Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Queensland, Australia, Lake Wivenhoe stands as a serene oasis, beckoning travelers and nature enthusiasts alike. This man-made reservoir, located just a short drive from Brisbane, offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing visitors with an array of outdoor activities and breathtaking vistas. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the wonders of Lake Wivenhoe and explore why it has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
Spillway Common lookout, Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
I opt for these sneakers for walks like these; they’re available in various colors, but the White 130 is my favorite as it complements any outfit I wear. Find it here on Amazon
Time to explore
- The Creation of Lake Wivenhoe
Lake Wivenhoe owes its existence to the completion of the Wivenhoe Dam in 1984, primarily constructed for flood control and water supply purposes. It sits majestically on the Brisbane River, spanning a vast area of over 1,000 hectares. Since its inception, the lake has evolved into a multifaceted recreational paradise that caters to various interests.
It’s a must-have in my backpack! This North Face jacket ensures you stay dry while also feeling comfortably warm (unlike many others that can make you feel like you’re in a sauna). Find it here on… Amazon
- Embracing Nature: Flora and Fauna
The surroundings of Lake Wivenhoe boast diverse flora and fauna, offering a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. The pristine forests that fringe the lake are home to a myriad of native Australian bird species, including rainbow lorikeets, kookaburras, and cockatoos. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the iconic Australian platypus or freshwater turtles basking in the sun.
In Australia, prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburn easily. Hence, I make sure to have a hat and sunscreen with me at all times. Find it here on Amazon hat, Amazon sunscreen.
- Water Activities Galore
For water enthusiasts, Lake Wivenhoe is an aquatic playground offering an array of activities. The calm and clear waters create the perfect environment for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Anglers can cast their lines for a chance to catch Australian bass, golden perch, or silver perch, making it a paradise for fishing aficionados.
I keep a reusable water bottle handy as I prefer not to purchase and discard plastic ones. There’s a water fountain located just outside the restrooms where you can easily refill your bottle. Find it here on Amazon
- Camping and Picnicking
Lake Wivenhoe is an ideal spot for camping and picnicking with family and friends. Several well-maintained campgrounds dot the lakeshore, providing campers with stunning vistas and access to basic amenities. Gather around a crackling campfire under a blanket of stars, and you’ll experience the true essence of outdoor camping.
For day visitors, numerous picnic spots with shaded areas and BBQ facilities invite you to indulge in a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature’s beauty. Whether you’re having a family outing or a romantic escapade, Lake Wivenhoe offers the perfect setting for a memorable picnic experience.
I rely on this mosquito spray outdoors, especially near water, as mosquitoes are drawn to it. Perfect for deterring insects. Discover it on..Amazon
- Hiking and Bushwalking
The lake’s environs also cater to hikers and bushwalkers, with various trails weaving through the nearby forested hills. These trails offer a chance to witness the breathtaking scenery from different vantage points. The more adventurous can venture on the Northshore Trail, which meanders along the lake’s edge, providing glimpses of its tranquil beauty from various angles.
For walks like these, I rely on Merrell Moab hiking boots, available for both men and women. Explore them on Amazon
This backpack is ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
- Environmental and Educational Significance
Lake Wivenhoe plays a crucial role in flood mitigation for the Brisbane region, preventing potential disasters during heavy rainfall. Additionally, the lake serves as a primary water supply source for Brisbane and surrounding areas, highlighting its vital role in sustaining the region’s population.
Furthermore, visitors can learn about the ecological significance of the area through guided tours and educational centers that focus on the conservation of natural resources.
My choice for destinations like this lookout? The versatile Sony DSC-HX99 compact camera. Boasting an 18.2 MP sensor and an impressive 24-720mm zoom range, it effortlessly captures wide landscapes and distant subjects. Its 4K video capability ensures stunning quality, and the touchpad offers intuitive control. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a traveler seeking a feature-rich camera, the DSC-HX99 excels in delivering high-resolution imagery and videos. Explore it on Amazon for exceptional performance across different settings.
