Rockhampton, Queensland is a popular destination itself, being rich in history and culture. However, not a lot know about this aside from the fact that it is one of the largest cities in the state and that it is considered a hub for activity in the region. When he’s not busy doing the best pressure washing Rockhampton has to offer, Scott of Capricorn House Washing says he loves to get away and enjoy the bush or the incredible waters at Yeppoon. “There’s so much diversity on the doorstep here in Rocky!”
Whether you are from the area and fed up with the usual stuff or a tourist wanting a relaxing rural escape after experiencing performing arts, heritage villages, art galleries, bars, and restaurants in this side of Australia, you don’t have to go far. There are a lot of good places to stay and to try countryside life with only a short drive from Rockhampton.
Where to Have a Farmstay Near Rockhampton?
4Mile Farm
If you are a resident of Rockhampton, you really do not have to go far to experience authentic farm life. Just a 10-minute drive south of this city lies a picturesque farmland of about 104 acres. It is a working farm with lagoons where you can swim and a few seasonal creeks, and where you can immerse yourself into its actual operations.
It offers actual lessons about horse riding and other programs like the Horses Helping Humans program, Stable to Stable program, Everything Farm program, etc. that are being offered all year round. These are very essential parts of your learning about rural farm operations, as well as life skills.
However, if you just want to have to have a breath of fresh air, relax, and enjoy nature, you are most welcome to do so. Interact or feed the animals, pony pamper sessions, learn to horse ride, do picnics and have BBQs. Activities are open to families, groups, camps, team buildings, and even private bookings.
Alkoomi Adventure Farm Stay
If you are up for some hands-on experience in an Aussie farm rather than just taking time off from your hectic city schedule, this is the perfect spot. Located in Marmor, QLD, about 35 kms. south of Queensland’s Beef Capital, or about a 30-minute drive, it offers activities that guarantee unforgettable memories for every age of its guests.
Alkoomi Adventure Farm Stay is a fully working farm with animals that roam around freely on the property. Activities to choose from include horse riding, motorbike riding, animal feeding, kayaking, swimming, Chuck Wagon sunset tour, and mountain biking, among others.
To complete the farm experience, how about having a wood fired BBQ or cooking your food through a camp oven pit? It has readily available Alkoomi Beef BBQ packs should you need them anytime. The best part is that the firewood is absolutely free.
Hedlow Retreat
This is situated within the 14 hectares property known for its scenery of lush hinterland that’s not far off from Rockhampton as it will only take you 25 minutes of driving up to its location in Barmoya, Livingstone Shire, Queensland. It also boasts of its spectacular backdrop consisting of hardened volcanic magma and expansive landscapes that will surely leave you in awe.
A family-owned property, Hedlow Retreat is intended to be a secluded haven for individuals, couples, families, or groups to have a private space to unwind and be one with nature. It can also serve as a function venue for different occasions and events like weddings, receptions, retreats, teambuilding, etc.
Its onsite canopy opens out to well-manicured lawns that stretch all the way to the Hedlow Creek banks. These lead to the freshwater that’s so inviting for swimming and kayaking activities. Accommodation options include one-bedroom cabins, studio cabins, and Hedlow lodge rooms, which can accommodate a total of 25 persons at a time.
Myella Farmstay
Just an hour and a half hour drive from Rockhampton to Kokotungo, Queensland where it is located, this 2600-acre cattle property offers a variety of farm activities that guests looking to unwind would really enjoy. It offers modern facilities in the property while still maintaining its old-fashioned aesthetics which it has been known for since it opened over 30 years ago, living up to its country vibe that people wanting some moment off the grid are seeking for.
Owned and operated by a genuine farming family, it offers various farm activities such as horse riding, animal feeding, riding in a 4WD, stargazing, bushwalking, and even campfire, among others.
One selling point of this farm is its guarantee to spot kangaroos during your stay. Accommodations include air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, a swimming pool, and home-cooked food.
Shiralee Clydesdales & Farm Stay
Just 15 minutes drive from Rockhampton, this farmstay is located in Nankin, Livingston Shire. This Prado Downs horse spelling farm is also home to Shiralee Clydesdale Stud. Despite functioning as a full-operational farm, it offers a camping site with accommodation for guests wanting to take a break from city life.
Choices include a fully self-contained cabin with two bedrooms or a Winnebago camper that’s also fully self-contained. While staying there, you can take advantage of the free activities like collecting eggs, feeding the horses, and patting the foals. You can also drink around a communal campfire and use a smaller fire pit for privacy.
Also available is a horse-drawn carriage ride that comes with extra fees. Some of the best months to come are between March and September as more activities are available.