Gold Coast to Lockyer Valley
The Lockyer Valley is a short one hour’s drive from Brisbane and Toowoomba respectively and is undoubtedly the produce-bowl of south-east Queensland.
From a converted convent dating back to the late 1800s to a homestead built by one of Chinchilla’s early settlers – learn more about the region you’re exploring by checking in for a night (or two).
“If these walls could talk”, you would easily hear stories of Southern Queensland Country’s history within them on an overnight adventure.
From a converted convent dating back to the late 1800s to a homestead built by one of Chinchilla’s early settlers – learn more about the region you’re exploring by checking in for a night (or two).
If you’ve already ticked off these six historical stays in Southern Queensland Country, here’s five more to put on your accommodation list.
1. Banksia Cottage, Toowoomba
For a historical stay that lists over 20 VIPs as previous guests on its website since converting into a two-bedroom self-contained property, book into Banksia Cottage.
Of course, by “VIP”, we mean Very Important Pets. Offering a fully fenced yard and kennel with bowls, this pet-friendly accommodation welcomes the whole family to Toowoomba.
A renovated and restored cottage dating back to 1898, Banksia Cottage offers a historical stay paired with creature comforts – from a fireplace, air-conditioning and a fully contained country kitchen.
While you’re exploring the Garden City, make sure you add these pet-friendly activities to your itinerary during your stay.
A: 5 Norwood Street, Toowoomba City Q 4350
P: 0420 530 619
2. Abbey Boutique Hotel, Warwick
Looking for an adult’s only escape? Book Abbey Boutique Hotel, Warwick.
This heritage-listed bed and breakfast packs a punch when it comes to history – dating back to 1891, built as a convent for the Sisters of Mercy.
Immerse yourself looking at the original stain-glass windows (which originate from the same company who made glass for the Vatican) as you wander the gardens or from the comfort of your room.
Choose from one of 10 rooms – from an original Nuns Cell measuring just 10 sqm with shared facilities to a modest West Wing measuring over 60 sqm with a king bed, private ensuite complete with rain shower and electric fireplace.
While you can spoil yourself with a private meal at the Abbey, it would be remiss not to plan a meal at one of Warwick’s best restaurants following this guide.
A: 8 Locke Street, Warwick QLD
P: 07 4661 9777
3. The Laurels of Chinchilla, Chinchilla
Image: @mediamortar
Learn about Chinchilla’s pioneering history with a stay at the Laurels of Chinchilla.
Soak up the history of Charley’s Creek, which provided a reliable water source to European explorer Ludwig Leichhardt and his party during their 1844 expedition through the region.
While the creek plays a significant role in the town’s history, the homestead was also built by one of Chinchilla’s earliest settlers.
Stay creek-side in a waterfront cabin, bungalow or family suite or book a garden view room to soak up landscape gardens of the property.
With private access to the creek – make sure you plan your visit during the warmer months to make the most of this waterfront location.
A: 15 Warrego Highway, Chinchilla Q 4413
P: 07 4669 1021
4. Rachel's Cottage, Texas
Combine a historical stay with good ol’ country hospitality in the town of Texas, 100 kilometres south-east of Goondiwindi.
Originally built in 1898 and passed down through four generations, Rachel’s Cottage now offers visitors a rustic escape with a High Street (aka the main street) location.
While the cottage has been renovated, original furniture and furnishings have been kept, offering visitors a taste of yesteryear, including an open fireplace and clawfoot bath.
Given its position in town, you don’t have to face travel once checked in.
If you’re looking to chew the fat with the locals, you’ll find them at Stockman Hotel or Texas Treats café, both within 300 metres from the cottage.
For more history, take the short five-minute drive to the banks of the Dumaresq River or visit local Goondiwindi attractions with this guide.
A: 70 High Street, Texas (Goondiwindi Area) 4385
P: 0411 098 419
5. Hillview Cottages, Booie Range
If soaking in a double spa bath with uninterrupted views across a 57-acre property sounds like your type of escape, book Hillview Cottages.
Located 10 kilometres from Kingaroy, this Booie Range property offers couples a historical connection while staying in one of its three cottages.
Choose from ‘The Church’ a studio with French doors leading to a private courtyard that once served as the All Saints Church until 1990s; ‘The Cottage’, a one-bedroom cottage with three-metre wide balcony overlooking the property which was once the local Golf Club’s Caretaker’s cottage from 1940; or ‘The Dairy’, a two-bedroom cottage that was once the original dairy at Hillview during its days as a dairy farm.
With the South Burnett wineries close by, makes sure you stop by the local cellar doors to uncork back at your property.
A: 297 Birt Rd, Kingaroy QLD
P: 07 4162 1727
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