13 Queensland road trips that are anything but ordinary

Queensland is made for road trips. Its weather is spot-on for outdoor pursuits year-round. Its landscapes celebrate the coast, the forest, the mountains and the outback. And its activities include everything from heart-pumping white water rafting to family-friendly animal encounters.

So why would you deny yourself the chance to get out and explore? The answer: no reason whatsoever. Here are our top 13 road trip ideas to fuel your travel addiction.

Savannah Way

This adventurous drive takes you across state borders through 15 national parks and 5 world heritage areas. Not one for the faint-hearted, the landscape starts tropical then moves into open outback as you make your way from Tropical North Queensland through the Top End and onto Broome. Choose to drive part way or challenge yourself to the full drive over a few weeks.

• Total distance: 3,727km, 1 day 17 hours and 40 minutes one-way.
• Route: Cairns-Broome via Katherine.
• Highlights: Mt Surprise, Hells Gates, Limmen National Park, Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park, Timber Creek and Gregory National Park, Kununurra, Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing.
• Best time to drive: Dry season to avoid flooding and potential closed roads/sections.
• Things to do: Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, hike your choice of national park and go on a pearl farm tour in Willie Creek.
• Stay at: Karumba Point Sunset Caravan Park in Normanton, Savannah Way Motel in Borroloola, Beagle Motor Inn in Katherine, Discovery Parks Lake Kununurra in Kununurra, Fitzroy River Lodge in Fitzroy Crossing or Moonlight Bay Suites in Broome.
• Eat at: Ash's at The Point Cafe & Store in Karumba, Carpentaria Grill in Borroloola, Marksie's Stockman's Camp Tucker Night in Katherine, PumpHouse in Kununurra and Fitzroy River Lodge in Fitzroy Crossing.

• View a full six-day itinerary for the Savannah Way road trip.

  Day	Route and itinerary
  Day 1 Distance: 679km Drive time: 7 hours, 49 minutes	Cairns to Normanton Drive west along the National Route 1. Stop by Yungaburra for breakfast. Take a side trip to Millaa Millaa for a breath of fresh air while you catch its famous waterfall. If you're good for time, stop by the Undara Experience near Mount Surprise where you can walk through gigantic lava tubes. Take a lunch break either here or in Georgetown. Call it a day in Normanton, staying at Karumba Point Sunset Caravan Park.
  Day 2 Distance: 720km Drive time: 8 hours	Normanton to Borroloola Feel like a true Australian explorer and pay a visit to the historic Burke and Wills Camp location, which is just outside of Normanton. Have breakfast in Burketown where you can enjoy coastal views of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Stock up on supplies as you won't be passing through any more towns until Borroloola. Keep heading west along the National Highway and don't forget to change your watch when you cross the state border into the NT. Stay the night in Savannah Way Motel, Borroloola.
  Day 3 Distance: 660km Drive time: 8.5 hours	Borroloola to Katherine Expect a long but magical day, so start it early. Pack lots of food and supplies and put on your hiking boots as you follow the coastline to Limmen National Park. Known for its towering sandstone monoliths that look like temple ruins, springs and waterfalls, it's like the Monument Valley of Australia. Certain trails require a 4WD, but there are short walking loops, such as the Southern Lost City which is a 2km walk. On the other side of the park, you can dip your feet into Mataranka Thermal Pool and Rainbow Springs. Finish your day in Katherine staying at Beagle Motor Inn.
  Day 4 Distance: 546km (includes trip to Katherine Gorge) Drive time: 5 hours, 45 minutes	Katherine to Kununurra With time to spare, you could spend the day exploring Nitmiluk National Park. Otherwise, to stay your course, get a taste of the park by driving the 20 minutes to its iconic Katherine Gorge. Come back through Katherine for a bite and to fuel up then get back on the National Highway 1. Stop at Timber Creek's Nackeroo Lookout for river and town views. The lookout has picnic tables so you can make this a meal stop, too. Continue west into Western Australia and steal that photo-op of DAFWA Kununurra Checkpoint Charlie. Rest up in Discovery Parks Lake Kununurra.
  Day 5 Distance: 647km Drive time: 6.5 hours	Kununurra to Fitzroy Crossing Choose one of the handful of short trails to walk through Mirima National Park. It's small but heavily picturesque with its golden rock formations tufted in bush. Drive west along the highway until you hit Molly Springs, a small spring-fed pool where you can cool your jets for a spill. Further down the road is Harry's Water Hole. It's much larger but also much more popular. Grab a bite to eat in Durack or Warmun. From Warmun, you can stray off the path to see the famous Bungle Bungles. They're sandstone formations that have been likened to beehives. It's a rough track though and should only be driven by 4WD. Back on the road, Halls Creek is your next big town and an ideal resting point. It's surrounded by a number of viewpoints including Halls Creek Lookout, Caroline Pool and China Wall, named due to its similarity to the Great Wall of China – in look, not in size. Take that well-deserved rest at Mary Pool (one hour from Halls Creek) before finishing the final two-hour stretch to Fitzroy Crossing. Sleep at Fitzroy River Lodge.
  Day 6 Distance: 396km Drive time: 4 hours	Fitzroy Crossing to Broome To stretch out the day, you can spend the morning in Danggu Gorge National Park. Otherwise, sleep in, have a meal in Fitzroy Crossing and drive off. Soon enough, you'll be in RAAF Boab Quarry with its crystal clear water and boab trees. Make your next stop at the Giant Boab Tree. Located on the highway, you can't miss this gnarled and twisted tree of time. Over the years, people have carved their names into its trunk. You'll get a taste of civilisation in Willare, where you can also fuel up. From here, continue through the desert, turning off the National Highway onto Broome Road. Before you hit the coastal city, have a close croc encounter at the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park. Finish your drive onto Broome, staying the night in Moonlight Bay Suites.

