cobb & co tourist drive

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222-224 Mount Crosby Road, North Tivoli Queensland 4305, Australia

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Southern Queensland Country Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waterways that run through these regions. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging.

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Cobb & Co Tourist Drive

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Description.

If you’re a real history buff, you are sure to enjoy this journey back in time to an era where stagecoaches were one of the main sources of transport.

This historic route celebrates the early mail routes that were awarded to Cobb & Co in Queensland, when on 1 January 1866 the mail service commenced from Brisbane to Ipswich before expanding to Grandchester, the Lockyer Valley and Toowoomba.

By following the wagon wheel directional signs, you too can take that same historic journey, which follows the railway line and original route coach drivers would have taken more than 150 years ago.

The staging posts in Forest Hill and Gatton are both inscribed with historical dates and information, and are places where tourists can stop for food, refreshments and amenities.

If afterwards you are still wishing to take in the scenery, be sure to head to the nearby Spring Bluff Railway Station.

If you’re in no hurry, why not stop for a coffee and cake in one of the townships before visiting the heritage-listed railway station or take a picnic to enjoy in the picturesque grounds. During spring, the beautifully landscaped gardens at Spring Bluff Railway Station attract plenty of people who are keen to snap the blossoming flowers and the 150-year-old tracks.

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Cobb & Co Tourist Drive – Homegrown Tales Of The West

Dirt, dust, flies, The pounding horse’s hooves, the snap of the driver’s leather whip as it cracks in the still outback air. The Cobb & CO stagecoach plies the country by-ways of the Lockyer Valley delivering its precious cargo of mail and passengers along what is known as the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive.

Established in Melbourne, Victoria in 1853 at the height of the Victorian gold rush, four newly arrived Americans Freeman Cobb, John Murray Peck, James Swanton and John B. Lamber imported several US-built horse drawn wagons and stagecoaches and set up the original Cobb & Co in Australia.

In 1865 Cobb & Co arrived in Queensland. The Cobb & Co Tourist Drive is a celebration of the first mail route awarded to Cobb & Co in Queensland where on the 1 st of January 1866 the mail service got down to business travelling between Brisbane and Ipswich via the Lockyer Valley. Passengers and mail heading further West were taken from Ipswich to Grandchester (Queensland’s oldest railway station) by train and then by another Cobb & Co coach terminating their journey in Toowoomba.

Travel by Cobb & Co coach sounds romantic but in real life it was very different. Many passengers along with luggage, freight and mail jammed into the stagecoach as it travelled the Ipswich to Gatton route.

Today we’ll travel the same scenic route in our modern air-conditioned vehicles. There will be opportunities to stop and grab a “cuppa” while exploring Historical museums and villages, be invited in to look over early pioneer houses and walk in the footsteps of the early explorer and botanist Allan Cunningham as he discovered and named the vast Laidley Plains.

Follow the “wagon wheel” directional signs and make the same journey that Cobb & Co made over 150 years ago from Ipswich to Gatton – stopping at Walloon, Rosewood (staging post), Grandchester, Laidley, Forest Hill (staging post) and Gatton (staging post). Just as it was back in those early pioneering days, modern day road trippers also require the occasional stop in their expeditions. Three designated Staging Posts were nominated along the route being situated at convenient locations in Rosewood, Forest Hill, and Gatton. These Staging Posts were created where services such as toilets, food and drinks were available and accessible 7 days a week.

🔥Tip: With an early start from Brisbane the Queens Park Café – Ipswich opens at 8am where we enjoyed a hot breakfast and coffee to kick off our road trip. Queens Park is a fantastic day trip destination for all the family. If you want to explore this brilliant family day trip location, click on my Blog link: 10 Amazing Things You Would Not Have Guessed About Queens Park Ipswich.

Our journey begins at the Queens Park Cafe, Ipswich – the alternate starting point is the Workshops Rail Museum – Ipswich, wind you way west through the outer suburbs of Leichhardt and Wulkuraka onto Walloon.

At Walloon , the first stop on Queensland’s first railway line, there are several reminders of the town’s beginnings. Walloon has a number of heritage buildings lining the streets making them well worth a look. These include the Walloon Saloon, where the first hotel was built in 1877 as a favoured watering hole for weary travelers, and also built in 1877 the former school which is now the town’s community center.

