Craving an Outback escape but on borrowed time?

Take a weekend escape to Roma

Think an Outback escape requires a week off work and hundreds of kilometres of driving? Think again.

With direct flights from Brisbane to Roma, a hire car waiting at the airport and some unforgettable experiences within easy reach, you can trade the city for the Outback in just a few hours with a trip to Queensland’s South West.

Roma is the perfect launchpad for your Outback adventure, putting you within easy reach of some of Western Queensland’s most memorable experiences.

Whether your idea of a great weekend involves discovering local spirits, exploring ancient landscapes, discovering Queensland’s pioneering history or simply trading the city hustle for something a little slower, Roma is the type of destination that lets you build your own itinerary and experiences.

Here’s our go-to guide for a weekend in the South West.

For the food lover: local flavours with an Outback twist

One of the best things about heading west is discovering that Outback Queensland rewards curious foodies.

A highlight of the trip is Western Queensland Spirit, a small-batch gin distillery creating spirits inspired by the region and its native ingredients. This relaxing property is the perfect place to settle in for a tasting, enjoy a grazing platter and even try your hand at a cocktail-making masterclass.

You can also stay overnight beside the distillery at Grapeview Cottage. Wander among sheep paddocks, sip a gin as the sun sets and wake to the sounds of the bush. The cottage can accommodate couples, families or small groups. Every guest aged 18+ also receives a complimentary tasting at the distillery.

Just a short drive south of Roma is St George, home to Queensland’s westernmost winery. Set beside the Balonne River, Riversands Winery produces boutique whites, sparkling and fortified wines, with tastings and light meals available via its onsite café and cellar door.

If a coldie and hearty pub meal are high on your agenda, the region also boasts a number of well-respected watering holes, including the iconic Nindigully Pub. The Mucka Bup (you read that right), The Club Hotel and Queens Arms, both in Roma, are also highly rated.

For the nature lover: ancient landscapes and lost worlds

For lovers of the great outdoors or those keen to immerse themselves in the ancient history of the region, point your GPS north of Roma towards Arcadia Valley.

An overnight stay at Wallaroo Outback Retreat is highly recommended. Located approximately 160km from Roma, this vast cattle property is home to boutique glamping and unforgettable nature experiences.

The property is a great base for intrepid travellers, with eco-certified tour operator Boobook Explore having exclusive access to the Carnarvon Ranges located on the property.

Take Boobook’s Lost World Carnarvons tour and be taken deep into the hidden landscapes of the property. Expert guides will reveal towering sandstone formations, ancient Aboriginal rock art and remarkable pockets of vegetation and wildlife, including prehistoric cycads.

Beyond Wallaroo, Arcadia Valley is also home to some of the region’s most dramatic scenery, with gorges and vast views stretching across the countryside.

The valley is lesser known than the nearby Carnarvons but is equally as spectacular, with vibrant green brigalow country encased by towering sandstone cliffs. It’s a breathtaking hidden gem that can be explored via 4WD.

Take the Arcadia Valley Self-Drive Loop and be sure to pack your camera for Lonesome Lookout.

For the history buffs: a rich pioneering history

Roma and its surrounding townships are also home to a rich pioneering history, with a number of experiences that will thrill history buffs.

In Roma, The Big Rig tells the story of Australia’s oil and gas industry, beginning with the discovery of natural gas at Roma in 1900. Explore the Oil Patch Museum, learn about the people and technology behind the industry and climb the tower for a different perspective over the town.

The Roma Butter Factory Museum is also worthy of a visit. Housed in Roma’s original butter factory building, this community-run museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the industries and everyday life that helped shape Roma and the surrounding region.

You can also take a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of Outback Queensland’s essential services at LifeFlight Roma.  This free experience brings the world of aeromedical rescue to life with interactive exhibits and tours. If it’s not out on a mission, you’ll be able to view the AW139 rescue helicopter – you can even take a seat in the helicopter simulator and experience what it’s like to be a LifeFlight pilot for your self.

Surat’s Cobb & Co Changing Station is also worthy of the short drive from Roma.

The heritage-listed building recalls the days when Cobb & Co coaches connected Queensland’s isolated communities, changing horses along the way as passengers, mail and news travelled across the country.

Getting to Roma is surprisingly easy

Fly direct to Roma from Brisbane with Rex Airlines, then pick up a hire car when you arrive (make sure you pre-book your hire car in advance).

The flight takes around an hour, meaning you can leave Brisbane in the morning and be exploring Western Queensland that same day. A hire car will give you the freedom to not only explore Roma but also the hidden gems that await in the nearby townships and attractions of St George, Surat and Arcadia Valley.

Prefer a road trip? Roma is around five-and-a-half hours’ drive west of Brisbane, making it an achievable destination for a long weekend without spending your entire break behind the wheel.

When to visit

For outdoor adventures, March to October is an excellent time to explore this part of Outback Queensland, with temperatures more comfortable for getting out and exploring.

Winter brings crisp mornings, cool evenings and spectacular night skies, while spring is a particularly beautiful time to explore the region as the landscape starts to warm up.

If Wallaroo and Boobook Explore are high on your list, check tour dates and availability before booking, as experiences operate on selected dates.

Summer can also be rewarding, but temperatures can be high, so plan outdoor activities carefully and carry plenty of water.

Whenever you go, check individual operators for opening hours, tour dates and bookings before setting off.

Download our Outback Travellers Guide to start planning your Roma trip.