Girraween National Park, Queensland © Tourism Australia
Guide to the Darling Downs
Garden cities, ancient rock formations and plentiful produce – this is the Darling Downs.
The expansive stretch of the Darling Downs is regional Australia at its most varied – and most delicious. Stretching west from the Great Dividing Range, this is a region of incredible contrasts. Think cool-climate wineries to the south, rainforest and towering bunya pines to the north, a garden city in the centre and flavour-packed farming in between. Just a 90-minute drive from Brisbane, the Darling Downs is a fruitful country escape waiting to fill your cup.
The large region of the Darling Downs encompasses the traditional lands of many Aboriginal language groups, including the Giabal, Jarowair, Jagera, Barunggam, Keinjan, Kambuwal, Iman and Wakka Wakka peoples. One important part of Aboriginal life in the area was the Bunya Nut Festival, which drew in tribes from all over the region.
Toowoomba, at the heart of the Darling Downs, is a 90-minute drive from Brisbane via the Warrego Highway.
- Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport (WTB) is 19km (12mi) from the centre of the city, with daily services from Sydney
- Brisbane Airport is 139km (86mi) from Toowoomba
Driving is the most popular and most rewarding way to explore the region once you land. It is connected by sealed highways, with plenty of routes allowing you the freedom to chase your own adventure. Car hire is available at Toowoomba and Brisbane airports.
The elevation of the Great Dividing Range gives the region its mild summers and cool winters – the Granite Belt and Stanthorpe even get the occasional dusting of snow in June and July. Spring here blooms with colour – Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers transforms the city, crops of sunflowers blanket the plains and wildflowers dance in Girraween National Park. Come autumn, you’ll feast on the bountiful harvest, while winter is perfect for wine tasting.
- High season: Spring (September to November)
- Low Season: Summer, autumn and winter (December to August)
The Darling Downs has a selection of accessible accommodation, experiences and attractions catering to all travellers.
- Arrival: Services for people with disabilities are available at Toowoomba and Brisbane airports.
- Getting around: Toowoomba’s local taxis offer accessible vehicle options upon request, and the city centre is largely flat with accessible paths. Out of the city, it’s best to organise a car hire option that’s right for you. Be sure to coordinate with your car hire company in advance.
- Accessible experience highlights: The Botanic Gardens, Queens Park and Laurel Bank Park all offer accessible paths and are key Carnival of Flowers venues. To spot famed bunya pines, look no further than the accessible Bunya Bunya Loop at the Bunya Mountains National Park.