We stopped here for a while taking a look at Henry Lawson Bicentennial Park . Have a look-see at the haunting memorial to the lost “Babies of Walloon” and Henry Lawson’s touching poem carved into the railway sleepers.

This park is also an impressive place take a break or have a picnic, with electric BBQ’s, toilets and under-cover tables and seating or if the kids are with you the playground will keep them amused.

Continue to Rosewood. As the sign says – Welcome to Rosewood Staging Post (Cobb & Co Heritage Park) . Just like in the days of Cobb & Co coaches, when they stopped to rest and water their horses, this is where the modern day traveller can stop, stretch your legs, refresh, have a bite to eat and take the time to further explore Rosewood.

You are immediately greeted with a Cobb & Co Stage Coach, which is in pristine condition, on display just set back from the main road. This is a tremendous, little park to come and see. Plenty of street parking available, toilets and undercover seating with another playground for the younger ones to explore.

The Rosewood Staging Post is full of history. Give the Park the once over, read about it, listen to the history of Rosewood and the Cobb & Co story, celebrating the first mail route awarded in Queensland.

Next is Grandchester, located about 14 kilometres west of Rosewood. Previously known as Bigge’s Camp, named after pastoralist & parliamentarian, Francis Bigge, it was renamed Grandchester in the mid 1860’s and was the terminus for Queensland’s first railway line. The Queensland Governor of the time felt that a place of such an historical event should have a more impressive name and thus renamed the site Grandchester.

Laidley is a few kilometres off the Cobb & Co Tourist drive, the turn off to the town is well sign posted. Laidley was once another popular spot for travellers and the Cobb & Co teamsters. It is still very popular with road trippers today. You must visit the Das Neumann House Museum (free entry) and try the Devonshire Tea (scones, jam and cream) at Annie’s place.

🔥Tip: Laidley is a very friendly town steeped in local history and folklore. You could spend many hours exploring the experiences that can be unearthed. For all the extra information on the Lockyer Valleys second largest town – click on my travel Blog: Make The Most Of Your Country Road Trip To Laidley In The Lockyer Valley

Along the route we pass by the scenic Lake Dyer, Forest Hill and then in the distance we reach our final stop on our ROAD TRIP – Gatton. The village of Gatton was first gazette in 1855 and has now become the largest town and business centre in the Lockyer Valley. Noted as an RV friendly town with a 48-hour rest area, Gatton also offers many and diverse cafes, hotels and restaurants serving a great range of coffees, food and drinks. A hospital, fuel stations and several supermarkets can also be found in town.

Just out of town is the Gatton Staging Post , situated within the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre on Lake Apex drive. You will find the Staging Post at the entrance to the Cultural Centre. Add in the extensive views of Lake Apex, this air-conditioned purpose-built facility is truly worthy of being a place for travelers to relax, eat and refresh.

Besides the café, the building prides itself on being the area’s Visitor Information Centre, home to a huge range of maps, souvenirs & local knowledge. Discuss your travel plans with the very friendly staff to ensure you have a perfect day while exploring the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive and Lockyer Valley.

While you are there, don’t miss visiting the Art Gallery, Library (free entry) and the very extensive machinery display at the Queensland Transport Museum (entry fees apply).

🔥Tip: It is important, particularly when touring outback areas to check at each visitor centre for up-to-date information on road conditions, opening and closing times of the places that you are visiting as well as any permits or entry fees that might be required. Lockyer Valley Visitor Information Centre (click here)

The Cobb & Co Tourist Drive is a scenic route between Ipswich and Toowoomba via the Lockyer Valley. Imagine being a part of those early pioneering days as your stagecoach ploughed along lonely bush tracks just trying to reach your destination in one piece. Those staging posts would have been a very welcome sight, like an oasis in the desert. Today we will be in the air-conditioned comfort of our modern motor cars, what a difference, but we can still relive those Colonial by-gone days. This is a must-do trip for all adventure-seekers and a welcome addition to my list / category – Discover South East Queensland – travel Blogs.

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3 thoughts on “ cobb & co tourist drive – homegrown tales of the west ”.

In Grandchester School Road I had my hobby farm, loved to explore this area including T.woomba!

