Head for the High Country
Escape for the weekend in the Hamlets, a string of villages along a pretty stretch of the New England Highway 90 minutes from Brisbane, near Toowoomba.
By Chelsea from @ameriaus
In search of an indulgent weekend escape?
Look no further than the High Country Hamlets, just 90-minutes’ from Brisbane or a quick scoot north of Toowoomba.
The Hamlets, as they’re known, are a string of villages nestled along a pretty stretch of the New England Highway, from Highfields to Cooyar. Two beautiful national parks, Crows Nest and Ravensbourne, fall within the footprint, which is also home to some pretty amazing restaurants, gift shops, wineries, and B&Bs.
See
The High Country Hamlets is a very beautiful, scenic ride for the senses – there’s no shortage of things to see.
Hit the forest walks in Crows Nest and Ravensbourne National Parks to discover scenic lookouts, creeks, and waterfalls in the area.
Speaking of Ravensbourne, you can’t leave this area without catching a sunrise at Gus Beutel Lookout.
Seeing those vibrant blue layers of hills and mountains gleaming in the early morning light is definitely worth getting out of bed for.
Taste
Meringandan Pub
You can’t go to the country without visiting a pub, and this is one of the best around. ‘The Dan’ is famous amongst the locals for their ridiculously oversized meals.
In fact, you might want to fast before visiting! Not only are the meals large, they’re very tasty too.
Oh, and don’t forget to say hello to the camels out the back before you go!
Rosalie House
It’s dinner time and you’re definitely going to want to make a reservation at Rosalie House Cellar Door Restaurant.
New to the region, Rosalie House has already made quite the name for itself thanks to a drool-worthy lunch/dinner menu. What better place to wine and dine than a vineyard?
Hot Tip: Book ahead and order the ‘Feed Me’ banquet – it’s a feast that really showcases what this pleasant restaurant overlooking the vines has to offer.
Do
Here are a few of our Hamlets ‘must dos’, while you’re filling in time between meals!
Crows Nest Soft Drinks
This iconic soft drink company has been operating for more than 100 years and has become somewhat of a tourist attraction.
The factory makes an extensive range of old-fashioned flavoured soda and syrups using Bundaberg sugar. The big sellers are sarsaparilla, ginger beer, and creaming soda.
Owners Murray & Tanya Rosenberg are more than happy to give a quick behind the scenes tour of the factory to visitors. For a more in-depth tour you’re best to call ahead.
Nolan's Block
Inside this beautifully restored building built in 1916 lies a host of boutique shops and gourmet eateries.
The centre home to six locally owned shops is centrally located along the New England Highway in Crows Nest.