Every stop you should make on a Sydney to Brisbane drive

Sally Scott Sally Scott
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Put your foot down and soak up jaw-dropping splendour on your next Sydney to Brisbane drive.

If you like driving through country towns and not past them, then a Sydney to Brisbane drive through New England High Country is for you.

Whether you’ve got a few days or even a week to meander through charming country towns, delightful cafes, classic bakeries and stunning scenery, the journey flows with memorable sights from start to finish. We map out the absolute must-experiences so you can wind down the window and watch the good times roll on.

Sydney

No Sydney to Brisbane drive kicks off without dipping a foot in the unmistakable hum of the Harbour City.

A whip around Circular Quay, set right off Sydney Harbour, will help you tick off all the icons at once — think the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Museum of Contemporary Art (one of the city’s best art galleries) and The Rocks’ historical precinct among a healthy dose of retail boutiques and world-class restaurants.

Ten Thousand Suns, 24th Biennale of Sydney 2024
Admire awe-striking installations at the Museum of Contemporary Art. (Image: Image by Document Photography)

For a change of pace, head to the northern beaches, home to some of the most exceptional stretches of sand and surf in Sydney. Land in Manly for excellent cafe culture and plenty of adventure, and stretch your legs right up the coastline for relaxed beach towns spilling over with laid-back hipster scenes.

crowds flocking at Sydney Harbour
Admire the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stop 1: Newcastle

Once you kiss Sydney goodbye, hit the road for two hours to reach booming Newcastle. Here, you’ll discover a city that’s growing in popularity, and so much more than a relaxed and breezy weekender.

a person holding a surfboard at Merewether Beach, Newcastle
Spend a breezy surfing weekend on Merewether Beach. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Blessed with beautiful beaches of its own, cool cafes and a thriving arts scene, one stop in Newcastle is never enough to capture everything on offer.

the Merewether Beach in Newcastle
Newcastle is blessed with beautiful beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Jana Restaurant & Bar, one of the city’s best restaurants, is the spot for foodies. With capacity for 75 diners, the eatery within the QT Newcastle spins magic out of humble ingredients.

the Jana Restaurant & Bar in Newcastle
The 75-seater Jana Restaurant & Bar is housed in the heritage David Jones building.

Keep exploring this beautiful corner of the world by grabbing your fuel to go. You’ll find top-notch takeaway coffee at the best cafes in Newcastle, including Good Brother Espresso Shop, Darks Coffee Roasters and Praise Joe.

people ordering coffee at Darks Coffee Roasters
Make a pit stop at Darks Coffee Roasters.

Keen to make a night of your adventure? There’s plenty of exceptional accommodation offerings in Newcastle including that QT you’ve already familiarised yourself with, as well as Quest Newcastle West and Crystalbrook Kingsley.

the bed at one of the rooms in Crystalbrook Kingsley
Crystalbrook Kingsley brings contemporary luxury to the CBD. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

Stop 2: Tamworth

Journey about 3.5 hours and you’ll land in Tamworth, where country music thrives and the dining and entertainment scenes continues to grow. But first, coffee. Punch Double Picc in Muswellbrook into your Maps to find an outstanding fix.

colourful cookies at Double Picc in Muswellbrook
Grab a cookie to pair with your warm brew at Double Picc.

Jump back into the car and push on to Willow Tree where The Plains Pantry is a non-negotiable for fresh local produce, sweet treats or healthy bites, aka lunch.

Have you really visited Tamworth though if you don’t snap a selfie at the Big Golden Guitar? It’s on the southern approach on the New England Highway, so you can’t miss it and despite the clichés, it’s rather a cool tribute to the town’s country music roots. So too, the bronze statues along the main street that pay tribute to an assortment of country music legends.

