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Your Ultimate Guide to the Sunflower Fields in Brisbane
Picture yourself amidst a sea of golden petals so vast, even the bees are reaching for their GPS – that’s Brisbane’s sunflower fields for you!
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or just out for life’s simple joys, you’re welcome to join us on this sunny adventure.
Read on so we can unlock this radiant oasis together!
When is sunflower season in Brisbane?
Sunflower season in Brisbane typically kicks off during late spring and early summer, from January to April. It’s during this time that these radiant giants stretch toward the sun, showing off their full glory.
In addition, early mornings and late afternoons offer the perfect lighting for capturing these magnificent sunflowers.
But here’s the catch: sunflower blooming times are unpredictable sometimes due to Queensland’s ever-changing weather. They might show up a bit earlier or later than expected.
So, it’s best to stay tuned for updates from the local sunflower farms and enthusiasts – they’ll be your guiding stars, so you won’t miss the sunflowers at their peak.
Where are the sunflower fields in Brisbane?
As you set out to relax in the brilliance of Brisbane’s sunflower fields, your journey will unfold along the 50-km “Sunflower Trail,” known as Tourist Route 11.
This less-travelled road will lead you to a kaleidoscope of golden wonders, scattered across the Toowoomba and Warwick regions. These regions aren’t only home to sunflowers but they also boast a rich history that can add depth to your journey.
1. The Sunflower Route
The Sunflower Route Tourist Drive near Brisbane is a 50-kilometre (approximately 31 miles) journey that takes you on a delightful adventure through the Darling Downs.
This scenic route winds through quaint towns, open fields, and rolling hills, making it a perfect day trip from Brisbane or a memorable addition to your Queensland travel itinerary.
As you cross the Sunflower Route, you’ll encounter fields of sunflowers that stretch as far as the eye can see! These golden giants sway so gracefully, creating a captivating sight and the perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
While sunflowers are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the Sunflower Route also introduces you to charming towns and communities that define the Darling Downs region. Some notable stops along the way include:
- Warwick: Known for its historic buildings and rose gardens, Warwick welcomes visitors with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
- Allora: This small town boasts a rich history, including its claim to fame as the birthplace of Australian pioneering aviator Sir Charles Kingsford Smith.
- Clifton: This is a serene countryside where you can enjoy delightful picnics and leisurely walks.
As you embark on the Sunflower Route Tourist Drive, you just need to have a sense of adventure, a map, and a camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the sunflower fields and the timeless charm of the Darling Downs.
| Pro tips: Many sunflower fields are on private land, so guests should always respect property boundaries, follow posted rules, and avoid trampling the blooms. It’s advisable to confirm road conditions along the Sunflower Route, as some roads may be less suitable for certain vehicles or during wet weather. Plan your stops in advance too. This includes visits to charming towns and local produce stands to make the most of your Sunflower Route adventure in Brisbane. |
2. Scenic Rim Sunflower Fields
Address: 56 Warumkarie Road, Kalbar, QLD 4310, Australia
Website: https://www.scenicrimflowerfarm.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 418 736 588
Operating Hours: Opens only one weekend during Sunflower Festival
The Scenic Rim Flower Farm, affectionately known as the “home of the scenic rim flower field,” is a hidden gem just a stone’s throw away from Brisbane.
This picturesque farm is a testament to nature’s artistry, boasting meticulously cultivated fields of vibrant blooms that change with the seasons.
What sets Scenic Rim Flower Farm apart is its diverse range of flowers. From classic roses to exotic orchids, the farm nurtures a captivating variety of cut flowers, perfect for sprucing up your home or gifting to loved ones.
But the real magic lies in their meadow flowers, forming a whimsical, wildflower-inspired panorama that serves as a perfect wildflower-inspired landscape that’s a dream backdrop for your Instagram photos.
If you visit during the sun-kissed months of January to April, you’re in for a treat! The Kalbar Sunflower Festival is a local celebration that takes place in the Scenic Rim Flower Farm’s sprawling sunflower fields.
In the end, it’s best to check their social media pages and websites, especially for schedule changes and other updates, if any.
| Pro tip: Are you a pet owner? You’re in luck because the scenic Rim Flower Farm welcomes pets, making it an ideal destination for our furry companions. You may enjoy the beauty of the blooms together, but remember to keep your pets on a leash at all times to ensure their safety and that of other visitors. |
3. Kalbar Sunflower Farm
Address: 56 Warumkarie Road, Kalbar, QLD 4310, Australia
Website: https://kalbarsunflowers.com.au/
Operating Hours: Operates during the Kalbar Sunflower Festival around March or April
The Kalbar Sunflower Festival near Brisbane is a highly anticipated event that usually takes place during the sunflower blooming season around March and April. During the festival, visitors are treated to an extravaganza of activities set amidst the golden fields.
Aside from the chance to see a million sunflowers, visitors are greeted with delectable food and a dash of photography magic.
With the golden bloom as your canvas, this event is set to be a picture-perfect paradise, offering a plethora of exciting activities and experiences.