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• Pingback: Cobb & Co Tourist Drive – Homegrown Tales Of The West – Bloecker Blog

It is a beautiful area to explore. Grandchester has so much history. The area is so full of surprises. I have included the link to Scottys Garage, one incredible place. https://roadtripn.blog/2018/03/12/the-barn-and-scottys-garage-lockyer-valley-road-trip/

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COBB and CO Tourist Drive, QLD Australia

Ipswich to Toowoomba, Queensland Australia

• Featured Trip Guides

Created by Inviting Thoughts - May 22nd 2018

On Jan 1st 1866 the first Cobb & Co mail service in Queensland commenced, from Brisbane to Ipswich. Passengers and mail heading further west were taken from Ipswich to Grandchester by train and than another Cobb & Co coach for the rest of the journey to Toowoomba. Up to 40 horses and six staff were needed for an average days journey of about 80km. Teams of horses were changed at depots spaced every 25 to 40 kilometres along the routes (Staging Posts).

North St, QLD, AU

The Workshops Rail Museum

Walloon, Queensland, Australia

Rosewood, Queensland, Australia

Rosewood Laidley Road,, QLD, AU

Grandchester Railway Station

Laidley, Queensland, Australia

Patrick Street, QLD, AU

Das Neumann Haus Museum

Forest Hill, Queensland, Australia

40 Victoria St, QLD, AU

38 william street forest hill queensland|forest hill, QLD, AU

Forest Hill Hotel

Gordon Street, QLD, AU

Forest Hill War Memorial

warrego highway lawes queensland|lawes gatton queensland|gatton, QLD, AU

University of Queensland Gatton Campus

Gatton, Queensland, Australia

34 Lake Apex Drive, QLD, AU

Queensland Transport Museum located in the Lockyer Valley

34 Lake Apex Dr, QLD, AU

Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre

Helidon, Queensland, Australia

Helidon railway station

7828 Warrego Highway, QLD, AU

Helidon Mineral Spa Resort

Click to discover a great deal!

McCormack Drive, QLD, AU

Spring Bluff Railway Station

27 Lindsay St, Toowoomba, QLD, AU

Cobb+Co Museum

Banner Photo Credit: Cobb+Co Museum

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Cobb and Co Tourist Drive

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Cobb and Co Tourist Drive - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• Visitor Information

Cobb & Co Tourist Drive

• Destinations

The Cobb & Co Tourist Drive follows the railway line and the original Cobb & Co route between Ipswich and Toowoomba, covering a distance of about 130 kilometres.

The main focus of the tourist drive is the history of the Cobb & Co mail route and Queensland’s first railway main line.

From Ipswich to Toowoomba

The tourist route starts at Ipswich, then continues west through Walloon, Rosewood, Grandchester, Laidley, Gatton, Murphys Creek, Spring Bluff, and finishing in Toowoomba.

Start of Tourist Drive

The start of the drive can be found travelling west along the Warrego Hwy on approach to the Mt Crosby Rd exit to Tivoli. At the roundabout off the exit, continue straight towards Tivoli and Ipswich Central. Follow Mt Cosby Rd for around 3.6 kilometres to Downs St. Mt Cosby Rd changes names a couple of times but follow straight all the way.

The Workshops Rail Museum

Ipswich CBD

From here, head back up Delacy St and turn right onto Downs St. Follow Downs St for around 1.4 kilometres to a roundabout on Pine St. Head to the right and cross over the bridge into the CBD of Ipswich.

Take the first left immediately after crossing the bridge to take you to the waterfront, turn left at the roundabout onto Bremer St. Follow for about 500 metres to turn right into a parking area to access the River Heart Parklands.

Just before the car park, turn left into Ellenborough St (turn right if coming back out of the car park). 300 metres ahead on the corner of Brisbane Street and Ellenborough Street is St Paul’s Anglican Church. St Paul’s is a heritage-listed church built in 1855.

Brisbane Street is a one-way street heading in the wrong direction. Turn right onto East Street and the next right onto Limestone Street. Alternatively, you can cross Brisbane Street and turn right on Limestone Street when coming up Ellenborough Street.

To head out of the Ipswich CBD, follow Limestone Street until it comes to cross Brisbane Street. Turn left into Brisbane Street to follow the brown sign for Cobb & Co Tourist Drive.

Follow Brisbane Street, which becomes Old Toowoomba Road, for about 1.8km to a roundabout. Turn right heading towards Rosewood and follow for 9.5km to Walloon.

Walloon is the first town out of Ipswich along the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive. It is only 15 minutes out but is a quieter spot to stop if you are leaving the busy Ipswich CBD.

