Thinking of your next holiday destination? Why not go on a self-drive tour in Toowoomba? This charming city is full of scenic roads and beautiful views, and it’s less than two hours away from Brisbane. Also known as The Garden City, you’ll love its gorgeous landscape and lush greenery. If you’re not yet convinced, here are some reasons why a Toowoomba self-drive tour is an awesome idea for your next trip.

Gardens galore

Toowoomba’s rich, fertile soil makes it the perfect home for 100+ public gardens and parks. When you want to take a break after a long drive, stop and smell the flowers at any of the city gardens. Make sure your list includes the Laurel Bank Park, a gorgeous area known for its manicured gardens, playground, and picnic site. Another garden you should check out is the Newton Park State Rose Garden. This rose garden serves as a loving tribute to the city and is a popular spot for families with kids and pets.

pondImage by Pinterest

If you need something to soothe and calm you down after a stressful week, head to the University of Southern Queensland’s Japanese Garden. One of the biggest Japanese stroll gardens in Australia, you’ll love its peaceful vibe and picture-perfect views. Red bridges, azalea shrubs, and lilac blossoms provide the perfect background for a quiet afternoon.


Great vantage point at Picnic Point

flowersImage by www.flickr.com by Tim Swinson

Get a bird’s eye view of Toowoomba at Picnic Point. This heritage park offers a breath-taking view of the Main Range, making it a popular spot for sightseeing. Kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy the wide, open spaces, playgrounds, and barbecue amenities. If you’d like to stretch out your legs before going back on the road, stroll along the park trails and discover gorgeous waterfalls, secluded grassy spots, and more scenic views of the Great Dividing Range.


Salt spa treatment
gold stuffGet rid of those sniffles by booking a therapy session at Toowoomba’s Salt Caves. This unique spa uses Himalayan salt for its salt treatment rooms for a more natural way of treating different illnesses. Due to the Himalayan salt’s therapeutic properties, a session inside the salt rooms can help ease symptoms of sinus problems, skin disorders, and respiratory illnesses.


Carnival of Flowers

gay Image by www.thechronicle.com.au

The best month to visit Toowoomba is September, since this is when the yearly Carnival of Flowers is held. At this event, get your dose of flowers, wine, food, and music as you celebrate Toowoomba’s floral heritage. Floral parades, live concerts, and garden tours will keep you occupied for hours, so be sure to wear comfortable clothes and a pair of walking shoes.


Once you’ve listed down the places you want to stop by on your self-drive tour, book a cheap car hire to make travelling easier and more convenient. If you’re not familiar with the area, get a car that comes with a GPS navigation device for a minimum fee. With this gadget strapped on your dashboard, finding the next stop on your list is a breeze.