If you’re after a road trip that unflinchingly showcases the raw beauty of the outback, take the plunge into the depths of the real Australia. This isn’t a trip for the faint of heart, but travellers who are strong of spirit will love every moment!

Rockhampton

A robust regional centre, ‘Rocky’ is your starting point on the Capricorn Way – so enjoy the hustle and bustle while it lasts. Start the day off right with a coffee at The Two Professors, where you can’t go past the waffles for some morning sustenance.

Not even a half-hour drive from Rockhampton, Mount Archer National Park is an unmissable slice of nature at its most majestic. You’ll feel on top of the world wandering through the trees on the Nurim Circuit Elevated Boardwalk, where the views of the surrounding hillsides are nothing short of spectacular.

Pumpkin Island

The Capricorn Way is a dry and challenging inland route, so before you bid adieu to the coast, you might want to make the most of the unique island getaway right on Rocky’s doorstep.

For eco-conscious travellers who like to occasionally indulge, Pumpkin Island Eco Retreat is a heavenly place to relax before you hit the road. Just off the coast of Yeppoon, Pumpkin Island is well worth the effort of getting there.

Duaringa

Dating back to the 1870s, Duaringa is one of the oldest towns in Tropical North Queensland and provides a fascinating glimpse into how outback living has evolved over the decades –consider this pit stop your gateway to the Central Queensland Highlands.

Today, fewer than 500 people call this outpost home, which makes it all the more interesting. Perhaps against all odds, this quiet patch of Australia boasts two key drawcards: Mackenzie Park’s distinctive budgeroo trees that only flower in spring, and the colony of flying foxes that refuses to leave the area (despite multiple attempts at relocation!).

To read more about the journey along the Capricorn Way, check out the Spring 2021 edition of Caravanning Australia.

Image (C) Tourism and Events Queensland