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Best Scenic Country Drives

from Brisbane

Updated: Mar 20, 2024

Fill the tank and head to Southern Queensland Country for an unforgettable drive along the most scenic country roads in Australia. With no shortage of routes to choose from, the hardest decision you’ll face is which one to tackle first. Whether you have a day or a weekend, here are some top suggestions:

Farmers Country Drive - 3/4 Day Tour

On this picturesque drive, you'll pass through Toowoomba, Oakey, Maclagan, Cooyar, Goombungee and Meringandan. Pay a visit to the Australian Army Flying Museum at Oakey, then take in the paddocks as you loop through farming country and stop for a friendly beverage at The Pioneers Arms at Goombungee or the Meringandan Hotel. Before heading home, drop into Rosalie House Cellar Door for a tasting.

Open Plains Steele Rudd Country Drive – Full-Day Tour

Take a country drive to meet the real Darling Downs through its publicans and locals, with a visit to one of the region's character-filled pubs. Delve further into local history via the Millmerran murals and Pittsworth Historical Village where you'll get a fascinating glimpse of a bygone era. And if travelling during December to March, keep an eye out for the bright yellow fields of sunflowers  -a popular day trip in itself!

Southern Downs Warwick Weekender

From Brisbane, head to the charming country town of Killarney to view The Falls Drive, including the majestic Queen Mary Falls, before driving on to your destination of Warwick (famous for its roses and rodeos). Arrive late in the day when you'll catch the golden afternoon light on Warwick's sandstone buildings, before settling in for a fabulous weekend of heritage and history.

The Great Bunya Drive

The iconic scenic drive meanders through 390 kilometres of beautiful, country landscapes between Toowoomba and Gympie, taking in both the Darling Downs and South Burnett regions. Along the way, you'll take in award-winning wineries, gourmet cafes, heritage museums, country markets and stunning national parks, all waiting to be explored.

Gatton to Gundy

Head west to Goondiwindi and take your time to explore the countryside along the back roads. Stop and pay a visit to the country pubs, enjoy a pitstop or picnic at Coolmunda Dam and view the Yelarbon Silos. When you reach Gundi, be sure to explore the thriving food scene before returning to Gatton.

Love all things motorized? Make a detour via Flagstone Creek Road on your way to Toowoomba from Gatton, to visit The Barn and Scotty’s Garage, one of the region's absolute treasures. Behind the facade of the historic garage there's a hidden retro diner and a vintage auto museum.

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