Why we all need a Queensland Country escape

Road Trip
Spread over a large swathe of countryside yet remarkably close to Brisbane, discover the wide-open spaces, rolling green hills, charming country towns, lush rainforests, sparkling lakes and endless skies of Queensland Country. 
A rural setting near Crows Nest.
A rural setting near Crows Nest. Photos: Queensland Country.

Stretching from the Lockyer Valley and Somerset regions through to the Central Highlands, Queensland Country is made for slow escapes, scenic drives and reconnecting with what matters.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, wandering through sunflower fields, sampling fresh farm flavours or watching the sun set over a vineyard, every journey offers something different.

From lakeside mornings and local produce to vibrant events and unforgettable country hospitality, Queensland Country delivers a road trip experience filled with discovery, adventure and nostalgia.

So, load up the playlist, pack the Esky and head west – because that holiday feeling starts here.

The scenery at Valhalla Glamping.

Vallhalla's luxury glamping is surrounded by peaceful countryside.

Luxury, Queensland Country style

Country doesn’t mean compromising on comfort.

Queensland Country offers everything from luxury lodges and boutique retreats to welcoming farm stays, holiday parks and spectacular camping spots where memories are made.

Wake up to sweeping valley views at Spicers Peak Lodge, a world-class wilderness retreat in the Southern Downs and a destination for food lovers.

In the Lockyer Valley, immerse yourself in nature with a luxury glamping escape at Valhalla, surrounded by peaceful countryside, or head north to South Burnett to disconnect off grid at The Firebreak, nestled in the foothills of the Bunya Mountains.

For those who prefer a simpler style of escape, Queensland Country is the perfect place to slow down, roll out a swag, gather around a campfire and reconnect beneath a blanket of stars.

Camp out under the stars

With wide-open landscapes and some of Australia’s best stargazing conditions, Queensland Country was made for outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re towing a caravan, travelling by campervan or setting up camp under the stars, there are plenty of places to pull up and unwind.

From free camps and low-cost camping grounds to RV-friendly towns including Gatton, Miles and Emerald, you’ll find welcoming communities ready to help make your journey memorable.

Cyclists on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Cyclists on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Fun family activities

Bring back the nostalgic road trip for the next generation and create memories with your family with a quintessential country holiday.

Cycle enthusiasts will love cycling on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT) – the closest rail trail to Brisbane and the longest in Australia.

Stretching 161km through country towns and beautiful bushland from Wulkuraka Station winding through Somerset and South Burnett regions and finishing at Yarraman Station Park in the Toowoomba region.

Ride it end to end or discover it town by town, every section has its cham with bike hire and one-way shuttle services available

For a more relaxed adventure, head to Esk for a unique ‘llamas and lattes’ experience, combining a guided walk along the rail trail with a coffee stop alongside your new four-legged friend.

And no Queensland road trip is complete without a classic ‘big thing’ photo stop.

Make your way to Chinchilla to discover the iconic Big Melon, before continuing to the Sapphire Gemfields, where you can try your luck fossicking for your own precious treasure or join a guided experience with Jeb's Gems, recently recognised as the 2026 Queensland Tour Guide of the year.

From luxury stays to campfire nights, family adventures and unexpected discoveries, Queensland Country is where the journey becomes the destination.

roadside
Always be prepared with RACQ Roadside Assistance
Help is never too far away when you’ve got RACQ Roadside Assistance. Whether you ride, drive, or tow, we’ve got cover you can count on.

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Things to note

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