Here you can find the Henry Lawson Bicentennial Park, an ideal spot if you want to stop at a park with a playground to occupy the kids for a bit. The park is also a memorial to the lost Babies of Walloon, commemorating the tragic drowning of two school children at a local waterhole.

The drowning is the subject of a poem, “The Babies of Walloon”, by Henry Lawson, hence the name of the park. The poem is carved into railway sleepers around the memorial and there is a bronze statue of the two children who drowned.

The park has sheltered BBQs and toilets, as well as the important playground for the kids, including a BMX track and skate park.

Rosewood Staging Post

Continue west along Karrabin Rosewood Rd for about 8 kilometres to reach Rosewood, where the first of three staging posts along the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive is located. Turn left at the roundabout at John Street to head into the main street at Rosewood. The Rosewood Staging Post is on the corner of Williams St about 650 metres on the left.

The staging post has a Cobb & Co stage coach on display with information about Cobb & Co and points of interest in Rosewood. At the far end of the park is a playground for small kids and a Queensland Bottle Tree with information about it.

The Old Jail was built in 1908 and placed in the Cobb & Co Heritage Park in 2015 for its second relocation, first moved in 1987 to make way for a new police station.

For some additional railway history, take a quick detour to Kunkala, The Rosewood Railway. The railway museum is a a few kilometres north of Rosewood on the Scenic Rim Tourist Drive 16, which intersects with Cobb & Co Tourist Drive in Rosewood.

Grandchester formerly known as Bigges Camp

Leave Rosewood towards Grandchester on Lanefield Road which becomes Rosewood Laidley Rd. Grandchester is just over 12 kilometres to the west but was first known as Bigges Camp, a stopping point for Cobb & Co and travellers heading west towards Gatton and Toowoomba.

Laidley and Lake Dyer

From Grandchester, continue west along Rosewood Laidley Road for about 8km to reach Laidley.

Turn north into main township of Laidley

Forest Hill Staging Post

Gatton staging post.

Murphys Creek

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Cobb & Co Tourist Drive

No matter the direction you come to Toowoomba from, the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive is the best place to start your tour of the Garden City and we recommend it is the first on your to-do list. To learn more about Cobb & Co Tourist Drive, check out this website Cobb & Co Tourist Drive .

Outback Towns and Drives

Find a town, find a drive itinerary, cobb and co way, surat to surat, duration: 1 days / 76km.

You’re invited to relive the history of an Australian icon, with a journey along the Cobb & Co Way. This 76 kilometres journey provides a wonderful insight into the lifestyle of early settlers and the journey of passengers using the coach service. The last Cobb & Co mail service in Australia travelled from Surat to Yuleba on 14 August 1924.

Known as Tourist Drive Number Seven, please check in with the friendly Visitor Information Centre staff for updated road conditions.

For an insight into the history of the Cobb & Co Coach Service and its association with Surat, be sure to stop in at Surat’s Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum on the corner of Burrowes and Cordelia Street.

Travel north along the Carnarvon Highway toward Roma. In 2.2 kilometre, turn right onto Frogmoor Road. In 2.6 kilometres stop in to see the Corduroys on the left. Continue on the Yuleba – Surat road stopping at all the sites along the way.

This drive includes both sealed and unsealed sections of the road. Sections of this road may not be suitable for caravans.

The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

New tourist brochure guides visitors along the historic cobb and co tourist drive.

Published Tuesday, 24 August, 2010 at 10:25 AM

Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading The Honourable Peter Lawlor

+61 7 3818 9600

Cobb & Co Tourist Drive in SE Queensland

Cobb & co tourist dive.

Experience the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive in South East Queensland, this is the route that travellers aboard a Cobb & Co Coach travelled over 140 years ago. Today modern day travellers can experience this historical 1860’s Royal Mail coach route on an enjoyable and leisurely self-drive day trip from Ipswich on the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive.

Pick up a map from Lake Apex Visitor Information Centre in Gatton or the Plainland Visitor Information Centre at the Travel Centre on the Warrego Hwy in Plainland and then follow the distinctive Wagon Wheel signs to find your way.

Staging Posts are located along the route where you can stop 7 days a week for public toilet facilities and refreshments, Cobb & Co passengers needed occasional stops along this journey just as we do today and the designated and sign posted ‘Staging Posts’ provide this. Stop at the three locations in Rosewood, Forest Hill and Gatton for food, drink and public toilets.