Bloomfield Track

Waterfall-filled rainforests, creek crossings and sandy coastal landscapes are what you've signed yourself up for when taking on the Bloomfield Track from Cairns. The track itself is short, taking you along the Bloomfield River but is typically included in a trip from Cairns to Cooktown. Hire a 4WD for it though as the track is a rough one.

• Total distance: 243km, 4.5 hours.
• Route: Cairns to Cooktown, via Bloomfield Track.
• Highlights: Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, The Daintree, Emmagen Creek, Mt Sorrow Ridge, Cowie Beach, Bloomfield River and Wujal Wujal Falls.
• Best time to drive: May to November is the dry season and the safest for driving the track.
• Things to do: Outer Barrier Reef Cruise from Port Douglas, guided Daintree rainforest tour and horse riding along the beach at Cape Tribulation.
• Stay at: Hillcrest Guest House in Cooktown.
• Eat at: Daintree Village Hotel, Daintree Ice Cream Company and Bowled Over Bistro.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Bloomfield Track road trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 243km Drive time: 4.5 hours

  Cairns to Cooktown Head north along the National Route 1, Captain Cook Highway and Mossman Daintree Road past Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation Road. Take a break (or a side trip) at the Lower Daintree or Cape Tribulation itself. The beginning of the Bloomfield Track is right after Cape Tribulation. Its official name is Cape Tribulation Bloomfield Road. Highlights on the track are Emmagen Creek, Cowie Beach and Bloomfield River. Once beyond the track, make your way north to Cooktown via the Rossville Bloomfield Road. Finish your trip in Cooktown by staying at Hillcrest Guest House.

Old Telegraph Track, Cape York

Love getting stuck into off-road adventuring? The Old Telegraph Track is legendary. It follows the old Overland Telegraph Line in Cape York and is a spot of rough and rugged track scalable only by vehicles with low range gears and high ground clearance – in other words, a 4WD.

You'll need to push through deep creeks and slippery riverbeds, but the landscape of verdant bush and waterfalls that gush into swimmable pools are worth it.

• Total distance: ~200km, 1-2 days.
• Route: Bramwell Junction to Jardine River Ferry.
• Highlights: Fruit Bat Falls, Eliot/Twin/Indian Head Falls, Sam Creek and Jardine River.
• Best time to drive: May to October only. This is the dry season. The track is closed due to safety reasons otherwise.
• Things to do: Swimming and camping.
• Stay at: Canal Creek, Sam Creek, Mistake Creek, Cannibal Creek, Cypress Creek and Bridge Creek all have campgrounds. Otherwise, you can set up your tent in Jardine River National Park at the end of the drive.
• Eat at: BYO as this route is very remote.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Old Telegraph Track road trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: ~200km Drive time: 1-2 days

  Bramwell Junction to Jardine River Ferry Follow the signs at Bramwell Junction Roadhouse to the southern end of Old Telegraph Track (Telegraph Road). Follow the track along the challenging Palm Creek, Bertie Creek, Cockatoo Creek, Gunshot Creek and Alice Creek crossings of the south. In the north (Old Telegraph Track), Fruit Bat Falls is a great turning off point for a rest and a quick dip. Continue to Eliot Falls for another swim before giving your wheels a break in Canal Creek, which has camping and toilet facilities. For a quieter swim, wait until you get to Sam Creek. Drive past Mistake, Cannibal, Cypress and Nolans Brook Creeks until the track ends. Then turn left onto Ussher Point Road to the Jardine River ferry crossing.

Pacific Coast Way

Keep the Pacific Ocean to your right as you follow the coast past golden beaches, lush rainforest, sparkling lakes and waters teeming with colourful wildlife. This drive captures all of Queensland's natural coastal beauty from beaches and reefs to rainforests and gorges taking you from the Gold Coast into the Tropical North city of Cairns.

