You don’t have to travel far out of Brisbane to feel like you’re out in yesteryear, and charming Dayboro is the ultimate proof of that. A scenic 50-minute drive from Brisbane, has plenty of quirky cafés, local craft and antique stores, and history to offer. Known for its warm and welcoming spirit, the township’s rich past can be appreciated in every picturesque corner and old building.
When you arrive, Dayboro’s main street will greet you, with plenty of charming and historic buildings, including the Crown Hotel, the town’s pub, which sits beneath two century-old fig trees and is as inviting as it sounds. You will also most likely notice locals riding horses down the street, as this is still fairly common in town.
If you’re looking for something homey for breakfast, the Dayboro Bakery is renowned in the area for it’s incredibly flavourful meat pies and flaky croissants. Another great option is the Dayboro Drop, with its beautiful Queenslander verandah and local-approved parmigiana.
Did you happen to visit on a rainy day or simply find yourself wanting to take it easy? Rendevouz at Dayboro, a cosy country café, bookstore and gift shop all rolled into one is the perfect place to while away the hours.
Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention The Old Storehouse, whose refurbished country cottage interior screams “welcome”. Browse their deli goods, colourful flowers and artisan baked treats — especially their cakes — and then stay a while for their satisfying all-day breakfast, top-notch sourdough and, of course, coffee.
Despite its small size, Dayboro has a thriving arts scene and lots to be proud of, so local masterpieces are on display at the Dayboro Art Gallery, and in must-see Dayboro Butter Factory, which is now known as The Churn Room, and houses a stunning collection of handmade pieces, with a local artists and artisans often in residence, and even hosting workshops!
Want to learn more about the town itself? The Dayboro Cottage is home to the Dayboro Historical Society, and they’ll be able to tell you all about the town’s history, including its name changes — it was first named Hamilton after an officer, and then Terrors Creek after an Arab stallion named Terah, before settling on Dayboro after an early settler, William Henry Day — and hand you a Historical Town Walk brochure for a self-guided tour of the town’s oldest buildings.
The relaxing atmosphere of the town will have you unwinding in no time, and to cap off a perfect day, you can take a short drive to Ocean View Estates for long lunch in their lakeside restaurant and plenty of wine.
The Cedar Creek swimming holes are a perfect place to visit if you find yourself with extra time on your hands. Only about a 20-minute drive from Dayboro, this tranquil and refreshing spot can be reached after a somewhat challenging — though still fun — walk, is dog-friendly, and even offers the opportunity to see some gorgeous waterfalls!