For those seeking inner peace amidst the sunflowers, there are yoga sessions for interested participants. Visitors can also enjoy the soothing sounds of sound healing meditation, offering an escape from the daily hustle and bustle in the city.
Meanwhile, you can unleash your inner artist through their art classes, where you can craft beautiful keepsakes to remember your day by.
The event boasts a revamped market area as well, featuring the perfect sunflower-themed gifts or souvenirs you can take home.
Thrill-seekers may also opt for an exhilarating helicopter ride! Don’t pass up this opportunity, as it provides a jaw-dropping aerial perspective of the sunflower fields and the picturesque countryside overall.
But the festival isn’t just for adults! They’ve got free kids’ entertainment each day, including face painting, bubbles, colouring, painting, crafts, and an upcoming addition – a special children’s fairy garden to delight the little sunflowers in your life.
| Pro tip: When ticket sales go live for the Kalbar Sunflower Festival, it’s advisable to set a reminder on your calendar and be ready to purchase early. Given the festival’s popularity and history of selling out in less than 24 hours, securing your tickets promptly will ensure you don’t miss out on this blooming extravaganza. |
4. Farm & Co
Address: 529 Cudgen Rd, Cudgen, NSW, Australia
Website: https://www.farmandco.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 2 6608 0010
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
A delightful half-day getaway awaits just beyond the New South Wales border! Within an hour and a half drive from Brisbane, you’ll stumble upon the charming Farm & Co., a beautiful, organic oasis.
Beyond the sunflower fields, Farm & Co. is a working farm that takes pride in cultivating a wide range of crops. From fruits and vegetables to herbs and flowers, the farm’s bounty reflects the rich diversity of the Australian countryside.
One of the farm’s standout features is its sunflower fields. For just $5, visitors may wander through these golden expanses and hand-pick their own sunflowers!
Other than that, weekends at Farm & Co. come alive with the arrival of the Land Rover coffee mobile. Here, you can enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a delicious treat while taking in the scenic beauty of the farm.
In addition, the farm offers a delightful shop filled with fresh produce harvested directly from the fields. From fruits and vegetables to jams and barn-made soups, you can take home a taste of the farm’s goodness.
To ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to visit during sunflower season or experience their other offerings, it’s handy to keep an eye on Farm & Co.’s social media pages.
| Pro tips: While Farm & Co. may offer card payment options, it’s a good idea to carry some cash. This is especially for the $5 sunflower picking fee or for purchases at the Land Rover coffee mobile.Farm & Co. is an excellent destination for group outings, so consider organising a gathering with friends or family to share the sunny experience. |
5. Norwell Sun Flowers
Address: 471 Norwell Rd, Norwell QLD 4208, Australia
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Check their social media pages for schedule updates.
Situated within easy reach of both Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Norwell Sun Flowers promises not only a captivating visual feast but also a strong dedication to education.
Here, you’re welcome to delve into a wealth of information about sunflowers, from their lifecycle and growth stages to the intricacies of harvesting these golden treasures.
On top of that, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to learn about the precise timing, techniques, and equipment involved in the delicate process of collecting sunflowers.
For those seeking a deeper understanding, Norwell Sun Flowers offers educational workshops and guided tours. These hands-on experiences allow visitors to interact with sunflowers and gain practical insights.
Of course, no visit to Norwell Sun Flowers would be complete without capturing the moment. The sunflower fields provide a captivating backdrop for photographers and enthusiasts, ensuring that your memories are as vibrant as the blooms.
| Pro tips: It’s best to dress comfortably when visiting the Norwell Sun Flowers in Brisbane, considering the weather and potential mud in the fields. Closed-toe shoes are also recommended for walking through the sunflower fields. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your visit too! The staff at Norwell Sunflowers are often eager to share their insights about sunflowers and agriculture. |
6. Ella’s Farm
Address: 217 McAllisters Rd, Bilambil Heights, NSW 2486, Australia
Website: https://ellasfarm.com.au/
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Check their social media pages for schedule updates.
Located on the Gold Coast, Ella’s Farm near Brisbane is a unique destination, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty while cultivating their own sustainable wisdom of growing sunflowers.
While the sunflowers may not be the main attraction themselves, the staff provides a captivating introduction to the farm’s multifaceted offerings.
Guests can explore a wide range of sustainable growing methods, including aquaponics systems, syntropic food forests, planted swales, and planter boxes.
Visitors can witness the various techniques used to cultivate crops while maintaining ecological balance.
If you’re visiting on a Friday, you’ll also get a chance to enjoy the farm’s bounty over the weekend. You may treat yourself to a farm-to-table experience that’s both educational and delicious!
For those eager to delve deeper into sustainable farming practices, Ella’s Farm offers a variety of courses and workshops as well. Participants can gain in-depth knowledge about food cultivation, resource conservation, and sustainable living.
Indeed, Ella’s Farm is a place of connection where visitors can embrace the beauty of sunflowers and learn essential skills. It’s an opportunity to appreciate sustainable living, resource management, and the rewards of nurturing the land.
| Pro tip: Consider purchasing farm-fresh produce or other products from the farm’s shop. This is a great way to give your loved ones a taste of your visit and support local agriculture. |