Lockyer Valley

Head true west for about an hour from Ipswich into the region known as “Australia’s Salad Bowl”, the Lockyer Valley.

Possessing some of the most fertile soil in the world, the Lockyer Valley has a rich natural beauty and interesting history.

Take the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive that follows the railway line and original road from Ipswich to Toowoomba, traversing the Lockyer Valley. You will see heritage-listed pubs and hotels constructed as resting points for travellers heading west.

Turn off onto Murphys Creek Road and drive into the beautiful town of Murphys Creek. Stop at Jessie’s Cottage, an original pioneering-era house museum. Then continue along Murphy’s Creek Road to Spring Bluff Historic Railway Station. This heritage-listed venue features beautiful landscaped gardens, spectacular valley views and excellent public picnic facilities.

From Spring Bluff, loop back to the Lockyer Valley via Toowoomba, considering the efforts of past workers constructing nine tunnels and 47 bridges to bring the railway up the range.

This is just one of the tourist drives available in this area. For more information see  Lockyer Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Springfield Lakes Hotel  Accommodation is 30-minutes from Ipswich where you can commence your Cobb & Co Drive, with free parking and onsite bar and restaurant. Book your  4.5 star Accommodation in Springfield Lakes .

Cobb and Co Way

TOURIST DRIVE 7

You’re invited to relive the history of an Australian icon, with a journey along the Cobb & Co Way. This 76km journey provides a wonderful insight into the lifestyle of early settlers and the journey of passengers using the coach service. The last Cobb & Co mail service in Australia travelled from Surat to Yuleba on 14 August 1924.

START: SURAT END: YULEBA TOTAL DRIVING DISTANCE: 76KM ALLOW: A FEW HOURS

• For an insight into the history of the Cobb & Co Coach Service and its association with Surat, be sure to stop in at Surat’s Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum on the corner of Burrowes and Cordelia Street.
• Travel north along the Carnarvon Highway toward Roma. In 2.2km, turn right onto Frogmoor Road. In 2.6km stop in to see the Corduroys on the left.
• Continue on Frogmoor Road for 5.4km. Stop in to see the historic site of Frogmoor.
• Continue for 1.2km, turn right at the intersection onto the Yuleba-Surat Road. In 10.9km stop to see the historic site of Bainbilla Changing Station.
• From Bainbilla Changing Station, travel 3.8km north to see ‘Sunnybank’ historic site.
• Continue on Yuleba – Surat Road.
• Turn right onto Roma – Condamine Road in 1.7km then turn left onto the Yuleba – Surat Road. In 4km, see ‘Duffy’s Camp’ historic site.
• Travel a further 3.8km and stop to see historic site of Waldegrave Changing Station.
• Continue on Yuleba – Surat Road for 4.1km. On the right you can see Corduroys still at their original site.
• As you continue toward Yuleba, in 2.4km stop in to read the fascinating history of ‘Wilbah’ on your left.
• Continue toward Yuleba for 8.3km. On the left stop and enjoy The Maryanne – a rock hunter’s paradise!
• Just past The Maryanne in 700m on the left is the Native Wells. Enjoy a break under the shelter and experience this region’s Indigenous history.
• Continue along the Yuleba – Surat Road for 2.7km to see the site of ‘Pleasant Fields’.
• Continue for a further 5km and stop in to learn about ‘Wilderness’ and its past with cattle duffers.
• In 6.2km you will veer right onto Stephenson Street. In 800m at the intersection turn left onto Perry Street.
• Be sure to stop and visit the Cobb & Co Park on the corner of the Warrego Highway and Perry Street, Yuleba.

For detailed information and a comprehensive map of the Cobb & Co Way, please see the friendly staff and volunteers at any one of the region’s Visitor Information Centres.

This drive includes both sealed and unsealed sections of the road. Sections of this road may not be suitable for caravans.

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Cobb+Co Museum

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Cobb & Co Tourist Drive – Homegrown Tales Of The West

• February 1, 2023

Dirt, dust, flies, The pounding horse’s hooves, the snap of the driver’s leather whip as The Cobb & CO stagecoach plies the country by-ways of the … Cobb & Co Tourist Drive – Homegrown Tales Of The West

Great website and in this area we had our Hobby Farm: Grandchester!

Cobb and Co Tourist Drive

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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Cobb and Co Tourist Drive - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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3 Of The Best Short Self-Drive Road Trips To Take From Brisbane

Brisbane is the perfect starting place for a Queensland road trip. You don’t have to travel far from the city to see the best the region has to offer. Within a few hours’ drive, you can experience picture-perfect lakes, soaring peaks, rainforests, and historical attractions.

