The mother of all nature experiences on the Western Downs
From dense rainforest in the mountains and lush lagoons, to fields as far as the eye can see, you can indulge in it all west of the Great Dividing Range.
This winter, take the road less travelled to Somerset. With stylish retreats and campfire comforts, a wonderland of winter inspiration awaits in Somerset.
Nestled in the heart of Southern Queensland Country, Somerset is just a one hour drive from Brisbane, Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast. There’s nothing like a relaxed country drive on a glorious winter day, so why not take the road less travelled to Somerset?
Explore quaint country towns bursting with charm and character. Unwind with a winter weekend by the campfire or snuggle up in style at a fireside retreat. Uncover farm-to-fork flavours, unique gift and antique stores and a winter wonderland of unique events, art and entertainment. Check out these top tips for warming up your winter in Somerset.
1. Cosy campfire escapes
Get off the beaten track and escape to Neurum Creek Bush Retreat. Located in the beautiful bushland just outside of Kilcoy, Neurum Creek Bush Retreat is home to running creeks, bushland tracks and spacious sites. A camper’s paradise, sit by the campfire and wind down with a winter weekend at Neurum Creek Bush Retreat.
2. Must do events this winter
This season, Somerset is a winter wonderland of arts, culture and entertainment. Check out these fabulous events guaranteed to warm hearts and minds.
Things I Want To Say, art exhibition at The Condensery
On now – Closing 16 July 2023
Things I want to say brings together artists from across the country whose practices negotiate identity in contemporary Australia. Focusing on artists with a connection to Queensland, this exhibition encourages conversation around navigating one’s sense of self within the pressures of broader society.
Somerset Celebrates Art
July 2023
Local artists and galleries around the region will unite to showcase all things art and culture in Somerset throughout the month of July. With painting, pottery, performances and more, Somerset Celebrates Art month features a variety of exhibitions, events, activities, workshops and entertainment sure to inspire and delight.
Stonehouse Moore Heritage Open Day
Saturday, 22 July 2023
Established in 1874, the Stonehouse Moore is an historical gem of Somerset. Discover the past at the Stonehouse Heritage Open Day. With markets, entertainment, delicious food and drinks, this rare glimpse of yesteryear is not to be missed.
3. Winter Wonders of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail
Warm up your winter and get active in the great outdoors of Somerset this season. Pay homage to the mountain biking mecca, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is Australia’s longest recreational rail trail and a bucket list experience for cyclists, hikers and horse-riders. From Wulkuraka near Ipswich to the northern reaches of Yarraman in the north, follow the once laid tracks of the old Brisbane Valley Railway line through the charming villages of Somerset. With the cool change of winter upon us, there’s no better time to explore the beauty of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
4. Active events to warm up your winter
Get out and active in the great outdoors at these fun events guaranteed to warm up your winter.
BVRT Banquet in the Paddock
Saturday, 8 July 2023
Enjoy a bike ride from Fernvale to Coominya where you will be treated to a banquet in the paddock, prepared by Brisbane Valley Farm Direct’s executive signature chef, Jason Peppler. Work off those hard-earned calories with a ride back to Fernvale, where your cycling and culinary journey ends. Bookings essential.
Somerset Rail Trail Classic 2023
Sunday, 23 July 2023
At the 20th instalment of the Somerset Rail Trail Classic, participants have the choice of running or walking 3km or 8km or a 44km bike ride along the historic Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. All courses finish at the Fernvale Sports Park at a post-race festival with family-friendly rides, market stalls, and an array of food trucks. Warm up your winter at this year’s Somerset Rail Trail Classic and enjoy the best of what Somerset has to offer.
Discover more winter experiences in Somerset here.
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