Long weekend on the horizon? Or are you craving a Western Downs getaway? For those keen to explore further than the Garden City, Toowoomba, make the most of your leave with this complete Bunya Mountains itinerary. From departure, to check-in, and return, find why you need to #experiencewesterndowns.
Day 1
Morning
The key to a smooth departure is packing the night before; and you’ll want to pack early when you’ve got the bikes, camping equipment and family in tow.
Flying into Toowoomba? Not to worry – this itinerary is still for you. Bonza offer flights to Toowoomba’s Wellcamp Airport where you can grab your hire car and make your way along the Warrego Highway for a cruisy and scenic 1.5-hour drive.
If you’re feeling like a country detour, take a pitstop in Dalby – Queensland’s most productive wheat region. Be sure to order your morning coffee at Urban Paddock or Marissa’s Espresso or peruse the shops for your own piece of country charm and before you leave. For those wanting to self-cater, this is a good chance to stock up on food essentials from the Dalby Woolworths, Coles, Aldi or FoodWorks.
Afternoon
Start your Bunya activities off at a trot, with Bunya Mountains Horse Drawn Tours. Rides range from 10-minutes to two-hours, adventuring deep into the forest down an old logging track, with a pit-stop for billy tea, fresh damper, and roasted Bunya Pine Nuts. After your horse drawn experience, encounter the local feathered residents, the King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas, by grabbing a bird feeding tray and seed from The General Store.
Evening
If you’re visiting the Bunyas in the warmer seasons, continue your reconnection with nature by setting up camp at the Dandabah campgrounds. Relax along the sprawling lawns, and enjoy convenience with a communal BBQ and hot showers.
Whilst your esky is cold, enjoy an atmospheric campground BBQ as the sun sets. Find delight in the Bunya Mountains wildlife as the wallabies hop through the grounds and the nightlife begins to glow – literally with fireflies between October and November.
If you’re visiting the mountain in the cooler months, consider booking one of the cabins dotted over the mountain. Accommodating group from two to 22, most of the private holiday-let cabins include fireplaces to keep you cozy and marshmallows toasted.
Day 2
Morning
Win the morning and win the day with an epic sunrise lookout. There are plenty of great views from The Bunyas, but to capture the golden morning rays, head to Barker Creek Lookout and Fishers Lookout.
Whilst you have your hiking boots on, embark on an adventure through one of the many Bunya Mountains walking trails. For those chasing waterfalls, set your sights on Festoon Falls and Tim Shea Falls, known for its rock pools.
Afternoon
It’s time to turn up the pace on the Bunya Mountains – Mountain Bike Trails. Chase the adrenaline with 18kms of trails that range from easy to easy/intermediate. Perfect for families with varying confidence levels, take your pick from four trails that span 1.3km to 6.3km. Ride your way in between the towering Bunya Pines, over bridges, rocks and logs – feel the wind in your helmet as your cruise your way around the Bunyas.
Evening
After a big day of nature adventures, retreat to the tasty Bunya Mountains Tavern. With three dining areas, choose from a cozy interior or below the twinkling stars on the deck or within Australia’s highest whisky bar – Shackleton’s. Sample the region’s famous bunya nuts across the menu as you reminisce on the day and look forward to tomorrow’s adventures. Bookings are essential.
Day 3
Morning
Fuel your day with a slow morning brunch at Poppies on the Hill. We recommend grabbing a table perched along the lawn, ordering a hot coffee and sampling their fresh bunya nut scones.
Afternoon
Slowly wind your way back down the mountain as you begin the short trip to Toowoomba. Still up for a final detour? Conclude the trip with a hearty lunch at Kaimkillenbun’s iconic Bun Hotel. With a beer garden and charming country bar, order from a range of craft beer and classic pub meals that will leave you satisfied. Bookings are essential on weekends.
With a full stomach and a boot full of memories, take the quick one-hour drive along the Warrego Highway back to Toowoomba.