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To help you plan the perfect weekend campervan adventure, we’ve created a guide to the three best short Brisbane road trip itineraries. Showcasing some of the Sunshine Capital’s most spectacular sites and iconic self-drive tours, this is an adventure you will remember for a lifetime! Here’s what we’ll go over:

When is the best time to travel in Queensland?

What do you need to pack for a road trip from brisbane, where to find britz campervan hire brisbane.

The Scenic Rim 

Fraser Island and Rainbow Beach

The cobb & co tourist drive, ready to book your road trip from brisbane.

Let’s dive in.

Queensland is known for its subtropical climate and warm weather nearly all year round.  Brisbane weather follows suit, with summer temperatures ranging from 21-29°C and winter temperatures dropping to a temperate 15-25°C.

Thanks to the stunningly great weather, the Christmas holidays (December-January) tend to be quite busy and crowded. If you’re trying to avoid the crowds, it can be good to travel out of this peak holiday season. Travelling during winter between June and August is also a great way to avoid the humid tropical summer days.

With such a diversity of things to do in Queensland, Australia, it is also worthwhile looking at the  seasonal nature and wildlife calendar . This calendar has it all, whether you want to catch turtle season or see the whales doing their annual migration. Some of the top seasonal and wildlife events include:

Summer in Queensland

Summer in Australia runs between December and February. These months are turtle season and the perfect chance to watch hatchlings crawl across the beach. Summer is also a great time to see the few remaining maternity sites of wild Australian bats in Queensland.

Autumn in Queensland

Autumn sets in between March and May. The cooler temperatures signal the arrival of newborn koalas and are a great time to see manta rays in the wild.

Winter in Queensland

Between June and August, the temperatures reach their lowest, and with it comes whale season in full force. Winter is the perfect time for a coastal road trip to try and spot a few of the 25,000 whales en route to Antarctica.

Spring in Queensland

From September to November, the weather starts to warm and the wildflowers bloom! Spring is the perfect time for photographers to capture the vivid purples of the jacaranda trees.

One of the allures of van travel is the storage options. Being able to unpack your suitcase as you travel around is the ultimate luxury. However, space is limited, so be mindful of this when packing for your campervan trip. The key to successfully packing for your adventures is doing your research and packing an assortment of essentials. Before you leave, be sure to pack must-haves, including:

• Medical supplies
• Weather-appropriate clothing and footwear

Queensland can be warm regardless of the time of the year you plan on visiting. So irrespective of the season, come prepared for warmer weather. Pack a variety of SunSmart protection , including:

It is also wise to pack a few light layers when temperatures dip at night. Before you pick up your campervan, we recommend you download the free thl Roadtrip App . This app comes with video walkthroughs of the van. This will help ensure you don’t overpack with any items that already come with the van!

Once you have picked up your campervan, pick up a few grocery essentials from a local supermarket. Want to stick to a budget? Stock up on food supplies with a long shelf life, such as pasta, rice, nuts, seeds, and lentils.

Check out our complete  campervan packing list guide for more information on what to pack for a campervan trip.

The  Britz Brisbane branch is located at 87 Bancroft Road, Pinkenbaa. This is only a short drive from the Brisbane airport. The Brisbane branch is open Monday-Saturday, 9am-3.30pm, with Sunday opening times varying throughout the year.

If you are driving, you can park safely in the secure long-term parking at Andrew’s Airport Parking . From here, it is a short 8.5km Uber or taxi from the airport to the branch for pick up.

For more information on pick-up and the various dropoff, check out our guide to  what to expect at pick up and express return pack options .

The Scenic Rim

Distance: 255km

Travel time: 3 days

You can drive this gorgeous self-driving route in a few hours, but why rush? Slow down and appreciate the beauty of the region. Stop in the quaint country towns, marvel at the scenery and admire the natural attractions. Roll down the windows as you wind your way along with one of Brisbane's most scenic road trips.

Day 1: Brisbane to Beaudesert

To begin your trip from Brisbane, head 34km along the M3 to Beenleigh and then traverse inland on Route 90 to the picturesque Tamborine Mountain . Drink in the magnificent scenery of the volcanic region and Lamington National Park , including the pretty village of Canungra. Then jump back onto Route 90 for your 25km drive towards Beaudesert.

