Discover Inglewood: Queensland’s Emerging Rural Escape
Tucked along the western stretch of the Cunningham Highway, Inglewood is a charming country town where wide‑open landscapes, flourishing agriculture and warm hospitality create an irresistible invitation to slow down and explore. Established in 1862, this South East Queensland gem is fast becoming known for its thriving olive industry, fragrant lavender fields, and easy access to some of the region’s most beautiful natural attractions.
Inglewood sits 91 kilometres east of Goondiwindi, 109 kilometres west of Warwick, and around 270 kilometres from Brisbane, making it an ideal stop on a road trip or a peaceful weekend getaway.
A Taste of the Region
Inglewood’s agricultural heritage is proudly on display everywhere you look. More than 340,000 olive trees blanket the surrounding countryside, with harvest season running from March to May—a wonderful time to see groves in full swing and sample fresh, local olive products. The town is also home to an award‑winning lavender farm, where the scent of blooming purple fields drifts on the breeze and handmade lavender goods tempt visitors to linger.
Beyond olives and lavender, the region supports a diverse rural economy producing sheep, cattle, timber, lucerne, grapes, and a wide variety of horticultural crops. It’s a destination where paddock‑to‑plate isn’t a trend—it’s a way of life.
Lake Coolmunda: A Waterside Playground
Just 12 kilometres east of Inglewood, Lake Coolmunda is the area’s hub for water‑based adventure and relaxation. Its calm, expansive waters are perfect for:
- Fishing—cast from the shore or launch a boat in search of golden perch, Murray cod and silver perch
- Picnicking—pretty lakeside spots offer shade, serenity and birdlife
- Kayaking and boating—ideal for families and nature lovers
- Wildlife watching—the lake is a haven for native birds and animals
Freshwater fishing is also abundant along the McIntyre Brook, giving anglers plenty of options to explore.
Things to Do in Inglewood
Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventure, local flavours or a dose of history, Inglewood offers a surprising variety of experiences:
- Tour an Olive Grove and learn how olives are grown, harvested and transformed into award‑winning oils
- Visit the Inglewood Museum to uncover stories of early settlers, tobacco farming and the region’s pioneering spirit
- Explore spring wildflowers, which blanket the countryside in vibrant colour
- Enjoy exceptional birdwatching, with species thriving around the lake, river and bushland
- Follow scenic tourist drives such as:
- The Tobacco Trail – tracing the region’s agricultural past
- Silverspur Trail – showcasing rugged landscapes and rural heritage
- Dumaresq River Road – a peaceful route along the river’s edge
How to Get There
Inglewood is easily accessed via the Cunningham Highway, making it a convenient stop between major regional centres.
- From Brisbane: approx. 270 km (around 3 hours’ drive)
- From Warwick: 109 km west
- From Goondiwindi: 91 km east
The drive itself is part of the experience—rolling farmland, big skies and classic Queensland country scenery accompany you the whole way.
Best Time to Visit
Inglewood is a year‑round destination, but certain seasons offer extra magic:
- March–May: Olive harvest season—perfect for grove tours and tastings
- Spring (Sept–Nov): Wildflowers bloom and the weather is ideal for outdoor exploring
- Summer: Great for water activities at Lake Coolmunda
- Winter: Crisp mornings, clear skies and cosy country hospitality
Why Inglewood Belongs on Your Travel List
Inglewood blends the authenticity of rural Queensland with the charm of emerging food and nature‑based tourism. It’s peaceful yet full of character, scenic yet grounded in real agricultural life. Whether you’re road‑tripping, seeking a quiet escape, or chasing new flavours and landscapes, Inglewood offers a refreshing change of pace.