• Total distance: 1,894km, 22 hours.
• Route: Gold Coast to Cairns.
• Highlights: Sunshine Coast, Glasshouse Mountains, Hervey Bay, Fraser Island, Gin Gin, 1770, Agnes Waters, Rockhampton, Great Barrier Reef, Bowen, Silver Link Bridge, Townsville, Tyto Wetlands and Mission Beach.
• Best time to drive: Summer.
• Things to do: Whale watching on the Sunshine Coast, turtle discover tour in Hervey Bay, half-day cruise of the Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach, explore Townsville and Magnetic Island, skydive over Mission Beach and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.
• Stay at: Beach Motel in Hervey Bay or The Point Resort on the Coral Coast, Glenmore Tavern near Rockhampton, Colonial Palms Motor Inn in Airlie Beach, Mariners North Holiday Apartments in Townsville and Cairns Plaza Hotel.
• Eat at: The Vinyard in Hervey Bay, Cafe Bliss in Rockhampton, Cafe One 3 on Airlie Beach, JAM in Townsville and Cairns Burger Cafe in Cairns.

• View a full five-day itinerary for the Pacific Coast Way road trip.

  Day	Route and itinerary
  Day 1 Distance: 367km Drive time: 4 hours, 40 minutes	Gold Coast to Hervey Bay Drive north along the Pacific Motorway M1 past Brisbane onto the Sunshine Coast. If travelling between June and October, keep your eyes open for whales migrating or hedge your bets and join a whale watching cruise. Outside of whale watching season, you can see the city by water on a rafting adventure. Get back onto the M1, connecting to the Bruce Highway A1 onto Hervey Bay. Time permitting, hop onto a Hervey Bay Sunset Cruise for incredible views of the coast and Fraser Island. Stay the night at Beach Motel in Hervey Bay.
  Day 2 Distance: 382km Drive time: 4 hours, 20 minutes	Hervey Bay to Rockhampton Spend your morning on a turtle discovery tour in Hervey Bay. On your way north, make a stop in Gin Gin to visit its historical village. Have lunch, complete with beach views, at the coastal towns of 1770 or Agnes Waters. Take your camera out in Gladstone to capture pics of the Great Barrier Reef from the shore. Stay the night in Glenmore Tavern near Rockhampton.
  Day 4 Distance: 275km Drive time: 3 hours, 15 minutes	Airlie Beach to Townsville Wake up to sunrise over the coast. Catch the early morning ferry to Daydream Island or Hamilton Island and bask on their sands. Or, book a half-day cruise of the Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach. Take a leisurely drive up to Ayr, known for its parks and its artistic Ayr Nature Display. Call it a day in Townsville, staying at Mariners North Holiday Apartments.
  Day 5 Distance: 347km Drive time: 4 hours, 10 minutes	Townsville to Cairns Hop onto the ferry bound for Magnetic Island for its palm-fringed beaches and coastal hikes. If you're planning to see and do more, a Townsville and Magnetic Island pass includes a return ferry ride to Magnetic Island and entry to Bungalow Bay Koala Village, Reef HQ Aquarium and Museum of Tropical Queensland. Keep the beach theme running with a stop on Mission Beach. Those feeling brave can tick a skydive over the Great Barrier Reef off their bucket lists. Otherwise, complete your journey to Cairns where the Great Barrier Reef and activities such as snorkelling are only a short boat ride away. Stay the night at Cairns Plaza Hotel.

Gillies Highway

What puts the Gillies Highway on the map – outside of it taking you through a stunning forested road – is its shape. It's windy. In fact, it boasts over 300 curves across less than 20km. This adrenaline-filled ride has made it a favourite for motorcyclists and scooter enthusiasts keen to twist and turn their way into adventure. Not surprisingly, it's a dangerous route and should be ridden with care as it's also popular with tourists in motor vehicles headed to the Atherton Tablelands.

• Total distance: 60km, 1 hour.
• Route: Gordonvale-Atherton.
• Highlights: Robson's Track, Gillies Lookout, Heales Lookout, Lake Barrine and Curtain Fig Tree.
• Best time to drive: Year-round.
• Things to do: If you're based in Cairns, take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands. Otherwise, this is primarily a short, scenic drive through the national and state parks.
• Eat at: Petals and Pinecones in Atherton.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Gillies Highway road trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 60km Drive time: 1 hour

  Gordonvale to Atherton Despite its twists and turns, this is a pretty straightforward trip. From Gordonvale, get onto Gillies Range Road/State Route 52 and follow it all the way to Atherton. You'll hit your first bend in the road just after Goldsborough swinging left and right through Little Musgrave Forest Reserve. If you feel the need to take a break, Robson's Track offers spectacular forest views. The road becomes slightly less windy at the point, and you'll want to keep an eye out for Heales Lookout. It's popular as a motorists pit-stop and offers fantastic hinterland scenery on a clear day. Back on the windy road, the Gillies Highway Forest Reserve has more than its fair share of twists and turns. Rest your noggin at Lake Barrine Teahouse. From here on, the road eases all the way to Atherton. Be sure to stop at Curtain Fig tree for a spectacular shot with this natural wonder before arriving in Atherton.

Great Barrier Reef Drive

This touristic route takes in that entire stretch of land where the forest of the Daintree meets the sea of the Great Barrier Reef. From Palm Cove to Port Douglas, you'll literally be on the edge of the cliff face with the dozen shades of blue of the Great Barrier Reef to ogle over. Beyond that, you can take a side trip through the Daintree, where you can walk paths of green, crooking your neck up to the skies as you peep through the canopy while nature coos in the background.