Located in the heart of the scenic rim, Beaudesert is home to a range of laid-back, off-the-beaten-path experiences. A few of our favourites include:

Meebun Recreation Area

• Meebun  is an excellent place to take a break with picnic tables, shelters and barbecues.

Lake Wyaralong

• Lake Wyaralong  is a natural theme park perfect for paddling or enjoying mountain bike trails.

Where to stay:   Beaudesert Caravan & Tourist Park

Day 2: Beaudesert to Aratula

Begin day two by heading west for around 28km to the bustling agricultural town of Boonah. Known for its tasty local produce and talented artisans, it’s an ideal base for boating, fishing, scenic walks and camping. Boonah is also home to a local airfield that offers thrilling glider and light aircraft flight experiences .

Once you are ready, make your way to the quaint little town of Cunningham Highway town of Aratula. Here you will find plenty of arts and crafts stores to browse and an antique shop for those one-of-a-kind items. Also, try one of the region’s trademark chocolate eclairs! Some of our favourites in this region include:

• Aratula Cafe and Antiques
• Aratula Markets
• Aratula roadhouse

Where to stay:   Aratula Village, Scenic Tim Motel and Caravan Park

Day 3: Aratula to Brisbane

From Aratula, take a 10km side trip south to  Moogerah Peaks and Main Range National Parks . While you’re here, don’t miss a chance to check out Lakes Moogerah and Maroon. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the lakes and the opportunity to walk across the 219m long and 38m high Moogerah Dam wall at Haigh Park.

Heading north along the Cunningham Highway, stop at Barton’s Rose Farm in Kalbar. Here you can enjoy a Devonshire tea and grab a bouquet of roses to liven up the campervan. Just 20km north is the  Summer Land Camel Farm to try some camel milk or cheese. If you are looking for a thrill, head 17km north to the Willowbank Raceway . The region’s leading drag racing facility offers a year-round program of drag racing entertainment. From Willowbank, it’s a leisurely 50km drive back to Brisbane.

Where to stay: Try your hand at national park camping at one of the many parks along the route. Check booking requirements, options and facilities at the  Queensland National Parks booking service.

After you have completed your scenic rim loop, it is time to return your campervan to the  Britz Brisbane branch.

Distance: 475km

Stoping at some of Australia’s most revered east coast destinations, this is one of the most popular driving holidays from Brisbane for a good reason! This iconic coastal road trip takes advantage of Queensland’s gorgeous coastline and year-long beach weather. Wind your way from Brisbane up to the seaside village of  Rainbow Beach on this three-day getaway.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

From Brisbane, head 105km to the Sunshine Coast along the M1 highway. Make a stop between Beerwah and Beerburrum to admire the gorgeous volcanic  Glasshouse Mountains that tower over the region. Take your time cruising up the coast from Caloundra to Cooroy, taking the coastal route to visit the seaside towns. Some of our favourite stops include:

Coolum Beach

Stop at  Coolum Beach to admire the second largest rock in the world; Mt Coolum, and enjoy laid-back eateries and seasonal twilight markets.

Peregian Beach

Soak up the ambience of this little beachside village. Pick up local produce at the markets, cook up a feast in your campervan and relax by Peregian Beach .

Noosa Heads

Noosa  is the perfect combo of laid-back and close to the action. Swim in rock pools, hike local trails and eat at the eateries. There is not a shortage of things to do in this town!

Where to stay: Noosa River Holiday Park

Day 2: Noosa to Rainbow Beach

From Noosa, head inland to Cooroy or backtrack slightly to visit the sleepy little town of Eumundi. This inland town is home to the famous markets, which are a must-do on the weekend! Once you have sampled the local flavours, continue 45km north towards the former gold rush town of Gympie. Check out the  Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum to peek into what life was like in the gold rush era.

Once you have finished, take the Tin Can Bay Road approximately 73km towards Rainbow Beach to drive through the gorgeous Toolara State Forest. Stop here to check out the abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, yellow-tailed black cockatoos and the occasional wild brumby.

Once you have passed through the Great Sandy National Park, you’ll arrive at Rainbow Beach. This iconic beach is the perfect place to rest and unwind, enjoying expansive views across the Great Sandy Strait towards Fraser Island . Some of our favourite things to do in Rainbow Beach include:

See the coloured sands

The  Coloured Sands is an earthy rainbow formed as the different colours of eroded cliffs mix together. Located in the Cooloola Recreation Area, you can enjoy a beautiful walk to marvel at this natural wonder.

