Start your journey west, leaving city life behind as you make your way into the Western Downs. Stop in Toowoomba for a stroll through Queens Park or coffee at Picnic Point Café & Restaurant. Continue to Dalby stop for a bite to eat at Urban Paddock Café or learn about pioneering life at Pioneer Park Museum. Bunker down for the night at the beautiful, Jubri’s Hideaway.
The Ultimate Queensland Country to Outback Loop
Embark on the ultimate 10-day adventure through Queensland Country and the Outback. From the lush beauty of Carnarvon Gorge to the heart of Longreach, this loop offers a perfect mix of rugged landscapes, ancient rock art, and iconic Outback experiences. Explore charming country towns, cruise the Thomson River at sunset, and relax in luxury glamping under the stars. With historic pubs, tranquil artesian springs, and local legends at every turn, this journey will immerse you in the true spirit of Queensland’s vast, open heartland.
210 km
Day 1: Brisbane to Dalby
260 km
Day 2: Dalby to Roma
Hit the road early and cruise through quintessential country towns like Chinchilla and Miles. Stop at Chinchilla's Big Melon to take a selfie and the Miles Historical Village for a taste of life in the early 1900s. Arrive in Roma and head to Western Queensland Spirit, Outback Queensland's first craft distillery, featuring gin, vodka, rum and liqueurs. Visit The Big Rig for an evening light show that tells the tale of Australia’s oil and gas history. Enjoy a restful night at Roma Explorers Inn, just 2km from the heart of town and offering all the comforts you need after a day on the road.
340 km
Day 3: Roma to Carnarvon National Park
Fuel up in Roma before heading north. Drop into the Injune Visitor Information Centre for maps and walking tips, then continue to Carnarvon Gorge, nestled in the rugged Carnarvon National Park - check out our Ultimate Guide to Carnarvon Gorge here. Ease into your nature escape with a stroll to the Rock Pool for a splash or soak. Kick back and relax at Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Carnarvon Gorge or Sandstone Park Carnarvon Gorge for your stay.
Day 4: Explore Carnarvon Gorge
Set out on a guided walking tour with Central Queensland Nature Tours or Boobook Explore and uncover the wonders of Carnarvon Gorge. Wander through the lush Moss Garden, step inside the towering Amphitheatre, and marvel at the Art Gallery’s remarkable collection of over 2,000 ancient Aboriginal rock art stencils. Along the way, your guide will bring the gorge’s rich geological and cultural stories to life. Return to Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks – Carnarvon Gorge or Sandstone Park Carnarvon Gorge for another peaceful evening under the Outback stars.
300 km
Day 5: Carnarvon Gorge to Emerald
Leave the gorge behind and journey through the highlands to Emerald. Snap a photo with the world’s largest Van Gogh Sunflower painting and unwind with a stroll through the Botanic Gardens beside the Nogoa River. Stop by Pat’s Gems Fossicking Park for lunch and try your hand at uncovering a sparkling treasure or two. In the evening, check in to Emerald Central Hotel, where you can cool off by the pool and enjoy a relaxed dinner at the Centro Bar and Grill.
550 km
Day 6: Emerald to Longreach
It’s a longer stretch today, so leave early and enjoy the vast skies and classic Outback landscapes. Stop at Barcaldine, home of the Tree of Knowledge, before reaching Longreach, the beating heart of Outback Queensland. For a stay that’s equal parts luxury and authenticity, check in to Mitchell Grass Retreat, a glamping haven complete with air conditioning and all the creature comforts you’ll need.
Day 7: Discover Longreach
Spend the day discovering Longreach’s legendary stories, step inside the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, take a guided tour of the Qantas Founders Museum, or unwind with a sunset cruise along the Thomson River, capped off with a hearty Outback Aussie Tours dinner at Smithy's Outback Dinner and Show. The local family-owned local operators, and there 38 years of Outback passion, knowledge, and connections, makes for an unforgettable evening under the stars. After a busy day, return to your glamping retreat for a restful night of stargazing.
480 km
Day 8: Longreach to Mitchell
Start your journey eastward with a stop in quirky Augathella (home to the colourful Meat Ant Park) before rolling into Mitchell, a charming country town known for its soothing Great Artesian Spa, ideal for a rejuvenating dip. For the night, experience authentic Outback life with a stay at Francvillers Station, a working property spanning over 50,000 acres.
360 km
Day 9: Mitchell to Goondiwindi
Meander through quiet country towns like St George and Nindigully, where you’ll find one of Queensland’s oldest pubs pouring cold ones with plenty of character. Continue on to Goondiwindi, nestled on the banks of the Macintyre River and known for its tree-lined streets, charming boutiques, and the legendary tale of Gunsynd, the Goondiwindi Grey. Spend the night at Bronte House B&B, a beautifully preserved 1910 Queenslander, and wake to a hearty, home-cooked breakfast in the morning.
350 km
Day 10: Goondiwindi to Brisbane
Enjoy a leisurely drive back to Brisbane, detouring through Warwick for a final taste of country charm. Stop in Aratula for fresh produce or a coffee to wrap up your Outback adventure.
The Outback is Open and ready for you! For all your Outback Adventure needs, visit the Outback Queensland website: https://www.outbackqueensland.com.au/