• Total distance: 152km, 2 hours and 50 minutes.
• Route: Cairns to Cape Tribulation via Port Douglas.
• Highlights: Fitzroy Island, Port Douglas, Lower and Upper Daintree and Mossman Gorge.
• Best time to drive: Winter due to the dry conditions and low humidity in the Daintree.
• Things to do: Swim, snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas, Cairns or Cape Tribulation, explore the variety of Daintree trails or unwind with a massage and spa treatment in the Lower Daintree.
• Stay at: Heritage Lodge in the Daintree.
• Eat at: Tha Fish in Cairns, Daintree Tea House Restaurant in the Daintree and CJ's Bar & Cafe in Cape Tribulation.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Great Barrier Reef Drive road trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 152km Drive time: 2 hours, 50 minutes

  Cairns to Cape Tribulation Start (or end) your day snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef before jumping in your car for the ultimate scenic ride along the Captain Cook Highway. Just outside of Cairns, take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway above the canopy and test out a short hike at the summit. Pop by Trinity, Clifton and Palm Cove beach for soft sand, palm trees, promenades and friendly folk. Hug that coastline as you melt between the forest (Kuranda) and the ocean. For a thrilling break, drop by Hartley's Crocodile Adventures for a close encounter. Yule Point is worth your time as it sits just moments from that famous reef. Keep on north to Port Douglas for lunch with a view. Swing by Mossman Gorge, home to large granite boulders. At this point, you're on the doorstep of the Daintree. A popular entrance is via the Lower Daintree past Wonga, which leads you to Daintree Village and the tourist information centre. Activities here include ferry rides, Aboriginal culture experiences, massage spa treatments and a handful of short walks. Drive back to the highway bound for Cape Tribulation. You'll discover a wide variety of Daintree walks departing from town as well as activities onto the reef for all ages. Stay a few nights at Heritage Lodge in the Daintree to bliss out and be enchanted by Mother Nature.

Waterfall Circuit Cairns

For a longer trip out from Cairns, chase those waterfalls on the waterfall circuit. This dips down into the Atherton Tablelands and its scattering of waterfalls, lakes and all-round tropical landscape. The loop is easily completed over a full day as long as you don't distract yourself with a long hike along the way.

• Total distance: 243km, 4 hours.
• Route: Cairns-Atherton-Millaa Millaa return.
• Highlights: Lake Barrine, Yungaburra, Millaa Millaa Waterfall, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls.
• Best time to drive: End of summer, which is when the heaviest rainfall gets the falls gushing.
• Things to do: Soaking up the views from the many viewpoints and marvelling at the waterfalls.
• Stay at: Cairns Harbour Lights.
• Eat at: Baba Curry in Atherton.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Waterfall Circuit Cairns road trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 243km, one-way Drive time: 4 hours

  Cairns round trip, via Atherton From Cairns, drive south-west along State Route 52. Keep your wits about you as you drive along the Gillies Highway, known for its dozens of bends. Have a snack at the serene Lake Barrine. Eat your fill in Yungaburra gorging on award-winning cheese, exceptionally brewed coffee and local tucker. Past Atherton, turn onto State Route 25 for the waterfall run. It takes you past Millaa Millaa, Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls, which are all a short walk from the main road. Drive back to Cairns via State Route 52.

Overlander's Way

This outback road trip is an official touring route that journeys from the beach through dramatic rugged landscapes. Along the way are encounters with Indigenous culture, native wildlife, dinosaur relics, old mining towns and rural farm life.

• Total distance: 906km, 9 hours, 50 minutes.
• Route: Townsville to Mount Isa.
• Highlights: Magnetic Island, Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek, Cloncurry and Mount Isa.
• Best time to drive: Year-round, though for relatively long days with low humidity, travel in spring.
• Things to do: Swim among shipwrecks on Magnetic Island, ghost tour at Charters Towers, see wonderfully preserved dinosaur fossils in Kronosaurus Korner, sink into an artesian bath in Julia Creek and explore the underground mines in Mount Isa. From here, you may even like to go deeper into Queensland to Boodjamulla National Park and Herbertvale Station.
• Stay at: The Royal Hotel in Hughenden, Julia Creek Hotel in Julia Creek and Mount Isa Caravan Park in Mount Isa.
  Eat at: FJ Holden Cafe in Hughenden, Corrina's Cafe and Bakery in Julia Creek and Buffs Club in Mount Isa.

• View a full three-day itinerary for the Overlander's Way road trip.

