You'll be planning a road trip like no other.
You'll be planning a road trip like no other.
How’s your passport looking right about now?
Likely shoved away in a drawer, a little dusty and rejected we reckon. And whilst we could go on about the woes of not being able to travel overseas and how it’s really, really bad and making us all sad, we must remind ourselves — we live in Australia.
We didn’t get the name of The Lucky Country for no reason. International visitors from far and wide are almost always taken back by the vastness and diversity of our nation, then, of course, the glorious beaches and natural wonders we have, before inevitably falling for our enigmatic Outback.
After all, the Outback can be as big if not bigger than most European countries!
How much of the Outback have you seen? For most of us, the answer is very little if anything at all, however, Outback Queensland Tourism wants to change all of that. They have just recently launched a carefully curated driving guide that highlights twelve tailored road trip itineraries and unmissable experiences. The guide promises to excite and inspire anyone who reads it to pack up the car and venture out into the undiscovered back corners of our Sunshine State. We do recommend telling your boss first though.
The Queensland Outback varies a lot and has all sorts of alluring things to capture the imagination for all of the family, from friendly fossil adventures, hidden gorges, Indigenous art, gold rush pioneering history right through to some jaw-dropping luxury stays.
Queensland’s big backyard spans 932,678km square (two-thirds of the state) and Outback Queensland Tourism is looking to educate Aussies on what the region has to offer and how it can be explored throughout the year.
The recently released Drive Guide showcases in detail eye-opening adventures, rich cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, indulgent retreats, and world-class Outback events – all naturally topped off with a generous serving of quintessential country hospitality.
“It has been a great summer for those in the Outback with the summer rains breathing even more life into the region, bringing along the spectacular Outback Queensland birdlife and wildflowers that truly are a sight to behold,” says Outback Queensland Tourism CEO Denise Brown.
“From unbeatable bakeries to coffee that’d give your suburban local a run for its money, Outback Queensland has a lot on offer, and we are looking forward to showcasing it to the rest of the state.”
It’s not just hospitality either. Queensland has some of the best examples of prehistoric history in comparison to any other state. Add to this, quirky and unique experiences like Windorah’s International Yabby Race or how about a visit to Queensland’s most remote pub in Middleton to wet your whistle?
There is so much to see and do, making it almost impossible to do just one trip! So what are you waiting for? Get to it – start planning here!
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Featuring eating, drinking and stunning scenery.
So we’re allowed to venture up to 150 kilometres away but we live on the Gold Coast so we already live in paradise. We’re also very keen for an adventure and to see something a little bit different than what we’ve been looking at for the past two months. What are we to do?
How about a little day trip (or spend the whole weekend if you wish) to Mount Tamborine? An absolutely stunning spot that’s only about 45 minutes away and offers more good times than you can probably jam into just one day honestly.
Let’s discuss. The drive itself is lovely and relaxing, winding up the mountain into the lush greenery and watching the city recede behind you. Once there, you’ll find yourself in a sweet little mountaintop village, surrounded by rainforest and on chillier days, with a low fog descending from above.
Now there are so many things to do once you get there, starting with tea and scones obviously. The Gallery Café has long been a favourite with an impressive array of teas (we’re quite partial to the Devonshire variety) plus of course, some warm, fluffy, freshly baked scones to kick things off. If it’s a bit on the nippy side up there, you can snuggle by the fireplace and not even venture outside.
You should though because you’re next stop is one of the many rainforest walks around the place including the Curtis Falls Walk (a fave) which yes has a waterfall at the end and is just a little 2km round trip. The Sandy Creek Circuit is also a beauty with views out over the Scenic Rim and also at a not-too-taxing 2.6km round trip.
Once you’ve sweated a bit, pop over to Lemon Lovers Gelato (across the road from the entrance to Curtis Falls) for a refreshing treat – they have over 20 flavours to choose from – and if you’re in a treat yo’self mood, Australian Outback Opals is right there filled with sparkly goodies too. How good are opals.
Right, so now you might like to wander up and down The Gallery Walk in the village, there are lots of quirky shops to peek into including fashion, jewellery, arts and crafts, produce, cellar door outlets, chocolate, fudge and cafes. All the best things.
