Biloela that offers that memorable outback oasis. The water is so clear and you can smell the sweetness of the flora and fauna surrounding the place.
Biloela > 4.5 hours > Bunya Mountains
To finish off your adventure in this beautiful National Park that has camping and houses to rent. You can go hiking, have a bbq and watch all the rainbow lorikeets eating amongst the endless wallabies that call this place home. Don’t forget your camera the views on the hike is stunning.
Bunya Mountains > 3.5 hours > Brisbane
Home sweet home, this is an itinerary you will never forget.