The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre in Tamworth
Snap a selfie at the Big Golden Guitar. (Image: Destination NSW)

Your exploration has only just begun. For casual eats, The Pig & Tinder Box Restaurant & Bar is a local favourite. Housed within Tamworth’s beautiful old bank building, it’s got a menu of creative share plates and traditional wood-fired pizzas.

a plate of food at The Pig & Tinder Box,Tamworth
The Pig & Tinder Box Restaurant & Bar serves up creative share plates. (Image: Destination NSW)

Meanwhile, Goonoo Goonoo Station’s Glasshouse Restaurant is Tamworth’s most celebrated dining destination. With sweeping views over rolling hills to the distant Liverpool Range, it oozes sophistication.

sipping wine at Goonoo Goonoo Station’s Glasshouse Restaurant, Tamworth
Sip premium wines at Goonoo Goonoo Station’s Glasshouse Restaurant overlooking the rolling hills. (Image: Destination NSW)

Culture vultures should stop by the Tamworth Regional Gallery, located in the heart of town, and if you’re feely weary, Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth by Rydges is a five-star beauty with stylish rooms, an inviting bar and one impressive steakhouse.

a couple viewing an art exhibition at the Tamworth Regional Gallery
Head to Tamworth Regional Gallery for all things art. (Image: Destination NSW)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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Stop 3: Armidale

Keep trucking about 1.5 hours to find Armidale, where community spirit soars.

the historic grounds of Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse
Stop by Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse to recharge. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hunt down Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse for wine tasting (and potentially your night’s digs) as well as picnicking amid spectacular country gardens with a cheese platter.

a couple enjoying wine tasting at Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse
Sip some of their finest drops. (Image: Destination NSW)

Before you jet off, grab a bottle of something special to enjoy at your next destination.

pouring wine into a glass at Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse
Take one for the road. (Image: Destination NSW)

No trip to the ‘Cathedral City,’ dubbed so thanks to the town’s wonderous colonial buildings, is also in good proximity to hiking trails, like those found in the Washpool National Park and Gibraltar Range National Park.

the Dandahra Crags walking track in Gibraltar Range National Park
Witness the sunrise over the Dandahra Crags walking track in Gibraltar Range National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

If it’s time to slow down and recharge your Sydney to Brisbane drive, Petersons is incredibly lush but there’s also the Tattersalls Hotel Armidale which dazzles in Art Deco style.

the historical facade of the Tattersalls Hotel in Armidale
Stay in the Art Deco-style Tattersalls Hotel Armidale. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stop 4: Tenterfield

Soldier on another two hours and you’ll bump into Tenterfield, just 20 kilometres away from the Queensland border. A visit to this town is not complete without visiting the historic Tenterfield Saddler, made famous by the great Peter Allen. The original saddlery is filled with interesting memorabilia and leather goods but it’s the old bones that are guaranteed to fascinate.

the entrance of Tenterfield Saddler
Visit the historic Tenterfield Saddler. (Image: Destination NSW)

Glenrock Gardens is another must-discover in all its 10-acre glory. There’s a working farm on site but simply wandering around the tranquil property is sure to fill up your cup.

a small pond at Glenrock Gardens
Bask in the lush, 10-acre glory of Glenrock Gardens.

On the main street of Tenterfield is The Corner, a sprawling store filled with homewares, fashion, jewellery, accessories and gifts you’ll struggle to say no to. When sleep time calls, The Commercial Boutique Hotel offers eight luxurious rooms above a tastefully restored pub decked out in Art Deco extravagance.

people dining inside the Commercial Boutique Hotel in Tenterfield
Step into the restored pub at Commercial Boutique Hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

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Stop 5: Stanthorpe

Next stop along your Sydney to Brisbane drive is Stanthorpe, one of the beautiful Queensland towns along the state’s Granite Belt.

the vineyard at Tobin Wines
Hop between vineyards in the stunning Stanthorpe. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Wine country flourishes in this neck of the woods so take your time as you hop between vineyards including Tobin Wines and Symphony Hill Wines, both technically in nearby Ballandean, and Ridgemill Estate.