Find the rainbow stairs

In 2018, a set of stairs in Rainbow Beach were colourfully painted in honour of the Pride House Commonwealth Games. This rainbow staircase is the perfect place to grab a colourful snap!

Where to stay: Grab a campsite at Rainbow Beach Holiday Village .

Day 3: Rainbow Beach to Brisbane 

Save time for a day trip over to the heritage-listed Fraser Island . The Island is best accessed from Inskip Point as it is 4WD only. Fraser Island is the jewel of the region, featuring freshwater lakes, towering forests and expansive, untamed beaches. Using a 4WD to get around, take in all the island's natural beauty.

If you are interested in hiring a 4WD for Fraser Island, we recommend you book with our trusted partner  Rainbow Beach Adventure Centre 4wd Hire (located on Rainbow Beach). As a Britz customer, you can get a 10% discount with the promo code: #ADVENT4WD10.

From Rainbow Beach, make the return trip to Brisbane. Feeling peckish? Call in at sleepy  Tin Can Bay for fish and chips before starting your 230km journey home.

If you want to extend your trip, there are BIG4 holiday parks at S andstone Point , Caloundra , Maroochydore , and  Tewantin with modern amenities. Drop your campervan off at  Britz Brisbane when you pull back into Brisbane.

Distance: 315km

On 1 January 1866, the first  Cobb & Co mail service in Queensland commenced, from Brisbane to Ipswich. Passengers heading further west took a train from Ipswich to Grandchester, then continued on another Cobb & Co coach to Toowoomba.

Retrace this historic route with all the modern conveniences of a motorhome on the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive. As one of the shorter road trips from Brisbane, it is the perfect weekend adventure. Want a longer trip? This one or two-day trip is a great addition to a longer Queensland road trip itinerary.

Day 1: Brisbane to Toowoomba

To start your journey from Brisbane, drive 40km southwest to Ipswich. Keep an eye out for the distinctive coach wheel signs that will guide you to Toowoomba. If you want to honour the history of this route, plan your rest stops around the historic rest stops the Cobb & Co’s passengers would have taken. There are three staging posts along the route in Rosewood, Forest Hill, and Gatton, where toilets and refreshments are available.

Some highlights include Walloon, the first stop on Queensland’s first railway. This area was once known as ‘Ten Mile Peg’ for its approximate distance from Ipswich’s old track. About 23km along the Rosewood-Laidley Road, you’ll find Grandchester - the first terminus on the railway. Nearby is Queensland’s first and oldest railway dam. The dam was built in 1894 to ensure a reliable water supply for the steam locomotives. Make a stop at the historic  Grandchester Steam Sawmill and the Grandchester Stage Coach Company.

Where to stay:   Toowoomba Motor Village

Day 2: Toowoomba to Brisbane

From Grandchester, head towards Gatton for the morning. Known as ‘Australia’s salad bowl’, Gatton is a great place to grab a bite to eat. With a variety of restaurants, cafes and hotels to choose from, there is sure to be something that takes your fancy.

Once you have had your fill, continue onto beautiful Toowoomba - the capital of the Darling Downs. Here make sure you visit the  Cobb & Co Museum featuring Australia’s finest collection of horse-drawn vehicles, including Cobb & Co coaches, farm wagons, hawkers’ barrows, delivery carts and buggies. If you want to extend your journey, continue from Toowoomba to Brisbane via Esk (Highway 85) and Lake Wivenhoe (A17). Some of our favourite things to do along the way include:

Esk  is best known for its boutique cafes, country pubs and views of Mount Glen Rock. Esk is the perfect little rural town to kick back and enjoy the scenery.

Lake Wivenhoe

Lake Wivenhoe  is the largest lake in South East Queensland and is an ideal backdrop for picnics, camping, canoeing, walking and mountain biking.

Once you’re back in the big smoke, it’s time to drop your campervan back to  Britz Brisbane and head home.

These are just three of many incredible road trips from Brisbane. With 13 spectacular regions surrounding this riverside city,  Britz Brisbane is an excellent kickstart for any Queensland campervan adventure.

Ready to begin your Queensland adventure from Brisbane?  Book your Britz campervan online today and get packing! For more inspiration, check out our other popular Queensland driving routes .

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