  Day	Route and itinerary
  Day 1 Distance: 383km Drive time: 4 hours, 4 minutes	Townsville to Hughenden With such a short day ahead, feel free to start this day with a side trip to Magnetic Island swimming among shipwrecks. Then, drive west on the A6. Stop in Charters Towers, an historic town with colonial buildings, a miner's cottage and views of the countryside from Towers Hill Lookout. Spare the time for Hughenden, particularly if you love a good hike. This town is surrounded by four national parks, each with its own character. Visit Porcupine Gorge National Park for cliffs and canyons, Blackbraes National Park for birdwatching, White Mountains National Park for challenging hikes among its unique sandstone formations and Moorinya National Park for desert and grassland settings. Spend the night in Hughenden.
  Day 2 Distance: 264km Drive time: 2 hours, 50 minutes	Hughenden to Julia Creek Start off exploring your pick of national park or Hughenden museum. Drive west along the A6 to Richmond home to the Kronosaurus Korner and its wide range of dinosaur fossils. While in Richmond, consider going fossil hunting or visiting the Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre to learn more about the town's history. Find yourself in Julia Creek early, so you can make the most of its Artesian Baths. They're a touch of luxury in an otherwise rugged setting. Spend the night in Julia Creek.
  Day 3 Distance: 258km Drive time: 2 hours, 50 minutes	Julia Creek to Mount Isa Enjoy a local feel in Julia Creek before hitting the A6 again. Stop by Cloncurry for a taste of outback life. Known as the home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, its John Flynn Place Museum tracks the service's iconic history. You can also visit Corella or East Leichhardt Dam for a pic and a spot of kayaking. Drive to Mount Isa, whose mining history can be seen in its Outback at Isa museum and Hard Times Mine landmark. Cap your day off with some food and a show at the Mines Rotary Rodeo. Spend the night at Mount Isa Caravan Park.

Brisbane to Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Here's one for the bushwalkers and the escapists. It's a short drive up north, but it's so rich in hiking trails and small towns that you'll need the weekend to return feeling complete.

The mountains loom in the distance and even though the drive follows the coast, you'll be so lost in the forest that you'll hardly realise it as you meander through the Hinterland Region and out to the beach.

• Total distance: 292km round trip, 4.5 hours.
• Route: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast, return.
• Highlights: Glass House Mountains Lookout, Landsborough, Flaxton Gardens and Mount Mee.
• Best time to drive: Autumn and winter offer the most pleasant weather for driving and hiking.
• Things to do: Take a helicopter flight over Glass House Mountains, visit Australia Zoo and go whale watching or swimming with humpback whales on the Sunshine Coast.
• Eat at: Sum Yung Guys, King Ludwigs German Restaurant & Bar or Fish on Parkyn on the Sunshine Coast.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Brisbane to Sunshine Coast Hinterland trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 292km Drive time: 4.5 hours

  Brisbane to Sunshine Coast to Brisbane From Brisbane, get onto the M3 then merge onto the A1 headed north to the Sunshine Coast. To get to the Glass House Mountains, take the exit toward Steve Irwin Way and follow the signs to Beerburrum and Glasshouse Mountains National Park. In the park, nab a bird's eye view from the Glass House Mountains Lookout or splurge on a helicopter flight. This departs from Caloundra further north so for this option, continue along the M1 and turn off at Caloundra Road. Next, continue along Steve Irwin Way to Landsborough, where you can visit the famous Australia Zoo and Landsborough Historical Museum or take a forested walk through Dularcha National Park. Drive to the Sunshine Coast for a seafood lunch and a marine activity or two. When the season is right, you can whale watch or swim with humpback whales. Head west for a relaxing wander through Flaxton Gardens and relish in the local vineyards' tipples (while drinking responsibly). Make sure you return via Woodford, known for its folk festival and through Mount Mee for even more spectacular views and forested walks. Head back to Brisbane.

Brisbane to Fraser Island

Spit up some sand at one of Australia's national treasures. Not for the faint-hearted, you'll need a good set of wheels to let loose on Fraser Island as it only permits 4WDs onto its shores. If you don't have one handy, you can park your car on the mainland and take the ferry over.

• Total distance: 807km round trip, 14 hours, 40 minutes.
• Route: Brisbane to Fraser Island, return.
• Highlights: Champagne Pools, shipwrecks and 75 Mile Beach. If you have time, swing by Bribie Island, Sunshine Coast, Eumundi or Maryborough.
• Best time to drive: Anytime is a good time to visit Fraser Island; however, if you wish to witness the whale migration, submit your leave for some time between May and November.
• Things to do: Book a spot on a whale watching cruise, tour the island by 4WD or polish the day off with a sunset cruise from Hervey Bay.
• Stay at: Kingfisher Bay Resort.
• Eat at: Sand Bar and Bistro or The Vinyard on Fraser Island.

• View a full two-day itinerary for the Brisbane to Fraser Island trip.