One absolute must-visit is Granny Mac’s Famous Fudges because not only can you take home some of the yummiest fudge in the world, in pretty much any flavour you can think of, you can also stock up on an array of your favourite lollies (including some you forgot existed) for the trip home.
For a late lunch you need to head to Cedar Creek Estate where you can grab a picnic basket and set up on the lawn. For just $85, you’ll get an antipasto plate, a cheese plate, salads and warm dishes, muffins and chocolate and a basket and throw rug that you can take home. Enjoy all that while overlooking the stunning surrounds and that’s pretty much the most relaxing time there is.
Once you’re done there, head to Fortitude Brewing for some locally brewed, takeaway beers to enjoy once you get back home and right next door you’ll find Witches Chase Cheese who offer a huge variety of delicious goodness (including French and Italian flavours) you’ll absolutely want to stock up on. If wine is more your thing, pop over to Witches Falls Winery to grab a few bottles to take home.
Hopefully you went on a big enough stroll to not feel too full because that’s a lot of eating and drinking. Our fave. Finish the day off by watching one of the most magical sunsets you’ll ever see from Rotary Lookout. Perfection
Of course you can stay overnight on Mount Tamborine and find plenty more fun things to fill your time but well worth a day trip if that’s all you have.
Happy getting away from home for a bit.
Words by Kirra Smith
Scenic drives, exceptional dishes.
Every January, the Australian Good Food Guide (AGFG) bestows its much-anticipated Chef Hat Awards, aka the foodie holy grail. For hardcore dining devotees, it’s a bit like Christmas morning, only with better smells and no awkward socks. Think of this as our cheat sheet for working your way, hungry-caterpillar style, around the most esteemed and decorated local destinations.
Our Northern Rivers neighbours are doing their thing, but this year we’re also adding South East QLD country into the mix – because why limit your appetite?
Whether it’s hinterland hideaways or mountain-top marvels, these spots all earned a Chef Hat score of 13 or above, making them prime candidates for your next road trip. Here are 16 of this year’s most road trip-worthy restaurants:
Founded by former Paper Daisy chef, Pipit owner Ben Devlin (alongside his wife Yen Trinh) is no stranger to the art of crafting exquisite eats – nor has he pulled any punches when it comes to his first solo venture. And AGFG clearly agrees, with Pottsville’s Coronation Avenue darling taking out the coveted top spot among this year’s most noteworthy Northern Rivers Hat recipients. They stand as the highest-ranked NSW regional restaurant outside of Sydney.
Pipit’s superb score of 16/20 propels them to pole position on our day trip priority list and also, according to the AGFG, ‘ worth a detour’ designation.
Set aside a few hours and treat yourself to the revelatory set menu dining experience, a curated sequence of flavours, textures and ideas spanning over several hours, one which Ben likens to ‘a day trip around the Northern Rivers’ in and of itself.
Where: 8 Coronation Avenue, Pottsville
Byron Bay institution, Raes on Wategos scored an impressive 15/20. Headed by Executive Chef Jason Saxby, the restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine with a Mediterranean influence deemed ‘Quite Out of the Ordinary’ by AGFG – we wholeheartedly agree.
The chic boutique retreat, an icon set amongst Byron’s idyllic beaches, delivers a fine-dining experience in its Dining Room, headed by Executive Chef Jason Saxby. A culinary showcase of the region, curated with Mediterranean influences, the menu offers Caviar service, 3-course à la carte and Tasting Menu options.
A word of warning, though – after tasting dishes like Lamb Blackstrap in black garlic, lamb fat & anchovy salsa, Glazed Northern Rivers Duck, and the MacAffogato dessert, a coconut and roast macadamia sorbet topped with macadamia crumb, Brookie’s Mac liqueur and espresso, you might want to move in.
Where: 6 – 8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay
Murwillumbah’s aptly named Tweed River House, perched just a stone’s throw from its banks, also scored a hat – earning a rating of 14 for its gastronomic bistro and bar experience. Shout out to master chef Dayron Perugorria.
The venue, housed in a spruced-up, century-old colonial-style mansion, offers a panoramic river view, wraparound verandas, and elevated eats to match.
