Calliope is a historic gold-mining village 22 kilometres southwest of Gladstone on Queensland’s central coast. Often overlooked by people driving from Brisbane to Rockhampton via the Bruce Highway, the small country town boasts plenty of reasons to make a pit stop that are not limited to its perfect 25-degree year-round weather.
Take your pick from several family-friendly outings and enjoy the hospitality of the locals – and if you happen to be in Calliope on the last weekend of September, the annual rodeo attracts a huge crowd to raise funds for various local charities and sporting groups.
Historical Gems: Calliope Historical Village
Begin your journey in Calliope by delving into its rich history at the Calliope Historical Village. This living museum preserves the town’s heritage through a collection of well-preserved buildings and artifacts. Take a stroll through the village to explore the schoolhouse, post office, and other structures that reflect life in a bygone era. Engage with passionate volunteers who bring history to life with stories and demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the pioneering spirit of the region.
Culinary Delights: Local Eateries and Bakeries
Although a small town, Calliope boasts charming local eateries and bakeries that capture the essence of regional Queensland. Indulge in freshly baked goods, hearty country-style meals, and friendly hospitality at the town’s cafes and restaurants. Strike up a conversation with locals, and you might discover some hidden culinary gems that reflect the authenticity of Calliope’s dining scene. For the wine connoisseurs, Gecko Valley Winery’s rolling woodland with Mount Larcom in the background is the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of the renowned shiraz or special reserve Verdelho
Bushwalking and Nature Trails: Calliope Wilderness Trail
For nature enthusiasts, the Calliope Wilderness Trail is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Lace up your hiking boots and wander through the serene bushland, listening to the sounds of native birds and marvelling at the diverse flora. The trail offers varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes. Tondoon Botanic Gardens is one of Australia’s top 10 regional gardens, offering free weekly guided tours, cooking classes and bonsai workshops; while Lake Awoonga is a popular recreation area with a caravan park and playgrounds, where avid anglers fish for barramundi.
Calliope invites you to embrace a simpler way of life. Come and experience the heart and soul of this charming Queensland town, where every step reveals the beauty of regional Australia and the genuine hospitality of its people. Explore Calliope all year round with Choice Hotels.