  Day	Route and itinerary
  Day 1 Distance: 403km Drive time: 7 hours, 20 minutes	Brisbane to Fraser Island Drive north from Brisbane onto the A1 bound for the Sunshine Coast. Take a break on the Sunshine Coast, Eummundi or Noosa to give your legs a stretch and grab a bite. Continue along the A1, turning off into Maryborough to connect onto Route 57. Turn off the 57 at Sunshine Acres for Hervey Bay and follow the signs for River Heads and Bingham to connect to the ferry onto Fraser Island. On the island, drive north to kick up that sand on 75 Mile Beach and cool your jets in the Champagne Pools. Make your way back down the island, popping by the iconic S.S. Maheno shipwreck, which sits right on the beach. Stay the night at Kingfisher Bay Resort.
  Day 2 Distance: 403km Drive time: 7 hours, 20 minutes	Brisbane to Fraser Island Start the morning on the beach visiting any hot spots you didn't make it to the day before. For a more relaxing day, you can pop onto a 4WD highlights tour that will take you right onto the beach. Drive back to Brisbane either via Bingham or if you'd prefer via Rainbow Beach/Inskip, which is connected to the southern end of Fraser Island by a barge.

Brisbane to The Lost World/Scenic Rim

Like something out of the Jurassic Park series, The Lost World trail is a giant step back in time. Ancient trees tower overhead, razorback mountains loom in the distance and the scuttling of creatures hidden among the foliage pricks your ears. The good news is that there aren't any man-eating dinosaurs in your midst; the bad news is there is no Chris Pratt either.

The Lost World offers horse riding, 4WDing, rock-pool fishing and dairy-farm experiences.

• Total distance: 340km round trip, 6 hours.
• Route: Brisbane to Lamington National Park to Tamborine Mountain to Brisbane.
• Highlights: Christmas Creek, Lamington National Park, Springbrook and Tamborine Mountain.
• Best time to drive: Travel during autumn or winter for optimal weather conditions. Spring to summer (September to December) is storm season and is best avoided.
• Things to do: Zipline guided tour or high ropes and flying fox adventure in Mount Tamborine.
• Eat at: Clancy's Irish Bar & Restaurant or Three Little Pigs Bar & Bistro in Tamborine Mountain.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Brisbane to Scenic Rim trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 340km Drive time: 6 hours

  Brisbane to Scenic Rim Region to Brisbane Get an early start from Brisbane, driving south along National Route 13 for Beaudesert, which is the top of the Scenic Rim Region and a wonderful first stop for a local bite and view of the razorback mountains. From here, continue south to Christmas Creek, where you'll discover local mini markets. Make your way into Lamington National Park and pick from any number of viewpoints, including Luke's Bluff, Pat's Bluff, Moonlight Crag, Morans Falls and Elabana Falls. Time permitting, you may choose to take one of its hikes. Head for Wanungara Lookout, and you'll have bragging rights for crossing the border into New South Wales. For a less-active activity, take the Tree Top Walkway, which is near O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat. Drive to Tamborine National Park via Canungra. For a scenic route, take National Lamington Park Road, which takes you past the Big Lamington and a number of vineyards for a taste of local food and drink. Hike or drive Tamborine Mountain and visit the glow worm caves or the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk before heading back to Brisbane.

Brisbane to Stanthorpe

Cool, calm and utterly indulgent, Stanthorpe has all the makings of a romantic weekend getaway – particularly if you're a foodie.

Just skirting the NSW border, this former tin miner's town has a unique microclimate that has transformed it into a land of wines, fruits, vegetables and microbreweries. Follow your nose as you hop from vineyard to vineyard, or follow your tastebuds towards artisan jams and preserves made with love. For a fun day out, go apple picking or simply settle into your abode and watch the world drift by.

• Total distance: 438km round trip, 5.5 hours.
• Route: Brisbane to Stanthorpe, return.
• Highlights: Peaks Crossing, Warwick and Mount Marley.
• Best time to drive: Cool in summer and cosy in winter, there's no poor time to make this trip.
• Things to do: Hop from artisan produce maker to artisan produce maker, eating your way around town.
• Eat at: ZEST Pastries, Granite Belt Brewery & Restaurant and O'Mara's in Stanthorpe.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Brisbane to Stanthorpe trip.

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  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 438km Drive time: 5.5 hours

  Brisbane to Stanthorpe to Brisbane Jump in the car and onto the M3 towards Warwick, where you can wander under palm trees while grabbing a roadside snack. Continue to Stanthorpe with a hungry belly, ready to sample the region's fruit and wine. A few top names worthy of your visit are Granite Belt Brewery and Ridgemill Estate. Work off your meal hiking up to Mount Marley Lookout, which has yawning views over the region. Keen for more? Head further south to Girraween National Park, where hiking pursuits and rock climbing adventure await. Drive back to Brisbane.

Brisbane to Byron Bay

Queensland is queen when it comes to blissful beach escapes, but if you feel the call to hop the border, Byron Bay is where it's at.

The sleepy coastal town is a rite of passage for surfers seeking killer waves, hippies looking to let their hair down and festival punters of the indie persuasion. Plus, anyone looking to jump on a trend can hightail it over for the budding food scene. This features fresh local seafood, organic ingredients and modern and contemporary fine dining.

• Total distance: 331km round trip, 3 hours 40 minutes.
• Route: Brisbane-Byron Bay return.
• Highlights: Gold Coast, Tweed Heads and Brunswick Heads.
• Best time to drive: Spring is wonderful in Byron Bay as it's warm and the crowds haven't yet arrived for festival season.
• Things to do: Horseriding in Byron Bay, sea kayaking in Byron Bay or learning to surf.
• Eat at: BayGer, Byron Bay Brewery and Bayleaf Cafe.

