A place to visit - my secret route to Killarney
I’m not sure if it’s that much of a secret but if you’re craving a weekend away, I highly recommend a day (or over-nighter) trip from Brisbane to Killarney. Coming from Brisbane you’ll want to make a detour through Boonah - if you’re staying the night and stopping for lunch you can check out Dugandan pub. It’s a super sweet, relaxed country pub that is so pooch friendly, it even serves meals for your furry companions. (Olive loved it!)
After something a little fancier? Check out Blume Restaurant - this special little spot is open from lunch to dinner Friday through to Sunday and offers a seasonal menu, sourcing only from nearby farms and suppliers. You’ll want to make sure you book in advance - it’s super popular and books out on weekends. Be sure to check out Jen’s garden while you’re there! Oh, and if you’re weary after a few vino’s - put your feet up at this quirky church bnb, conveniently located next door…
From Boonah, take Carney’s Creek Road towards Croftby - it’s here that you’ll spot some incredible longhorns grazing in the pastures. If you’re interested in staying here, I recommend you check out Croftby Hills farmstay a 1920’s homestead that spans across 8 acres. The best bit? Your pooch can stay too. Just don’t get too close to the cattle - they have horns and they’re not afraid to use them; respect their space and they’ll happily go on munching. (ps; from someone who learned the hard way)
Stop in at Carney’s Creek for a dip, before you head up towards The Head - you’ll no doubt stop multiple times along the way, this is where the scenery really kicks it up a notch. (note to self - buy new film for the camera)
A little bit of advice, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got a playlist downloaded and ready to go as you make your way up the Condamine Gorge headed for Killarney. The service drops in and out, but if the tunes go, enjoy the country air instead. There are areas on this road that are so narrow, you’ll forget it’s double laned. Always stay on your side and take caution when taking the bends - hello, blindspots.
As you’re climbing, you’ll pass through thick bushland with running streams and often, the stray cow or two - take your time climbing the range, not only because it’s safest but because you’ll really want to savour every moment of this drive, trust me.
Somewhere close to the top you’ll see a huge waterfall, dropping off the side of the road, but do not fear, there are places to stop along the way to take a snap (note; be sure to admire the cute/strange, cylindrical cabin blanketed in fog, with the best views imaginable) Every time we pass that strange and beautiful place I wonder who might live there - at least I hope someone does… when you see it, you’ll know what I’m talking about
When you reach the top, you’ll be close to Killarney and if you’re not waterfalled out, take a quick hike to Browns Falls. There’s even an AirBnb here that’s owned by the gorgeous Sue of Garden’s Galore in Warwick - if you stay, tell her I say hi!
Here’s a map of where I just took you and find some of my other favourite spots below.. Thanks for reading darling’s and happy travelling! - there’s never been a better reason to visit Scenic Rim.
