GO WEST TO FIND YOUR FAVOURITE SPOT

APRIL 2010

GO WEST TO FIND YOUR FAVOURITE SPOT

Whether you are a Brisbane resident, an old-friend dropping in for the weekend or a first-time visitor to the city, understanding the range of things to see and do in the city means exploring the magic and eclectic appeal of Brisbane’s countryside.

One of the most memorable experiences you can have is to follow the changing landscape west to discover the historical charm of Ipswich, the awe-inspiring mountain ranges of the Scenic Rim and the pristine open skies of the Country Valleys. Here you will discover many must-sees and must-dos you simply didn’t know existed.

Ipswich

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to explore Ipswich is its exciting variety of cultural, historical and adventure activities.

Located an easy 45 minute drive from down town Brisbane, Ipswich includes the townships of Grandchester, Marburg, Rosewood and Walloon. As Queensland’s oldest provincial city, each one is rich in heritage and personality. Lovers of history can follow their feet on an Ipswich Heritage Trail that will highlight several “Queensland firsts”.

For adrenalin thrill seekers Ipswich is the sure-fire winner on a weekend away to let your hair down – or up… Brisbane Sky Diving, based at Amberley Air Station, is perfect for those looking to experience the sensation of falling 12,500ft. Or float through the air with the greatest of ease during one of Floating Images’ hot air balloon rides over the picturesque countryside. If you’d rather stay on the ground slip behind the wheel of a V8 Supercar at the Queensland home of motorsport the Queensland Raceway.

Family fun is in abundance across Ipswich thanks to the award-winning Workshops Rail Museum or Ipswich Art Gallery for an artistic excursion. Queens Park is a free centre for kids, both big and small, to get up close and personal with Wallabies, bush-tailed Bilbies, birds and Wombats in a replica of their native habitat.

Foodies will enjoy a feast for their eyes and stomachs with a little help from the range of dining options scattered across the city. Whether it’s a coffee break, picnic in the park or romantic dinner for two there is a fabulous array of restaurants, cafes and pubs on offer. Or combine your love of tasty treats with times gone by during a visit to Woodlands of Marburg. Once upon a time this boutique hotel was a private estate for a local family, a resting place for missionaries during the second World War and a campus for Ipswich Grammar School.

The wine industry is quickly developing in Ipswich too, so any weekend away is only  complete after a visit to Warrego Wines, Normanby and Iron Bark Ridge estates.

Scenic Rim

Playing on its growing reputation as Brisbane’s world-heritage listed backyard, the Scenic Rim is rapidly emerging as a must-visit destination for its lush rainforests, spectacular mountain ranges and ancient landforms.

Adventure lovers can explore Mt Tamborine, Mt Lindesay, Mt Barney (South-East Queensland’s second tallest mountain), Mt Earnest, Mt May and Mt Maroon.

Lamington National Park is a delight for those who prefer less strenuous walks. The park has more than 160 kilometers of walking tracks that reach gorges, waterfalls and lookouts or you can take a stroll through the tree-tops of this subtropical rainforest.

Visit the buzzing townships of Boonah and Beaudesert to get a real sense of community from its local characters. While you’re there drop in to one of the many independent galleries that display well-respected pieces by local artists.

There is also a great selection of boutique and luxury accommodation available for weekends away. A smattering of high quality restaurants serve exquisite meals, while a growing number of boutique vineyards complete the picture of a food lovers’ paradise

Numerous picnic spots, hiking trails and camping areas are available or cast a line in the Maroon or Moogerah dams for a little R&R on the water. Nearby seven national parks provide unsurpassed panoramas of Mt French, Mt Edwards, The Head, Mount Greville, Mt Maroon and Cunninghams and Spicers Gap.

No matter where the roads take you, time in the Scenic Rim reminds you of life’s simple pleasures and the chance to switch off from the hub bub of the city only one hour away.

Country Valleys

The rural charms, patchwork fields and country hospitality of Brisbane’s Country Valleys will undoubtedly soothe the soul and remind you of life’s simple pleasures.

Just over an hour west of Brisbane is Somerset and Lockyer Valley – the perfect spot for a day’s adventure or a weekend getaway.

Lovers of the great outdoors are spoilt for choice. By day tee off on the 18-hole Graham Marsh designed golf course at the North Lakes Golf Club or get out and about on the Caboolture River Road Heritage Drive – a meandering track through Caboolture’s early settlement.

Somerset Dam is paradise for those who love their water sports. Cradled and protected by  surrounding mountains the Dam is ideal for water skiing, wake boarding, surfing and fishing. The excellent range of camping and boat ramp facilities near by makes this area one of the most popular spots for boaties in south-east Queensland.

Esk is another favourite spot for water babies. Because of its stunning location in the middle of the valley of lakes, skiing, sailing, white water kayaking, fishing, canoeing skydiving and swimming are all possible here. Or for an experience you wouldn’t get to do every day jump on a camel for a safari through the bush, visit an ostrich or deer farm or discover a range of exotic, endangered and protected animals play at Alma Park Zoo.

There is a full days worth of antique shops and bric-a-brac to sift through on a drive through Caboolture, Kilcoy and Pine Rivers if rummaging for trash and treasure is more your scene.

By night, sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy the views of the Great Dividing Range from Preston Peak Wines. Gourmet food is in plentiful supply at the recently refurbished Present Manor, located next to the Preston Chappel suitable for those intimate wedding parties.

For more information on Brisbane’s countryside and things to see and do in the city go to www.visitbrisbane.com.au