• View a full one-day itinerary for the Brisbane to Byron Bay trip.

  Day

  Route and itinerary

  Day 1 Distance: 331km Drive time: 3 hours 30 minutes

  Brisbane to Byron Bay to Brisbane Take the M3 then the M1 toward Sydney. On your way, opt to visit the Gold Coast for markets, beaches and shopping or Brunswick or Tweed Heads to catch a quick wave or order some fish and chips to eat on the beach. In Byron Bay, you can stay on shore, combing the promenade's stalls, hiking the coastal trails or horseriding. Otherwise, get on the water with your pick of marine activities. Popular options are sea kayaking and surfing. Have dinner in town at a cafe that sparks your fancy then head back to Brissy after capturing the sunset over the beach.

Latest Queensland travel deals

Need to book a hire car for your trip or a hotel along the way? See our latest offers available across Queensland.

Groupon

Up to 73% off getaways + Extra up to 20% off with code

Available for travel on select dates to Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Adelaide, Brisbane, Launceston, Newcastle, Noosa Heads, Cairns and much more. Maximum of $40 discount. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 30 Sep 2020

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Groupon

Up to 75% off local deals + Extra up to 20% off with code

Available on select dates and activities like spas, skydiving, hot air balloon flights, tours, whale watching, skywalks, classes and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and more. Maximum of $40 discount. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 30 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 31 Dec 2020

Adrenaline

Up to 63% off domestic activities

Available on select dates and activities like skydiving, hot air balloon flights, quad biking, off road v8 race buggies, scuba diving, whale watching, bridge climbing and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Melbourne and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 29 Sep 2020

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RedBalloon

Exclusive

Extra $10 off site-wide with code

Valid on all dates, including over Christmas, on activities like skydiving, quad biking, bridge climbing, canyoning, hot air ballooning, helicopter scenic flights, abseiling, scuba diving, cruises and more. Destinations include Darwin, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane and more. Minimum spend of $80 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Viator

Exclusive

8% off Australia activities

Available on select dates for activities including jet boat rides, sightseeing cruises, tours and wine tasting. Destinations include Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne, Cairns and more. Discount applied at checkout.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 4 Oct 2020

RedBalloon

Exclusive

Extra 10% off Australia activities with code

Valid on all dates on activities like skydiving, bridge climbing, canyoning, hot air ballooning, helicopter scenic flights, abseiling, cruises, tours and more. Minimum spend of $100 applies. Destinations include Darwin, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Europcar

Exclusive

$20 off Australia rentals

Available on rentals until 31 January 2021. Destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and more. Minimum spend of $200 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 31 Oct 2020

Kayak

Australia-wide flights from $69 each way

Available on select dates until December 2020 to Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Perth, Broome, Ballina and more. Sample fare is Melbourne-Sydney with Jetstar.

Last verified 24 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 2 Oct 2020

Lastminute.com.au

Up to 40% off pet friendly hotels

Available on stays until October 2020. Destinations include Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 17 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 31 Oct 2020

Lastminute.com.au

Up to 56% off Australia stays

Available on stays until December 2020. Destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Cairns, Brisbane, Townsville, Adelaide, Canberra and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 17 Sep 2020

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Lastminute.com.au

Up to 30% off last minute Australia stays

Available stays until October 2020 in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Canberra, Adelaide, Brisbane, Newcastle, Rockhampton and more.

Last verified 17 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 31 Oct 2020

P&O Cruises

Free room upgrade on sailings

Available on select cruises from December 2020 - September 2022. Destinations include Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Auckland, Norfolk Island and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 7 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 6 Oct 2020

Oaks Hotels & Resorts

Up to 20% off Australia stays + Extra 10% off with code

Available on select stays dates until 30 June 2021. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, Gladstone, Townsville, Adelaide, Glenelg and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 2 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 31 Oct 2020

Wotif

Up to 66% off Australia stays

Available on stays until May 2021 in Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sunshine Coast and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 31 Aug 2020

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Deal ends 31 Dec 2020

Airbnb

Gold Coast stays from $49/night

Available on select stay dates from June 2020 onward. Sample accommodation is in Surfers Paradise. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 5 Aug 2020

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Budget Car Rental

7th day free car hire

Available on rentals until 18 December 2020 in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth and more. Minimum rental period of 7 consecutive days. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 29 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 18 Dec 2020

Cudo

Up to 93% off things to do in Australia + Extra 10% off with code

Available on select dates and activities like classes, spas, getaways, dining experiences and more. Destinations include Sydney, Perth, Melbourne Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Gold Coast and more. Minimum spend of $49 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 29 Sep 2020

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Cheap Flights

Australia flights from $91 return

Available on select dates until December 2020 to Ballina, Sydney, Launceston, Cairns, Gold Coast, Hobart, Melbourne and more. Sample fare is Avalon-Adelaide with Jetstar.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 9 Oct 2020

