The ultimate road trip itinerary!

Take in the best places to stop and experience a different view on your way from The Whitsundays to Brisbane.

The Whitsundays to Brisbane is approximately a 1200km drive. Below we have mapped out the perfect itinerary including a couple of must do’s on your way!

Day 1 – Whitsundays to Biloela

Stop: Biloela | 664km South of Airlie Beach | 7 hour drive

For an outback town with a relatively small population, the accommodation offering in Biloela is quite large. From motor inns, motels and hotels, to camping and caravan parks, you won’t be short of choices in the accommodation stakes.

Outback Queensland isn’t all red dirt. There’s an oasis in Biloela and it goes by the name Lake Callide Retreat (15 minutes from Biloela). Here you can spend your night by the water of Callide Dam. The retreat has kayaks, paddle boats, stand up paddle boards for hire.

Photo credit: @outbackqueensland

Day 2 - Biloela to Woodford

First Stop: Woodford | 510km South of Biloela | 6 hour drive

After a nice break in Biloela its time to hit the road. From Biloela continue on the A3 highway heading towards Brisbane. The historic township of Woodford is a little taste of country right on the city’s doorstep. Noted for its wide streets, grand old hotel and colonial style shops, it was one of the earliest settled areas of the shire and its history is reflected in several noted tourist spots. The Woodford region is steeped in history and retains much of its yesteryear charm. The historic pub still stands proudly on the main road through town, while quaint turn-of-the-century buildings house quirky shops and eateries throughout the shopping precinct. A heritage railway and a historical museum proudly testify to the region’s diverse past. If you love history, culture and nature, you’ll love your stay in Woodford. Woodford is also home to the Woodford Folk Festival, an iconic cultural, music, arts, environment and performance event featuring more than 2000 performers, 35 venues and 438 acts. If you are on the road over the new year period this event of international standing is a must! 

Day 3 – Woodford to Brisbane

Optional detour: Glasshouse Mountains | 25km North-East of Woodford | 30 minute drive

Before you finish your road trip we recommend squeezing in a visit to the Glass House Mountains. The rugged volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains are listed on the Queensland and National heritage registers as a landscape of national importance due to their cultural significance to the area's traditional Aboriginal owners. Take the 2.8-kilometre Mount Ngungun Summit walk via open forest, ferneries and rocky overhangs to the mountain's peak. Take in the spectacular 360-degree view over the land, you'll see that there's certainly a feeling of spirituality to the area.

Photo credit: @visitsunshinecoast

Stop: Brisbane | 71km South of Glass House Mountains | 1-hour drive

Now you’ve experienced the beauty of Queensland and all it encompasses including the coast, hinterland and a little slice of the outback. It’s time to head back to the city and cherish your time away from the hustle and bustle.

Looking for more drive itineraries for your road trip 👉 www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/drive-itineraries

Looking for a different way to get back to The Whitsundays? Check out our Brisbane to The Whitsundays itinerary here