From the Sunshine Coast

Journey from coast to country on this spectacular drive from the Sunshine Coast to Toowoomba. Starting oceanside, you’ll travel through the fertile hinterland and into the Brisbane Valley, passing through historic towns and quintessential Queensland landscapes. Wind your way through the lush rainforest of Ravensbourne National Park, enjoying breathtaking views of the Great Dividing Range, before arriving in the garden city of Toowoomba.

Distance:
227km of pure Queensland magic

Driving time:
3 hours and change (plus time to stop and take it all in)

Highlights:
Yowie Park in Kilcoy (mythical creature selfie, anyone?)
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (cyclists, runners, and horse riders unite!)
Ravensbourne National Park (where the trees are tall and the views are taller)
Chocolate Cottage in Highfields (for your sweet ending)

MAROOCHYDORE TO KILCOY
(86KM)

As you leave the Sunshine Coast, head south along the M1 and follow D’Aguilar  Highway westward. Wind down the window and enjoy relaxing rural vistas of rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges as you arrive in the idyllic country town of Kilcoy. Call in to Yowie Park for a ‘selfie’ with a statue of this mythical creature sighted in the area in 1979. There’s a good selection of local cafes if you’re looking for a cuppa and be sure to visit the nearby Kilcoy Craft Cottage for some delightful hand-made treasures.

KILCOY TO ESK
(52KM)

Head southwest along the Brisbane Valley Highway to Toogoolawah and the Somerset Regional Art Gallery. Old meets new at this unique art precinct located in the former century old Nestle condensed milk factory. Meet friendly volunteers at Toogoolawah Railway Museum for local insights. Just outside the station house is the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, a disused rail corridor now hugely popular with cyclists, horse riders and runners. Discover Esk, the gateway to Lake Wivenhoe and Lake Somerset. Visit unique gift and antique stores on the main street and enjoy lunch or refreshments in one of the many local cafes or restaurants.

ESK TO TOOWOOMBA
(89KM)

Continue along the Brisbane Valley Highway to Ravensbourne and explore short walks in Ravensbourne National Park. Wander through palm groves, rainforest and open eucalypt forest teeming with native birds. Alternatively, you might prefer a picnic at Gus Beutel lookout with its panoramic views of the Lockyer Valley and the Border Ranges. In the picturesque village of Hampton, you’ll find a thriving arts community and farm-gate produce. A dynamic food bowl hub, Hampton supplies much of the state’s rhubarb and avocados. If something sweet is in order, a visit to the Chocolate Cottage in Highfields is a must. Last stop before Toowoomba is Spring Bluff Railway with its award-winning gardens and heritage railway station.