Looking for a hidden gem that’s off the beaten path? Look no further than Kilcoy, a small country town in South-East Queensland that’s bursting with charm and adventure. A forty-five-minute drive from the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and less than two hours from Brisbane, Kilcoy is the perfect escape for anyone seeking a taste of rural life, without having to venture too far from the city.
Getting to Kilcoy
But with limited access by public transport, day-trippers will need their own wheels. This will heighten the adventure, as notable stops include Dayboro, Samsonvale, Mount Mee and Woodford (departing from Brisbane) - there’s no shortage of winding mountain roads, freshwater lakes, sweeping mountain views and artisan markets.
10 Gems – Things to See and Do in the Region
The Yowie, the Art Gallery, and Kilcoy Craft Cottage
Yowie Park is the first must-see destination that offers a glimpse into the town’s folklore and history. Local legend has it that Kilcoy was once home to the elusive Yowie, an Australian version of Sasquatch. This is celebrated by a life-size statue of the creature.
A short stroll through the park will take visitors around a pond with resident ducks and past displays that showcase the town’s heritage, including an old courthouse (that operates as an art gallery) and Kilcoy Craft Cottage (a 114-year-old red-cedar building).
But the real highlight is the statue. It’s a noteworthy photo opportunity to capture a quirky memory of a visit to the town nestled in the Somerset Region.
Somerset Dam
Then there’s Somerset Dam, a man-made lake (complete with a dam wall) that’s perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and a host of other water-based activities. With miles of shoreline, there’s room for everyone - an ideal opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life amid tranquil surrounds.
Pack a picnic and swimmers, bring a boat and jet ski (or hire them), and explore the lake’s coves and inlets. Whether a seasoned skier or simply someone looking for a place to unwind, Somerset Dam is the ideal destination for a day in the great outdoors.
The area around the dam can be particularly brilliant at dusk.
Bring a camera and walking shoes.
Save this article for future reference!
Kilcoy Historical Society Museum
What about history? The Kilcoy Historical Society Museum offers a window into the events of Kilcoy’s past. From ancient Aboriginal Australian artefacts to colonial-era relics, the museum’s collection narrates events as they occurred.
The Hall of History resides in an old, relocated church.
Kilcoy Racecourse
Horse races are a popular pastime in Kilcoy, with regular meets held throughout the year. The thundering hooves of galloping horses, the roar of spectators, and the mingling scents of hay and horse sweat create an atmosphere of anticipation on race day.
The Kilcoy Racecourse hosts around 10 events a year (typically on Saturdays). Dates vary, so it’s best to check the official website for up-to-date information.
Kilcoy Golf Club
For golf fanatics, enjoy a relaxing day on the links with rolling hills as a backdrop.
Kilcoy Golf Club boasts a licensed bar and a restaurant in addition to the course.
With 18 holes, this par-70 course offers a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
Villeneuve or Mount Kilcoy
One of the best ways to enhance the experience is by taking a scenic drive through Villeneuve or Mount Kilcoy (or both). Take in sunset views of Stanley River as it flows into Somerset Dam, free-standing trees emerging from the water silhouetted against a persimmon backdrop.
Or wind along Mount Kilcoy’s roads through grass and farmland teeming with wildlife and farm animals.
Note the fresh aroma, and breathe it in.
Watch out for koalas crossing the road.
Country Market
If passing through on the first Saturday of the month, stay a little longer in Yowie Park and collect a trinket from the Country Market - handmade crafts, jewellery, stellar coffee, and local sweets are regularly on offer.
Murals
Take a moment – while refuelling at BP – to admire the mural painted by well-known local artist Ross Holloway.
If time permits, head to Kilcoy Ambulance Station and admire the town’s second mural – a visual story of Kilcoy’s many and varied industries.
Exploring large artworks in small, rural towns can be a novel way of discovering unexpected talent and becoming immersed in local culture.
Where to Stay
Want to stay more than a day?
From cosy cabins (at Lake Somerset Holiday Park) to traditional lodgings (such as Kilcoy Gardens Motel, Kilcoy Motel and Exchange Hotel Kilcoy), accommodation choices cater to a variety of preferences and budgets.
For nature lovers, camping sites provide a unique chance to be immersed in rustic surrounds (with the odd animal dropping in for a visit).
Stay in a 125-year-old cottage at Somerset Sunset (between Kilcoy and Somerset Dam) and indulge in views of the lake on one side and mountains on the other.
Consider a farm stay at Yandilla, a favourite of bird-watching groups and nature afficionados alike. Wake up to wallabies, koalas, possums, and some reptiles. Secluded waterfalls and water holes are part of nature’s package at Yandilla.
Dining Options
Kilcoy may be small and rural, but it has dining options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
For classic pub grub, there’s no going past Kilcoy Exchange Hotel. A local favourite, meals are affordable, delicious and served in a laid-back atmosphere. There’s live music on some weekend nights and monthly karaoke. Opt to dine in the beer garden.
Family-owned and run Coff and Co Bakery is famous for delicious, freshly baked bread, hearty meat pies and tasty desserts, made with high-quality ingredients which are locally sourced wherever possible.
Open daily until mid-afternoon, Black Rack is a popular dining destination for those seeking a chic and stylish atmosphere, with modern décor and sleek furnishings (including a modern courtyard at the back). The menu features a variety of gourmet offerings, complemented by a selection of hot and cold drinks. With friendly and attentive service by Rory, Dan and their staff, little goes unnoticed.
Will you Visit?
What are you waiting for? Start planning a daytrip or, better still, a weekend escape to South-East Queensland’s very own slice of rustic charm.