the exterior of Tobin Wines in Stanthorpe
Pop by Tobin Wines for cellar door tastings. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Take advantage of the town’s excellent glamping stay, Alure Stanthorpe, by spending the night.

a couple sitting while admiring the scenic landscape at Alure Stanthorpe
Hit refresh with a relaxing glamping stay at Alure Stanthorpe. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s nothing but misty mountains and cattle-dotted farmscapes so prepare to unwind amid one heck of a backdrop.

a couple relaxing in a tub at Alure Stanthorpe
Soak in the outdoor tub at sundown. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Stop 6: Brisbane

You made it all the way to Brisbane, the buzzing Queensland capital. From riverfront dining and laneway bars to world-class art galleries and breathtaking nature exploration, the city has evolved into one of Australia’s most exciting destinations.

a couple dining at Howard Smith Wharves
Nothing beats riverfront dining at Howard Smith Wharves. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Don’t miss Howard Smith Wharves, one of Brisbane’s best entertainment precincts scattered with killer bars and restaurants, plus one of the best breweries in the country.

a couple drinking beer by the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves
Drink by the river with dazzling views of the Story Bridge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As for a comfy bed to help you recharge overused batteries, you’re spoilt for accommodation options. Think plush five-star hotels, achingly cool boutique hotels and one of the world’s highly acclaimed urban oasis’.

a couple relaxing on a sunlounger at Howard Smith Wharves
Soak up waterfront views on a sun lounger. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Heading the other direction? Here are the stops you should make when driving from Brisbane to Sydney.

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Sally Scott
Sally Scott is a seasoned travel writer based on Bundjalung County (Northern Rivers) who knows a thing or two about luxe holidays. Whether it's road tripping regional Australia or jetting off on an overseas sojourn, Sally seeks out unique experiences to find the most fabulous places to eat, sip and stay to share with readers.
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Wine, dine and vintage gems: 8 things you didn’t know about Toowoomba

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    There’s more to Australia’s Garden City than meets the eye.

    With Victorian-era and traditional Queenslander buildings, an abundance of manicured gardens and the famous Carnival of Flowers painting the streets in vibrant colours each spring, Toowoomba is one of the most charming regional cities in Queensland Country.

    While its beauty alone is reason enough to visit, there are lesser-known sides to Toowoomba that locals love most, from its burgeoning culinary scene to its artistic flair. Located just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane (or a direct flight from Sydney), it’s all too easy to discover on a long weekend away.

    1. There’s an awesome local arts scene

    tour group walking in front of toowoomba street art
    Find incredible works of art around Toowoomba’s streets. (Credit: Nathan McNeil)

    Australia’s second largest inland city is a flourishing arts and culture hub waiting to be discovered. Over 100 vibrant street art murals and graffiti works decorate the city, and they’re best viewed along Bank Lane and Searles Walk.

    Regional Queensland’s oldest public art gallery can also be found in Toowoomba – it’s home to 20th-century Australian works created by Queensland artists and those connected to the Toowoomba region.

    2. It has world-class farm-to-table dining

    rosalie house aerial toowoomba secrets
    Stop into Rosalie House to wine and dine.

    As a regional city, Toowoomba has direct access to incredibly fresh produce that’s shaping its culinary scene. At sunset, head to the verandah at Rosalie House Cellar Door Restaurant for a grazing-style dining experience and to discover Queensland’s underrated wine scene. Indulge in dishes such as Warilba lamb rump and roasted pumpkin with ginger-roasted potatoes and lime yoghurt, paired with their delicious cool-climate wines.

    For a more relaxed affair, sweet tooths should make a beeline for award-winning The Baker’s Duck. Be sure to try their cult favourite strawberry cheesecake danish; you’ll learn why 35,000 of these treats are sold annually.

    3. Small bars are doing big work

    table spread at Uno Más small bar in toowoomba secrets
    Pop into small bars like Uno Más.