The luxurious and immaculately appointed interiors alone make it worth filling your tank. Still, decadent dishes like Lobster agnolotti with vin jaune and wild vanilla sauce, Beef tartare with brioche and crème fraîche and the Peach dessert made with poached peach, almond dacquoise, peach mousse and almond praline certainly sweeten the deal.
Where: 131 River St, South Murwillumbah
Another noshery deemed one of the best in the Northern Rivers Restaurant category is Murwillumbah’s Bistro Livi, scoring the prestigious hat with a total of 14.
A short 30km trek from Cooly and one of the fresher faces among its culinary cohort – if you’re yet to be acquainted with Livi, it’s an easy one to tick off the list when you’re looking for a low effort adventure snap you out of the Sunday lazies (or scaries).
Tucked within the arts precinct of the tight-knit Murbah community, the European-inspired venue radiates romance with rustic textures and an inviting, intimate ambience, while Spanish influences inform the menu. It’s certainly not just the AGFG critics that this regional gem has succeeded in winning over… #swoon.
Where: 1A 1-3 Brisbane St, Murwillumbah
This Possum Creek gem scored 13, shocking absolutely no one who’s ever eaten there. Set in a literal old-school setting (the former O’Possum Creek Public School), it pairs Southern European flavours with Byron hinterland charm.
Soak up garden views through airy white windows as you dive into fresh oysters or Burrata with Tuscan tomato salsa, breadcrumbs and basil oil. For mains, expect delights such as Black Angus brisket ragú with horseradish gremolata and Parmigiano Reggiano, and Australian bay lobster with chilli, garlic, confit cherry tomatoes, zucchini and crustacean bisque.
Rustic, refined, and ridiculously good, this is one lesson in good taste you won’t want to skip.
Where: 471 Friday Hut Road, Possum Creek
If long, lazy farm lunches are your vibe, Frida’s Field is a must. Set on 120 dreamy acres just outside Bangalow, this paddock-to-plate gem dishes up a seasonal feast that scored 13/20. Award-winning chef Alastair Waddell lets Northern Rivers produce shine with a modern Australian menu that changes every six weeks – think wood-fired meats, farm-fresh veggies and big, bold flavours.
With only three long lunches a week (Friday to Sunday), this is a slow-food experience in every sense – one sitting per service, plenty of time to sip, savour, and soak up the Byron hinterland views. Whether you go omnivore or veg, you’re in for a next-level spread that might just ruin you for regular dining forever.
Where: 76 Booyong Road, Nashua
Capitalizing on Carool’s sweeping valley views, Potager – A Kitchen Garden has long been a favourite destination among locals and discerning visitors. The charming nosher is also somewhat of a teacher’s pet, earning a score of 13 for its Modern Australian style eats in this year’s Chef Hat Awards – along with a near-perfect 4.8 score on Google, might we add… and honestly, we’re not sure which is harder to pull off.
Set on a small 10-acre farm, the seasonal menu is informed by locally sourced produce, much of which is grown on the property. Dishes like the heirloom tomato with Byron Bay mozzarella are a testament to the community-minded culinary experience, while the fish stew with focaccia and zeta’s coffee and dark chocolate mousse gets a mention, because #yum
Where: 502 Carool Rd, Carool
Byron Bay’s Dorsia has quietly earned itself a well-deserved nod with a solid 13, cementing its place as one of the region’s most exciting dining destinations. Sitting along Jonson Street, this intimate, mood-driven restaurant delivers a polished yet approachable take on modern fine dining – the kind that feels special, but never stuffy.
Guests can choose between a thoughtfully curated two-course or three-course menu, dive all in with the chef’s tasting menu, or kick things off with elegant snacks and a luxe caviar experience. Early standouts include the pillowy Parker roll with Noosa black garlic and the indulgent dry-aged duck cigar. Mains deliver more exquisite dishes like Murray cod paired with pickled green mango and coconut, or the show-stopping Cape Grim sirloin with burnt carrot and puffed grains. Dessert is a must, with Valrhona dark chocolate and malted milk that leaves you wanting to order round two.
Where: 109 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
Halcyon House’s beloved Paper Daisy, of course, also earned itself a nod, with an honourable 13. The esteemed and elegant eatery, sitting pretty against Cabarita Beach’s stunning shores, is not just reserved for sandy-footed in-house guests.
