With our partners at Nissan, we’re highlighting a couple of inviting QLD locations that create the ideal weekend road trip from Brisbane.
Maroochydore
In a sentence: Often referred to as the beating heart of the Sunshine Coast, this vibrant river-meets-coast location pits visitors with arm’s reach of experiences ranging from adventurous to sedate.
The drive: A 100km journey northwards along the Bruce Highway where suburbia soon gives way to the majestic sight of the Glass House Mountains, before steering towards the sea.
Top attractions in and around Maroochydore
- Maroochydore Beach: Among myriad sparkling strips of sand here.
- Maroochy Wetland Sanctuary: Boardwalk exploration.
- SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium: Marine life mania!
- Chambers Island: Surrounded by Maroochy River, accessed via a footbridge.
- Point Cartwright Lighthouse: Soak up the views.
- Sunshine Castle: Family fun at Australia’s biggest castle.
What’s nearby: Head to the hinterland and visit attractive small towns, stop by cellar doors, spy waterfalls, and much more.
Stay at: BIG4 Maroochy River.
Toowoomba
In a sentence: Lauded for its parks and gardens, QLD’s largest inland city blends wide open spaces and classic countryside with modern conveniences.
The drive: After a short tilt south, this 125km drive heads in an almost straight line west towards Ipswich and then via various small towns.
Top attractions in Toowoomba
- Picnic Point lookout: Vibrant valley vistas.
- Queens Park: One of oh-so-many botanical beauties in these surrounds.
- Cobb+Co Museum: Action-packed trip back in time.
- Street Art Trail: A visual feast.
- Empire Theatre: Art deco beauty.
What’s nearby: Rainforest-clad Ravensbourne National Park has ‘daytrip must’ written all over it.
Stay at: BIG4 Toowoomba Garden City Holiday Park.
Want more? All BIG4 parks in QLD are here.