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The ultimate outback escape

The ultimate outback escape

12 November 2019

It was once the second largest city in Queensland, a bustling metropolis and the ultimate destination for those wanting to strike gold. Today, the charming outback town of Charters Towers, a short 1 hour 40 minute drive from Townsville, is a little more humble, with glimpses of yesteryear evidenced in the architecture and told through the stories of local legends. Driving along the streets of Charters Towers is like experiencing a living montage of Australia during the gold rush! Whilst gold was once the objective of visitors to this area, today, Charters Towers is rich in experiences, full of life and the ultimate place for an outback escape.

Spend a night in the luxury apartments of Kernow Charters Towers.
This converted mental asylum is now home to stunning accommodation rooms that are complete with outback vistas. With more expansion on the horizon this property will soon feature a crystal clear lagoon, tavern and glamping as well!

Kernows, Charters Towers

Visit JR and the Texas Longhorns.
You’ve donned your favourite pair of jeans and even whipped out a broad brim hat - well there’s no better place to really feel the country vibe than at Leahton Park, home to Charters Towers very own Texas Longhorns. Meet with owners Michael and Lynda and explore their working cattle station. Experience billy tea and take a ride on a horse drawn wagon to meet some of North Queensland’s most unique cattle, including 2013 world record holder for having the longest horns - JR. 

Texas Longhorns, Charters Towers

Get a glimpse into the ways of the golden days with a visit to the Venus Gold Battery.
It’s the largest and last surviving battery relic in Queensland and is jam packed with history!

Venus Gold Battery, Charters Towers

Behold historic art mosaics at Goldtower Central

Explore Charters Towers' historical and artistic hub at Goldtower Central. Conceptualised as a major retail precinct, owner Paul McIver has enhanced the precinct with street art, transforming the area into multi-layered experience.

This incredible open-air gallery features 'The World,' a seven-meter-high stainless steel globe celebrating the town's 150 years.

Embark on a treasure hunt for Peter Lawson's evocative 1980s paintings transformed into mega mosaics, showcasing grand architecture and gold rush era street scenes throughout Goldtower.

Wrap up your tour with the Charters Towers Wall of History 1872-1922, Australia's largest mosaic, vividly portraying the gold discovery and rush. Crafted by artist Trisha Lambi with over five million hand-cut tiles, it's a stunning tribute to Charters Towers' heritage.

History, outback and a pub on every corner!
Grab a cold one and enjoy the cool evening breeze at one of several pubs on offer in Charters Towers.

Historical buildings, Charters Towers

Burn off the carbs with a stroll up Towers Hill.
Early morning at sunrise is the best time to spot rock wallabies and experience the golden rays poking over the horizon. With interactive exhibitions along the walk, you’ll be discovering great stories and also clocking up those 10,000 steps #multitasking.

Towers Hill, Charters Towers

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