We’re all invited to see what the fuss is about, courtesy of the bar, open from 3pm, or for dinner. Led by Andrew Milford, the kitchen shoots for ‘sophisticated simplicity’, where you can expect to delight in inventive and delectable dishes like Spanish anchovies and gremolata on toast with guindillas and coconut-crumbed king prawns, green mango and herb salad alongside an award-winning wine menu.
We’d recommend packing your appetite (and your towel, because, y’know, Caba #phwoar).
Where: 21 Cypress Cres, Cabarita Beach
Brunswick Heads’ River – Wild at Heart has quickly carved out a name for itself after opening less than a year ago. Sitting pretty on Mullumbimby Street, this intimate dining destination is a creation by Scottish-born chef and former welder (yes, really) Michael Lee, serving small plates that change and adapt to what’s growing and what’s caught.
Standout starters include the Lismore wild shot venison tataki made with Blueberry Fields ponzu, radish, charred and crispy shallots and the bay lobster with smoked garlic, lobster coral butter and lemon. For the main, the soltera rum-glazed smoked corn short rib and the local line-caught market fish. Finish with Piña colada made with soltera rum, sumac caramel and coconut aquafaba and you may call it the best meal of your life.
Where: 2/26 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads
For a long, leisurely meal in a ridiculously scenic spot, Shelter is the move. With a score of 13, an award-winning wine list, and bi-fold windows framing 7 Mile Beach, it’s got everything going for it – top-tier food, service, and views.
From sunrise to sunset, they’re serving up seasonal, sustainable, and ethically sourced goodness. Kick off your morning with green chilli scrambled eggs with avocado and roti, or swing by later for gems like local sashimi with watermelon verjus, gochugaru salt, grapes and finger lime, followed by their daily beef cut with chilli crunch, katsuobushi cream, black sesame. Don’t leave without trying the beetroot mousse with lavender, pine nuts and almond panna cotta rhubarb consommé. Trust us.
Where: 41 Pacific Parade, Lennox Head
Perched on Byron Bay’s Jonson Lane, Bar Heather transports its diners to the charm of Paris or New York – at least that’s what it feels like. They lead with an exquisite selection of natural wine, followed by an equally impressive menu, so clearly designed to torture and tantalize you into returning time and time again. It’s no surprise that they, too, were awarded a 13/20.
You must try their snapper with tomato cream and cucumber and the lamb skewer with roasted chilli and roti. And, of course, no trip to Bar Heather is complete without sampling a selection from their wine list. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 139 Jonson Lane, Byron Bay
High on a mountain, with clouds drifting past your table and the Great Dividing Range as your backdrop, The Peak is where Modern Australian cuisine meets luxury without fuss. AGFG scored it 15/20, enough to make this Scenic Rim gem a must-visit.
The tasting menu is a culinary journey across Australia: cured kangaroo, dry-aged duck, Kangaroo Island marron and more, all paired with wines that could start their own conversation. With comfy furnishings, an open stone fireplace and an outdoor terrace that’s practically begging for a lingering lunch, The Peak turns a meal into a full-on experience.
Road trips are better with views like this, and food this ambitious.
Where: 1 Wilkinson Road, Maryvale
At Homage, the clue really is in the name. This refined paddock-to-plate powerhouse at Spicers Hidden Vale celebrates the farmers, producers and fertile lands of the Darling Downs and Lockyer Valley with flair.
Scoring a solid 14/20 from AGFG, Homage is officially ‘worth a detour’ and then some. The menu champions local ingredients with dishes that feel both elegant and deeply connected to place, whether that’s Murray cod with finger lime and macadamia cream, pork belly with Kalbar carrot and nduja or heritage rooster elevated into something truly special.
It’s fine dining with heart, where every plate tells a story and every ingredient earns its spot.
Where: Spicers Hidden Vale, 617 Grandchester–Mt Mort Road, Grandchester
Boonah’s Blume is a restaurant that feels like it’s been quietly waiting for you. Inspired by the town’s original name, Blumbergville, this 14/20 AGFG-hatted spot focuses on the principle of ‘time and place’. Only the freshest local ingredients make it to the table.