RedBalloon

Exclusive

Brisbane Story Bridge climb from $139 + Extra $10 off with code

Available on select dates until 13 March 2021 for a 2-hour nighttime climb. Minimum spend of $80 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 9 Oct 2020

RedBalloon

Exclusive

Up to 20% off experiences for 2 + Extra 10% off with code

Available on select dates for experiences like tours, zoo and wildlife interactions, hot air balloon flights, skydiving and more. Destinations include Sydney, Hunter Valley, Melbourne, Brisbane and more. Minimum spend of $100 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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RedBalloon

Exclusive

Up to 60% off Australia activities + Extra 10% off with code

Available on select dates and activities like hot air balloon flights, tandem skydiving, getaways, driving experiences and more. Destinations include Sydney, Gold Coast, Cairns and more. Minimum spend of $100 required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 28 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 31 Dec 2020

Avis

$30 off 2+ days car hire

Available on rentals until 18 December 2020 in Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Hobart, Melbourne and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 23 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 18 Dec 2020

Luxury Escapes

Up to 61% off Australia holiday packages

Available on select dates until December 2021. Destinations include Adelaide, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, Sydney, Cairns, Canberra, Hunter Valley and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 23 Sep 2020

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Stayz

Australia beach holidays from $82/night

Available on select stay dates in 2020 and 2021. Destinations include Adelaide, Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and more. Sample price is for a stay at a private beach cottage in South Greenough, Western Australia. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 23 Sep 2020

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Experience Oz

Brisbane Story Bridge climb from $159

Available on select dates until 22 October 2021 for a 2-hour twilight climb. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 22 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 31 Oct 2020

Klook

Up to 10% off winery tours + Extra $10 off with code

Available on select dates until March 2021 when you spend a minimum of $100. Destinations include Hunter Valley, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, Hobart and Launceston. Applicable to new Klook members. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 8 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 31 Dec 2020

Avis

Free double upgrade on rentals

Available on rentals until 18 December 2020. Destinations include Hobart, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide and more. Minimum of 2 days rental required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 7 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 18 Dec 2020

Avis

4th day free + free upgrade on Australia car hires

Available on rentals until 18 December 2020 to Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide and more. Minimum 4 days rental required. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 7 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 18 Dec 2020

Skyscanner Car Hire

Brisbane car hire from $23

Valid for travel on select dates in 2020 with Avis, Budget, Sixt, Europcar and more. Destinations from Brisbane include Gold Coast, Moreton Island, Sunshine Coast and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 4 Sep 2020

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Deal ends 30 Sep 2020

Skydive Australia

Up to $20 off skydiving with code

Get $20 off per person when you book for 4 or more. Destinations include Sydney, Byron Bay, Newcastle, Cairns, Brisbane and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 2 Sep 2020

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Coupon code ends 30 Sep 2020

Adrenaline

Up to 40% off last-minute things to do across Australia

Available on select dates until December 2020 for activities including abseiling, hot air balloon flight, tour and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Melbourne and more.

Last verified 27 Aug 2020

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Deal ends 31 Dec 2020

G Adventures

Up to 15% off Australia and New Zealand tours

Available on select dates in 2020 and 2021. Destinations include Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, Cairns, Wellington, Auckland, Queenstown and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 27 Aug 2020

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Deal ends 30 Sep 2020

Expedia.com.au

Up to 32% off Australia getaways

Available on select 2020 dates when you book your flights and accommodation together. Destinations include Perth, Adelaide, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Hobart and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 27 Aug 2020

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Deal ends 31 Dec 2020

Expedia.com.au

Up to 38% off Australia hotels

Available on select 2020 dates and hotels. Destinations include Perth, Sydney, Cairns, Brisbane, Newcastle, Port Stephens and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 27 Aug 2020

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Deal ends 31 Dec 2020

Booking.com

Up to 15% off Australia stays

Available on stays until 4 January 2021 in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Adelaide and more.

Last verified 15 Jul 2020

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Deal ends 4 Jan 2021

Adrenaline

Up to 57% off things to do in the Gold Coast

Available for activities like driving experiences, hot air balloon experience, helicopter flights, jet ski and boat rides, surfing, skydiving and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 13 Jul 2020

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Adrenaline

Up to 54% off things to do in Brisbane

Available for activities like driving experiences, helicopter flights, jet boat rides, skydiving, kayaking, dinner cruises, cooking classes and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 7 Jul 2020

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Adrenaline

Up to 54% off helicopter ride experience

Valid on select dates. Destinations include Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Canberra and more.

Last verified 3 Jul 2020

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Adrenaline

Up to 25% off things to do in Cairns

Available for activities like driving experiences, helmet diving, helicopter flights, bungy jumping, water rafting, suba diving, skydiving and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 2 Jun 2020

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Adrenaline

Up to 30% off land adventures

Valid on select dates and adventures like quad biking, sandboarding, bridge climbing, canyoning, horse riding, abseiling and more. Destinations include Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified 2 Jun 2020

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