Outback Road Trip: Gracemere to Mount Isa via Longreach with Overnight Car Stay

Day 1: Long Day Drive

Gracemere to Longreach, Australia on July 12, 2025

8:00am

Depart Gracemere

Begin your drive from Gracemere heading west along the Landsborough Highway towards Longreach, planning plenty of breaks for comfort during this 700 km journey.
Fuel costs vary, 11h0m

12:00pm

Lunch Break at Barcaldine

Stop in Barcaldine at Barcoo Coffeeworks to enjoy a light meal and coffee before continuing west.
AUD20, 1h0m

6:30pm

Arrive in Longreach - Settle in for Overnight Car Stay

Arrive in Longreach and find a safe, designated overnight parking area to sleep in your car. Consider the Longreach Showgrounds or a rest area; ensure to check local regulations.
Free or minimal parking fees, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Flinders Steakhouse

Grab dinner at Flinders Steakhouse, open till 9pm on Saturdays, serving quality steaks and outback dishes to fuel up for the next day.
AUD40, 1h30m

Day 2: Mount Isa Journey

Longreach to Mount Isa, Australia on July 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Goods Coffee Shop

Start your day with a hearty breakfast and great coffee at The Goods Coffee Shop to prepare for your final drive.
AUD20, 45m

7:45am

Drive to Mount Isa

Depart Longreach for Mount Isa, enjoying the scenic 500 km drive westward along the Landsborough Highway.
Fuel costs vary, 6h0m

2:00pm

Check-in at Red Earth Motel

Arrive in Mount Isa and settle into your accommodation for a comfortable stay while exploring the region.
AUD120 per night, 30m

3:00pm

Mount Isa Mines Lookout

Visit the iconic viewpoint overlooking the extensive mining operation, offering impressive views and photographic opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Sandwich Shop

Enjoy casual and fresh sandwiches and meals made from local ingredients to end your day comfortably.
AUD25, 1h0m

Day 3: Wildlife and Heritage

Mount Isa, Australia on July 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe 1923

Indulge in a well-rounded breakfast with quality coffee at Cafe 1923 to energise for the day ahead.
AUD22, 1h0m

9:00am

Outback at Isa

Explore native Australian wildlife including kangaroos and reptiles in a relaxed setting from 9am to 5pm.
AUD15, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Outback Steakhouse

Experience classic Australian steakhouse fare at lunchtime, a great way to fuel your adventures.
AUD35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Mount Isa Mining Museum

Discover Mount Isa’s mining history through interactive exhibits; open weekdays 9am-4pm.
AUD12, 2h0m

5:00pm

Buchanan Park to Sunset

Relax at this spot for panoramic views and to catch the stunning outback sunset which is a must-see experience.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Red Earth Restaurant

Dine on fresh, local produce in an elegant setting at Red Earth Restaurant, open till 9pm for a memorable meal.
AUD50, 2h0m

Day 4: Local Culture

Mount Isa, Australia on July 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Mt Isa Bakery

Start with traditional Aussie pies, pastries, and coffee from this local favourite bakery.
AUD15, 45m

9:00am

Mount Isa Rodeo Grounds Tour

Visit the iconic rodeo grounds to understand the culture of this important outback event; inquire about tour availability.
Free or event fees apply, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch at The Rex Hotel

Enjoy classic pub fare with a relaxed outback vibe to recharge midday.
AUD30, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lake Moondarra Visit

Spend your afternoon relaxing by the scenic Lake Moondarra, perfect for walking, birdwatching or fishing.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Two Rivers Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy fine dining with spectacular views in a refined setting; open until 9pm for a memorable evening.
AUD60, 2h0m

Day 5: Final Mount Isa Day

Mount Isa, Australia on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fresh to Go

Light breakfast with fresh juices and smoothies to start your last full day in outback Australia.
AUD20, 45m

9:00am

Mount Isa City Walking Tour

Explore local art, shops, and landmarks at your own pace in the town centre.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Blue Buddha

Savour Asian fusion cuisine in a casual setting for a delicious lunch break.
AUD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Afternoon Rest

Relax and prepare for your trip home with some downtime or a gentle stroll.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Brickhouse Bar & Grill

Conclude your trip with premium steaks and drinks in a lively setting, open until 10pm.
AUD55, 2h0m

Day 6: Return Journey

Mount Isa to Gracemere, Australia on July 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a convenient breakfast before starting the return drive to Longreach.
Included, 30m

7:45am

Drive Mount Isa to Longreach

Retrace your route back to Longreach, allowing time for scenic stops and breaks over the 500 km journey.
Fuel costs vary, 6h0m

1:30pm

Lunch Break on Route

Stop for lunch at roadside facilities or in a small town en route to keep refreshed.
AUD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive Longreach to Gracemere

Complete the final 700 km leg home to Gracemere with breaks as required for a comfortable journey.
Fuel costs vary, 7h0m