Your 2-night hinterland bucket list

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Two nights. One charming country town. Plenty to tick off the bucket list. Our Childers itinerary takes you through rolling hills, local wines, unforgettable animal encounters and plenty of country charm. Just over three hours from Brisbane, your hinterland getaway is closer than you think.

DAY 1

All creatures great and small

Kick off your Childers escape with a walk on the wild side at Snakes Downunder Reptile Park & Zoo. Handfeed friendly kangaroos, cuddle curious koalas or get up close with scaly snakes. Then, watch on as impressive saltwater crocodiles tuck into their afternoon feed. There’s something for every animal lover.

Try: Spend time with one of the zoo’s cheekiest animals and book a private meerkat encounter.

Let’s do lunch

After a morning of wild encounters, you’ll sure to be searching for that perfect lunchtime treat. Take the short drive into the Childers center and stop in at Insane Caffeine. This quirky café is a popular spot for locals with meals that will have you writing home about. Think rich spiced pumpkin soup, crispy buttermilk chicken burgers, and mouthwatering malt caramel cheesecake.

Try: Sit outside to admire the breathtaking mural painted by Insane Caffeine family member, Ella.

Check-in

Right in the heart of town, you’ll find the Childers Oasis Motel. Close to shops and cafes, it’s the perfect spot to base your hinterland stay. They even have their own Espresso Bar, great for that morning pick-me-up.

You’re the wine that I want

Spend the afternoon sipping your way through the rolling hills of Childers. Start at Vintner’s Secret Vineyard, where a six-acre vineyard and cellar door await at the top of the hill. Taste your way through the range, soak up the countryside and pick a favourite or two. Then, head to nearby Hill of Promise Winery for a grape-to-glass experience at this family-owned winery. Just make sure there’s room in the boot for a bottle to take home.

Try: Bring a picnic basket and take a moment to enjoy the wineries’ beautiful hinterland views and expansive grounds.

Good food, great company

After your day touring this beautiful part of the world, take a quick drive to Apple Tree Creek to dine in at the delicious Mollydookers. Thanks to the owners’ Canadian roots, everything at this popular café and bar from their extensive menu to the quirky décor and the ice hockey playing on the TVs has been inspired by Canada.

Try: Be transported to another country without leaving the region and taste traditional Canadian Poutine with real cheese curd.

*Pre-booking for dining in is required. Keep an eye on Mollydookers’ Facebook for updates and opening hours.

DAY 2

But first, coffee

Put a spin on your morning coffee and take a leisurely stroll along the heritage laced main street of Childers. Resembling days long gone, the beautifully coloured mason buildings are a true sight to behold. Along the way, be sure to keep a look out for the original Post Office. Built over a century ago now, this is the oldest building in the whole town.

Soon enough you’ll be met with a Childers icon, The Paragon Theatre. Luckily for you, inside this magnificent, heritage-listed theatre is an Espresso Bar and the perfect way to start your second day exploring the town.

Try: Take a seat at the Espresso Bar and take in the history of this unique building over a delicious morning tea.

History of the ages

There’s no need to grab the car this morning, continue your morning walk to the Military and Memorabilia Museum. With thousands upon thousands of military pieces on display from countries all over the world, this museum is one for the books.

Try: Look out for the wall of photographs of the men and women who have heroically served the country, you can even bring your own photograph to add to the collection.

(Credit: Bundaberg Photographer Paul Beutel)

Satisfy your taste buds

Good news folks, it’s time for lunch! Along the main street, you’ll find a wealth of cafes serving up delicious food using the fresh, local produce that is grown in this rich agricultural area.

Try: If you feel like sitting amongst the great outdoors, pick up some takeaway from one of the cafes and grab a picnic table at Millennium Park in the centre of the main street. There’s even a playground for the little ones to run off some steam.

Medicinal Marvels

Now that your belly is full and taste buds happy, wander over to the fascinating Old Pharmacy. One of the largest collections of early pharmaceutical history in all of Australia, you’ll have the chance to inspect mysterious potions and discover rare specimens from over 100 years ago.

Try: Recently celebrating the building’s 125th year anniversary, be sure to take in the old-worldly architecture of this stunning mason building.

Colour your world

The Childers Art Space is a hub for all things cultural and creative in the town. From travelling exhibitions from throughout the country to shows featuring the works of talented locals, visiting the free gallery is a must-do. You can even find one of the best views of all of Childers from the gallery’s private balcony.

Try: Learn the stories of the backpackers who tragically lost their lives due to arson in the very building the gallery is housed at the Palace Backpacker Memorial, attached to the gallery.

Home is where the food is

End your perfect day in the most perfect way by enjoying dinner at one of the local hotels. Serving up delicious, hearty meals, we can guarantee you won’t go back to your accommodation hungry after tonight’s meal.

Try: All the local hotels are in walking distance from your accommodation at the Childers Oasis Motel so there’s no need to jump in the car tonight.

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