Country Cool on the Western Downs
Get a taste of country life on a day trip to Jimbour and Bell in the Western Downs, just a short drive from Toowoomba or the Bunya Mountains.
Whether you prefer to get active, explore new things or catch up with friends (both human and canine of course), we’ve found eight pet-friendly activities for you to discover in our country.
Sutton’s Juice Factory and Cidery, Thulimbah, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
Who said travelling was only for humans?
In Southern Queensland Country, you’ll never have to leave your four-legged family member behind again.
Whether you prefer to get active, explore new things or catch up with friends (both human and canine of course), we’ve found eight pet-friendly activities for you to discover in our country.
1. Explore the Picnic Point Parklands
Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take in the iconic views of Toowoomba from Picnic Point.
If your pooch has its own ‘gram or you can’t go without a selfie of your trip – visit the Picnic Point Lookout for panoramic views of Tabletop Mountain– in one of Toowoomba’s most photographed spots.
Pack a leash so you and Fido can explore one of the escarpment tracks that criss-cross the 160 acres of parkland.
Just be sure to make a pit stop at Picnic Point Café to fuel up before hitting the trails, so you don’t go hungry.
Picnic Point Lookout, Toowoomba
2. Fields of lavender
What could be better on a road trip than stretching your legs and exploring lavender fields with your best mate?
Nestled amongst Stanthorpe’s wineries, you’ll find a pop of purple at Aloomba Lavender Farm.
You and your good boy can stroll through the rows of lavender and take in the scenery of the surrounding 4000-acre cattle farm.
If you can’t get enough of their signature lavender scones – never fear, you can camp overnight or book the B&B and extend your stay (dogs welcome overnight too of course).
3. Sink your fork into the perfect apple pie
Image: @granitebeltwinecountry
Do you think your puppy is as sweet as apple pie?
A trip to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt region is not complete without a visit to Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cidery and Café – home to the best apple pie in the region.
Park your pup outside for the cider tastings and grab a takeaway apple pie to enjoy in a special shady spot in their orchard.
Psst: did you know there’s 25 apples in each Sutton’s famous apple pie? Plenty for you both to share.
Sutton’s Juice Factory and Cidery, Thulimbah, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
4. Granite Belt bushland escape
If you’re planning on staying overnight, kick back and relax with a craft beer in hand and your dog at your feet at the Granite Belt Brewery in Stanthorpe/Ballandean.
Hidden in 30 acres of natural bushland, Granite Belt Brewery has five different pet-friendly cabin options all with a fenced yard, so there’s no need to worry about who’s driving home if you’ve enjoyed one too many ales.
Bring your little buddy along for the adventure, stay overnight and enjoy a stroll through the bush and on-site vineyard.
Granite Belt Brewery, Stanthorpe, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
5. Big Sky Country discovery
If you’re feeling cooped up inside your four walls, then hit the road and take your travel buddy on a road trip to the big open skies of the Western Country.
Camp overnight at Caliguel Lagoon, 7km south of Condamine for an epic sunset moment or pack the kayak or canoe for fun on the water.
This free camping spot has barbeques, picnic facilities and amenities to ensure both you and your travel companion are comfortable.
If you want more overnight pet-friendly adventures in Southern Queensland Country, check out our pet-friendly camping guide.
Caliguel Lagoon near Condamine, Western Downs
6. Sip your way through the South Burnett
If you have a weekend free, bring Rover along as you explore the South Burnett region.
Stay overnight at Bethany Cottages, less than 15 minutes from Kingaroy and enjoy sweeping views of the Bunya Mountains and neighbouring farmlands while you relax and unwind.
Stop in at Kingsley Grove Estate for some of the region’s best wines, dine outside in the fresh air with your furry friend while you sip their ‘berry to bottle’ wine and sample gourmet food.
Work off the wine at the end of the day with a stroll through the dog-friendly walking trails of Benarkin State Forest.
Clovely Estate, Moffatedale, South Burnett
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