    Toowoomba doesn’t disappoint with fantastic pubs, but discerning drinkers can take happy hour to the next level at one of the city’s impressive small bars. Savour Spanish-style bites paired with a thoughtful line-up of wines at the newly opened Uno Más Tapas & Wine Bar. On Thursdays, head to Cork & Lever to tap your feet to live music over creative cocktails made with their all-Australian gin collection. And enjoy elevated toasties and premium drops at the cosy Press’d Coffee & Wine. Or try newly opened The Book Pour.

    4. There’s no shortage of fabulous stays

    Bunnyconnellen
    Chill out in beautiful surrounds at Bunnyconnellen. (Credit: Salt Media)

    Whether you prefer the buzz of the city centre or retreating to the hinterland, there are stylish stays aplenty to settle into in this idyllic corner of the world. Apartment-style living can be found at Quest Toowoomba; partly housed in a heritage church building in the city, it’s a comfortable and convenient base. And at The Arbour Boutique Apartments, spacious rooms are injected with old-world charm.

    In the hinterland, enjoy bucolic bliss at the boutique Bunnyconnellen, where an 1880s farmhouse and self-contained cottage are backdropped by rolling hills. And at the secluded Ravensbourne Escape, one-bedroom studios, two-bedroom chalets and three-bedroom holiday homes overlook Ravensbourne National Park and the Brisbane and Lockyer Valleys.

    5. It’s a nature-lovers paradise

    extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain
    Tackle Table Top Mountain. (Credit: Ariana Potamianakis)

    Toowoomba is hugged by national parks, making it a haven for nature lovers. On its doorstep you’ll find the extinct volcanic peak Table Top Mountain, where keen hikers can tackle the challenging two-kilometre return trail which rewards them with 360° views of the Lockyer Valley and surrounds.

    For a more gentle experience, Ravensbourne National Park offers peaceful walking trails within lush rainforest. It’s a top spot for bird watching as there are over 110 bird species that call the area home, including the paradise riflebird. Crows Nest National Park is home to platypus and koalas, and its refreshing natural swimming spots, like Kauyoo Pool, are a great place to beat the heat.

    6. Wellness enthusiasts are well looked after

    Toowoomba’s cool and calm energy lends itself to a wellness-focused getaway. Slated to open in August 2026, soak in the serenity at Vikasati Toowoomba, a bathhouse oasis with outdoor hot and cold magnesium pools, ice baths and Finnish saunas. Rest and recharge at City Cave Toowoomba, which offers float therapy, infrared sauna and massage services, or visit Kalm Springs for LED therapy, cryotherapy and float therapy.

    7. It’s preserved its 19th-century charm

    inside Queensland Museum Cobb + Co
    Learn all about the history of Cobb+Co.

    History buffs can step back in time at Toowoomba’s fascinating cultural and historical museums.

    Explore 50,000 years of Darling Downs and Toowoomba history at the Queensland Museum Cobb+Co; it’s known for its impressive National Carriage Collection of 47 restored horse-drawn vehicles, which were put to use for Queensland’s urban expansion. Visitors can also try their hand at blacksmithing or leadlighting in heritage workshops, refuelling with traditional scones at the onsite cafe.

    Train enthusiasts can celebrate the golden era of rail travel on a heritage steam locomotive thanks to the volunteer-driven, community-led organisation DownsSteam Toowoomba. Vintage train rides range from a two-hour journey between Toowoomba Station and DownsSteam Railway Museum to an overnight adventure from Toowoomba to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

    8. There are vintage gems waiting to be found

    Whether it’s to pick up a unique piece for your home or a one-of-a-kind accessory for a loved one, you’re guaranteed to find something special in one of Toowoomba’s antique and vintage stores. Range Antiques sells everything from furniture, rugs and lamps to fine porcelain, jewellery and art, while Toowoomba Antiques & Collectables is a treasure trove of Art Deco, farmhouse, retro and mid-century modern pieces.

    Start planning your weekender of a lifetime in Queensland Country region at queenslandcountrytourism.com.au.