The ever-evolving set menu is packed with clever touches: rainbow trout with finger lime, Brisbane Valley quail with fig leaf and exotic pepper, or sweet cheese ice cream with apricot and almond praline. Every course reflects the region, the season, and the care of the people behind it.
Where: 5 Church Street, Boonah
In the heart of the Gold Coast Hinterland, The Paddock is a spacious, sunlit spot celebrating simple, honest food. AGFG awarded it 13/20 for its unpretentious approach to paddock-to-plate dining.
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors frame sweeping Hinterland views while the menu champions local produce, from roast duck with spiced carrot purée to fire-grilled vegetables and Wagyu rump cap. Cooking over an open flame, the dishes are rustic yet refined, the kind that make a long drive feel completely worth it.
If you’re chasing fresh air, great food and a true Hinterland vibe, The Paddock delivers in spades.
Where: 422 Binna Burra Road, Beechmont
Words by Chelsea Ipsen and Belinda Symons
Make the most of golden hour.
Sunset has to be the best time of the day (some people we know say sunrise, but we wouldn’t know, ahem) – so sunset it is.
Now that spring has sprung, cue the Spotify sunset mix, we’re keen to start enjoying the balmy evenings and appreciate this gorgeous time of day. To get you all inspired, here’s a list of some of the best sunset-chasing adventures on the Gold Coast. Psst – there’s more to do at golden hour than snap the perfect pic (although you must also do that) #everythingiscontent.
This one’s a no-brainer, but hear us out. Sure, it took the Gold Coast a minute to catch up to our southern pals in the rooftop bar game. Odd, right? Especially considering we’ve got the best weather in the country, no contest. But hey, better late than never! These days, we’re spoiled for choice with rooftop spots all over the Coast. So why not make up for lost time? Pick your favorite perch, grab a drink, and soak in that golden hour glow as the sun sets on another perfect day. We love The Exhibitionist Bar for its ever-evolving and always killer cocktail list or Sandfire for a sophisticated (kids free) sip overlooking the North Burleigh headland. Aviary Rooftop brings tropical vibes and DJ beats as the sky turns pink, while feeling fancy types will love Nineteen at The Star for elevated drinks and sweeping skyline views. And if ocean outlooks are your thing, Hyde Paradiso serves Euro glamour with a side of sunset over Surfers.
Check out our full list of rooftop bars here.
Sometimes the best sunsets don’t need a booking (or a bar tab). A golden hour wander along the Burleigh Headland that rolls seamlessly into sunset is hard to beat, especially when the light hits just right. For an easy, feel-good option, take a sunset stroll or bike ride along the ocean pathways, where salty air, pastel skies and that end-of-day glow do all the heavy lifting. If you’re keen to mix things up, the Hinze Dam sunset lookout delivers wide-open skies and a totally different perspective on the Coast. And when in doubt, a Broadwater Parklands wander with an ice cream in hand as the sun dips behind the skyline is always a good idea.
Check out our list of picnic spots here.
Surf clubs are lifesavers, aren’t they? Perched right on your local stretch of sand, they somehow tick every box – prime oceanfront views, affordable drinks and hearty eats, all served up in a setting where thongs are not only acceptable but encouraged. They’re unfussy, unpretentious, and always ready to deliver a reliable palmy when hunger strikes. Come for the sunset, stay for the chilled beer and a classic pub-style feed that won’t break the bank.
It’s casual, comforting and effortlessly coastal – the kind of place where sunset plans require zero planning at all. If there’s a more quintessentially Gold Coast way to soak up the end of the day, we’re yet to find it.
This is where things get a little luxe (and a lot memorable). A sunset cruise on the Broadwater is a classic for a reason – romantic if it’s just the two of you, or equally fun with a group. Prefer to be closer to the action? Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding at sunset is pure magic when the water is calm and glowing, while a jet ski session at golden hour delivers adrenaline with unbeatable views. Take things to new heights – literally – at SkyPoint Observation Deck, where 360-degree sunset views from the Coast’s highest vantage point are hard to beat.
Check out our list of water sports and activity providers here.
Prep your schedules, friends, because another sunset is on its way.
Words by Belinda Symons
