If you’re the kind of traveller who values a road trip that’s equal parts exploration and surprise, then this one’s for you. It’s time to ditch the main highway and embrace the scenic route, where every turn reveals something unexpected.
This journey isn’t just about crossing off destinations—it’s about the contrast and connection between two iconic landscapes. Imagine the country charm of Bundaberg and the North Burnett, where life moves at a slower pace, combined with the coastal brilliance of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden stories from small towns, stand in awe of sweeping sandstone views, and experience nature at its rawest. It’s the road trip that fills your cup, rich with character, colour, and those quiet moments that stay with you long after the engine’s off
Day One: 🚗 Brisbane to Gayndah (323km or 3hrs 36min)
Welcome to the naturally beautiful North Burnett. Wide open skies, quiet country roads, and the kind of small-town hospitality that makes you want to linger longer. The North Burnett is steeped in history, agriculture, and natural beauty — a region made for slowing down and reconnecting.
Kick off your road trip in Gayndah, Queensland’s oldest town and proud citrus capital. With heritage-listed buildings, a friendly main street, and sweeping orchard views, Gayndah delivers charm by the crate load — and one seriously oversized piece of fruit. Introducing the Big Orange; a 16-metre-tall fibreglass giant standing proudly on the Burnett Highway. A snap with this juicy icon is practically a rite of passage but also a bold tribute to the region’s rich citrus-growing legacy. Snap a pic, stretch your legs, and tick off one of Queensland’s must-see “big things”.
If you’re wanting to stretch your legs a little longer, head to McConnell Lookout, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the Burnett River winding through lush citrus orchards. As the heart of Queensland’s citrus industry growing 70% of Australia’s mandarins, limes, mangoes, garlic, pecans and more, Gayndah is a prime spot to snap up some fresh, locally grown produce before hitting the road for your next stop.
Tonight, pull up stumps at Mundubbera Three Rivers Tourist Park or Country Roads Motor Inn.
Day Two: 🚗 Gayndah to Cania Gorge National Park, via Monto (185km or 2hr 8min)
Today, your adventure takes you to Cania Gorge National Park, with a pit stop in the charming town of Monto along the way.
Monto may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to public art and country charm. Here your visit begins just on the outskirts of town at the impressive Three Moon Silos, where towering murals tell local stories of the land and legends. Take a stroll through the main street to discover even more colourful murals, heritage buildings, and the quirky Painted Cow Trail—a fun tribute to the area’s dairy farming history. Enjoy a bite at a local café, and embrace the friendly vibe as you explore the North Burnett Art Trail.
After soaking in Monto’s charm, it’s time to head just up the road to Cania Gorge National Park - A sandstone wonderland and the perfect basecamp for your next day of North Burnett beauty. This afternoon your settling into BIG4 Breeze Holiday Park Cania Gorge — the ideal accommodation for a well-deserved holiday. Experience the perfect balance of comfort and adventure no matter if you’ve rolled in with the van, pitched a tent, or packed light, their cabins, powered and unpowered sites are catered for you to immerse in natural wonders at your doorstep.
Day Three: Cania Gorge National Park
Just moments from BIG4 Breeze Holiday Park, you’ll find towering cliffs, ancient caves, and over 90 bird species waiting to be discovered. With up to eight walking trails for every experience level this ancient landscape is where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. Today you’re immersing in the naturally beautiful North Burnett at its greatest, so lace up your walking shoes for a heart pumping day of ancient wander.
For a short, easy trek, try the 1.4km return walk to the historic Shamrock goldmine site, where relics from the past still linger. For a more challenging experience, the 5.6km trek to Giant’s Chair lookout offers stunning views over the gorge and the chance to connect with the ancient landscape. Whether you’re after a leisurely stroll or a rewarding challenge, the trails here have something for everyone.
Day Four: 🚗 Head to Bundaberg via Mt Perry
Heading east from Cania Gorge, it’s time to trade country comfort for pristine coastline views and even greater surprises in Bundaberg. Your journey kicks off with a slight detour through Mount Perry, a town rich in history.
Settled in the 1840s, Mount Perry grew from sheep grazing to a booming mining town by the 1860s, thanks to copper discoveries and still to this day, the town keeps its mining spirit alive. A must-stop here is the Boolboonda Tunnel — the longest unsupported tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere. Stretching 192 meters through solid rock, it was built in 1883 for the Bundaberg-Mount Perry railway and now serves as a home to a colony of bent-winged bats. Explore this historic gem at your own pace before continuing on.
Known for its iconic Bundaberg Rum and Ginger Beer, this vibrant town not only has great drinks, it’s also where your gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef begins. Picture turtles, Manta Rays, whales, and colourful coral lagoons—all waiting to be explored. Bundaberg is your launchpad for unforgettable experiences and mouthwatering local flavours you’ll crave long after.
This afternoon, unwind at Turtle Sands, the region’s newest nature resort, where you’ll enjoy a restful night surrounded by natural beauty, setting the stage for another day of exploration. For dinner, indulge in fresh, locally caught seafood at Grunske’s Seafood Restaurant in Bundaberg. With stunning views of the Burnett River and skies painted in shades of cotton-candy pink, this laid-back spot is perfect for soaking in the scenery. Known for its trawler-to-table delights, Grunske’s also offers delicious alternatives for those craving something a little less fishy.
Day Five: Southern Great Barrier Reef
The Southern Great Barrier Reef is a bucket list destination like no other, and it's right on Bundaberg’s doorstep. With idyllic white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s the perfect spot to swim with sea turtles and encounter giant marine life such as manta rays and whales.
Opt for a day trip to one of the southern coral cays — Lady Musgrave Island or Lady Elliot Island — both offer nature at its finest. Visit during the cooler months, when the reef’s visibility is so clear it feels like you're not even wearing goggles, and the manta ray and whale season is in full swing. The soothing sound of whale song will accompany you on your snorkel safari.
From Bundaberg Port Marina, you can embark on a day trip with Lady Musgrave Experience to explore Lady Musgrave Island’s underwater wonderland or take a scenic 25-minute flight with Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort for a day at Lady Elliot Island. Whether you’re enjoying a glass-bottom boat tour, exploring the island guided by a marine expert, or diving into the coral-filled lagoon bustling with vibrant reef fish - a day spent with these two iconic islands is a must-do adventure.
Where to Start & How to Get Here
If you’re coming from Brisbane or the south-east, take the scenic route via Australia’s Country Way. Wind your way through Queensland’s heartland, soaking in the vast open spaces, and endless horizons before arriving at the start of your Outback to Reef journey.
Already based in Bundaberg? Perfect. Flip the route and head west to uncover the North Burnett’s sweet spots then, loop back to the reef, where great continues.
Stay a little longer...
Got an extra day (or five)? Don’t miss the chance to enhance your outback-to-reef road trip with these must-do experiences in Bundaberg.
Start with a tour at Bundaberg Rum to uncover the heritage behind Australia’s favourite spirit, followed by a visit to Brewed Drinks Barrel for an up-close look at the iconic Bundaberg Brewed Drinks. Next, raise a glass at Kalki Moon Distillery, where you can savour local gin and vodka crafted with passion.
For a sweet treat, head to Tinaberries and indulge the most vibrant real-fruit ice-cream you’ll ever taste and if you’re planning a visit during September, bite into fresh, juicy strawberries picked straight from the farm. If you're craving some coastal vibes, take a short trip to Elliott Heads for some extra dose of vitamin sea and a cheeky rock-pool ramble.