Road trip to the sunflower fields in Brisbane
Grab your best summer look and high-res camera because the sunflowers have bloomed in South East Queensland. The race is on to find these Insta-worthy fields that lie a two-hour drive from Brisbane in the small townships of Nobby and Allora. But why drive two hours for just one photo?
Follow this road trip guide between Brisbane and the Sunflower Trail for a full day exploring the Brisbane region – we guarantee you’ll come home with more than just sunflower pictures.
The sunflowers will be in bloom from early January until March, however, the flowers can be incredibly weather dependent. Check with the local tourism offices before you go to get information on the condition of the sunflower fields. The next field is set to bloom in the Allora region in 1-2 weeks.
Use this Google Map we've created to help guide you.
Fuel up for a big day ahead and check out the historic city of Ipswich.
Drop in for breakfast
For those who like to take it easy in the morning with a freshly brewed coffee and a sweet or savoury treat to banish the hunger pangs, you can’t go past one of Ipswich’s delicious cafes. Grab Campos Coffee from Fourthchild, acai bowls from Beans & Greens, decadent waffles and milkshakes from 116 Laneway Cafe & Bar or eggs with bacon jam from Rafter & Rose. Check out all the top cafes in Ipswich.
Occupying a restored 1895 heritage-listed building in downtown Ipswich, the antique centre is home to a number of dealers with a massive range of collectable furniture, pottery, clothing, jewels and more.
It has the word S-C-E-N-I-C in its title, so don’t expect anything less than epic mountains, lush valleys, dry plains and wide open roads.
Climbing a mountain may be no easy feat, but when you reach the summit the gain makes the pain all worthwhile. The climb up Mt Edwards takes about three hours return, but you’ll do anything for that Insta-worthy view, right?
Feeling peckish?
Drop in to Bunjergan Estate for wine tasting before heading to Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm for a picturesque lunch by the vines. Stroll through the vineyard, visit the chooks, wander the olive grove and snap an Instagram moment in the rows of lavender trees. By now, you’ll have room for the lavender ice-cream dessert, and possibly a craft beer paddle from Scenic Rim Brewery down the road.
Orrr...
If you’re looking for a quick stop-over, Arthur Clive’s Family Bakehouse in Aratula sells all the baked delights you need. Grab a freshly baked lamb and rosemary pie for a roast dinner on the run, and don’t skip a choc caramel slice for dessert.
Sunflower time
Ah, the moment you've been waiting for. Driving firstly through Allora and heading up to Nobby, both townships are currently sporting a sea of yellow fields coating the countryside. As the season changes and different fields will start and stop blooming, stop into the local Southern Queensland Country visitor information centres for tips on where the best golden fields are.
Also, please respect the farmers and stay to the edge of the fields – you can still get an epic Insta-shot from here.
The day is not over yet, get ready to drive through a region rich with stunning valley views, laid-back atmosphere and the perfect mix of town and country living.
Stock up on seasonal fruit and veg straight from the farmer’s door. Head off-road to find Tiltern Farm Vege stall in Upper Tenthill or stay on the main road for Grantham Winwill Road Vege Stall.
Rock 'n' roll into Eagle Rock Cafe for a turn of the jukebox and authentic milkshake. This American-style diner is a gem in the region.
Back in 1829 English botanist and explorer Allan Cunningham discovered the Laidley Plains. This lookout is where he stood to view the new land. Snap one last photo of the valley while the sun sets to put a cap on your very scenic day.
Now what’s for dinner?
Schulte's Meat Tavern is the one-stop shop for local produce and small goods in the Lockyer Valley. Family owned and operated, the Schulte family produces small goods which are sold alongside local produce, preserves, jams, honey and wine.
So what are you waiting for, follow this map and start exploring the sunflower fields west of Brisbane.
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By Camilla Coaldrake
Brisbane born and bred, Camilla is a passionate westsider who spends her days finding dogs to pat and dishes up hot Brisbane tips via social media. By night find her running around a field, slurping dumplings or ranking Brisbane’s best cocktail bars. Her favourite cheese is triple cream truffle brie, FYI.
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