Road trip to the sunflower fields
Grab your best summer look and high-res camera because the sunflowers have bloomed in south-east Queensland. Currently find these picturesque fields a two-hour drive from Brisbane in the small townships of Nobby and Allora. But why drive two hours for just one photo? Join us on a road trip to the fields for a full day in the regions – you’ll come home with more than just sunflowers.
First stop, Ipswich
Fuel up for a big day ahead and check out the historic city of Ipswich.
Stop 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, eggs benny from Seed Coffee or eggs with bacon jam from Rafter & Rose. Check out all the top cafes in Ipswich.
Occupying a restored 1895 hertitage-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.
Move on through the Scenic Rim
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 3 hours return, but you’ll do anything for that insta-worthy view.
Feeling peckish?
Drop into 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 by a choc caramel slice for dessert.
Sunflower time
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, make sure to check out the visitor info centre before your trip for tips on the best place to find these golden fields. Also please respect the farmers and stay to the edge of the fields – you can still get an epic insta-shot from here.
Final stretch through Lockyer Valley
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.
