Capricorn Coast and Southern Self Drive Discovery

The Capricorn Coast lies on the Tropic of Capricorn, for which it is named, and it sweeps along the Pacific Ocean in Central . The region enjoys warm summers and mild winter temperatures and shares its latitude with Rio de Janeiro to the east and Mauritius to the west.

North of Fraser Island and south of the Whitsunday Islands, is the region’s major centre and with it’s exciting history, stunning architecture from days gone by and splashes of natural beauty, it is arguably one of Queensland’s most attractive cities. Classy boutique stores, elegant restaurants, and casual coffee shops are everywhere - this regional city has become a metropolitan hub for the district.

The Capricorn Coast has one of the most spectacular bays of islands in . Keppel Bay is made up of some 20 islands and within a short 30 minute ferry transfer from the mainland, you will be snorkelling and exploring one of the most spectacular sections of the Great Barrier Reef.

Discover the lush forests of Byfield and surrounding nature reserves just north of . The Byfield National Park and State Forest abound with wonderful scenery, rolling sand dunes, beaches, rainforest edged creeks and rugged mountains. Relax in one of the many freshwater rainforest swimming holes or choose to explore further on one of the many short walking trails.

Rising out of Rockhampton's north-eastern suburbs, Mt Archer National Park provides magnificent views of the city, and showcases a spectacular range of native Australian flora and fauna. Frazer Park at the summit of Mt Archer is approximately 604 meters above sea level. Itinerary Day One - 400 km - Fraser Island to Rockhampton - 4hrs 30 minutes (Mainland departure point is Hervey Bay) After your stay on Fraser Island, cross back to the mainland by ferry for your drive North to Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast. Rockhampton is arguably one of Queensland’s most attractive cities. Stunning architecture of days gone by, the awe inspiring Capricorn Caves, Mt Archer National Park, Rockhampton Botanical Gardens and Zoo and the picturesque Capricorn Coast Scenic Drive are just some of the main attractions.

If you time it right you may be in town for the weekly rodeo at the Great Western Hotel and don’t forget, not only is Rockhampton near the coast, it is also the Beef Capitol of Australia. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from and you can expect to find high quality local produce.

Budget Option - Capricorn Caves Cabin Moderate Option - Rosslyn Bay Resort Superior Accommodation City - The Edge Apartments Superior Accommodation Coastal - Oshen Yeppoon

Day Two - Explore the Capricorn Coast Enjoy a guided tour of the Capricorn Caves before heading to beautiful Rosslyn Bay on the Capricorn Coast. Set right on the coast, Rosslyn Bay is the gateway for cruises and charters to and Southern Great Barrier Reef. If you are not already staying at Rosslyn Bay Resort it is the perfect place for lunch before a dip in the Coral Sea. A visit to the local fisherman’s market is also a must.

Day Three - 482km (5 hrs 45 mins) Awake to a sunrise that will take your breath away before enjoying a coffee along Rockhampton’s Riverbank Precinct or overlooking the sparkling waters of Rosslyn Bay and surrounds. If exploring in the early morning keep an eye out for the ever popular Eastern Grey Kangaroo, as they are in abundance in these areas of regional Queensland. Mid morning bid farewell and continue north to the Whitsundays. }}}

Port Douglas Great Barrier Reef

Cairns

Mission Beach to Cairns 146km

Mission Beach

Whitsundays to Mission Beach 510km

Townsville

Airlie Beach

Proserpine Great Barrier Reef

Mackay Rockhampton to The Whitsundays 482km

Rockhampton Yeppoon Coral Sea

Hervey Bay to Rockhampton Bundaberg 400km

Hervey Bay

Brisbane to Hervey Bay/ Fraser Island Sunshine Coast 289km

Brisbane