Lake Wivenhoe, Queensland, truly embodies the essence of a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking tranquility in a beautiful setting. With its pristine waters, diverse wildlife, and ample recreational opportunities, this man-made marvel continues to captivate the hearts of all who visit. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a tourist exploring the wonders of Queensland, Lake Wivenhoe promises an unforgettable experience, leaving you with cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Packing suggestions for Lake Wivenhoe
Sunscreen: With a potent SPF but without the oily sensation of other sunscreens, it’s a game-changer when you’re out in the sun, especially on those active, sunny days! Take a look here on… Amazon
A reliable Rain Jacket: North Face. It’s a must-have in our backpack! This North Face jacket ensures you stay dry while also feeling comfortably warm (unlike many others that can make you feel like you’re in a sauna). Find it here on… Amazon
Mosquitoes Spray: Ideal for repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Explore it on… Amazon
Day Pack: Osprey Talon 22: Ideal for walks to store water bottle, sunscreen and is lightweight. Check on Amazon
Hiking Boots: Merrell Moab: For men and women. Check them out on Amazon
Reusable water bottle: To steer clear of disposable plastic, take a look at them on… Amazon
Sunhat: Aqua Classic represents a technically refined, sun-protective swim fabric resistant to chlorine and saltwater, featuring a modest 4-way stretch. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and exceptionally comfortable. Check them out on Amazon Amazon This one is waterproof and is for both women and men Amazon
Band Aid: I always carry a pack of band aid when walking for blisters and cuts. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera: This camera is my go-to for capturing photos and shooting 4K videos of wildlife. Check them out on Amazon
Nikon Coolpix P950 Camera Bundle: This camera bundle includes Triple Battery + Deco Gear Backpack Bag Case + Filter Kit + Photo Video Software and Accessories, all with the same camera model. Check them out on Amazon
Compact Camera: The Sony DSC-HX99 is a versatile and powerful compact camera. With its 18.2 MP sensor and a remarkable 24-720mm zoom range, capturing both wide-angle landscapes and distant subjects is effortless. Its 4K video capability ensures stunning video quality, while the touchpad provides intuitive control. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a traveler seeking a compact yet feature-rich camera, the DSC-HX99 delivers exceptional performance for capturing high-resolution images and videos in various settings. Check them out on Amazon
Binoculars: The MIQXUAS Night Vision Binoculars offer impressive performance for various activities like stargazing, bird watching, concerts, sports events, sightseeing, and hunting. With a 60X60 magnification power and a range of up to 10,000 meters, these binoculars deliver excellent clarity and detailed visuals. The waterproof design ensures durability and reliability in various weather conditions.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, these binoculars provide a clear view even in low-light environments. However, while they offer night vision capabilities, the quality might not match higher-end specialized night vision devices. The included carrying bag adds convenience for portability.
Overall, these binoculars are a solid choice for multiple outdoor activities, offering good value for their price point. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: This tool is ideal for extended hikes and overnight stays in the wilderness, equipped with a torch, camping knife, fire starter, light stick, wire saw, and a Paracord bracelet featuring a fire scrapper, whistle, and compass. Check them out on Amazon
First Aid Kit: I opt for this one during short hikes, as it’s smaller and fits more comfortably in my backpack. Check them out on Amazon
Public Toilets:
Public Toilet Hamon Cove Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
Public Toilet Lumley Hill Campground Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
Public Toilet Logan Inlet Day Use Area Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
Public Toilet McGRATHS BAY Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
Public Toilet WIVENHOE HILL TRAILS Sheepstation Inlet Rd, Wivenhoe Hill QLD 4311
Public Toilet Spillway Lookout Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
Public Toilet BILLIES BAY Lake Wivenhoe QLD 4311
Places to get food:
Blue Teapot Cafe1 Railway St, Coominya QLD 4311, Hours: Monday to Friday 5:30am to 7pm, Saturday and Sunday 6am to 7pm, Phone: (07) 5426 4131
Tyson Foods Australia 26 Coominya Connection Rd, Coominya QLD 4311, Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday Closed, Website: http://www.tysonfoods.com.au/ Phone: (07) 5426 5757
Esk Thai Shop 2/95 Ipswich St, Esk QLD 4312, Hour: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Sunday 5pm to 8pm, Phone: (07 )5424 1388
Barb’s Kitchen-Fernvale 1506 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday to Friday 6am to 7pm, Saturday and Sunday 7am to 7pm, Website: http://www.barbskitchen.com.au/ Phone: (07) 5493 6829
Emily’s Takeaway 4 Walters St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hour: Monday to Sunday 7:30am to 9:30pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilystakeaway/, Phone: (07) 5426 2120
Thai Simply Cook 6 Walters St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Sunday 4pm tp 8:30pm, Find a table: https://www.thaisimplycooklowood.com.au, Place an order: https://www.thaisimplycooklowood.com.au, Menu: http://thaisimplycooklowood.com.au/ Website: https://www.thaisimplycooklowood.com.au/ Phone: (07) 5333 8662
Subway Fernvale Shopping Centre, shop 2a/1455 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am to 8pm Place an order: https://www.subway.com/en-au/catering Menu: http://www.subway.com/ Website: https://www.subway.com/en-au Phone: (07) 5426 7700
Enigmas cafe 137 Ipswich St, Esk QLD 4312, Hours: Monday to Thursday 6am to 2pm, Friday 6am to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 7am to 3pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnigmasCafe/ Phone: (07) 5424 1415
Country Fried Chicken 89 Main St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hours: Monday to Sunday 9:30am to 7:30pm, Phone: (07) 5426 2794
Bunkers Restaurant 1 Main St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hours: Monday to Wednesday Closed, Thursday Lunch 11:30am to 2pm Dinner 6pm to 8:30pm, Friday Lunch 11:30am to 2pm Dinner 5pm to 8:30pm, Saturday Lunch 9am to 2pm Dinner 6pm to 8:30pm, Sunday Lunch 11:30am to 2pm Dinner 6pm to 8:30pm, Phone: 0403 586 383
Olivias Pizza 73 Main St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday to Sunday 4pm to 8pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oliviaspizzalowood, Phone: (07) 5426 3371
Domino’s Pizza Fernvale Mpk Woolworths Carpark, 1455 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday to Sunday 4pm to 8pm, Website: https://www.dominos.com.au, Phone: (07) 3741 5444
PS Country Fried Chicken & Seafood Takeaway 4 Fairneyview Fernvale Rd, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm, Saturday 11am to 7pm, Sunday 11am to 6pm, Phone: (07) 5427 0458
Choice of India Shop 2 55/61 Main St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hours: Monday and Tuesday Closed, Wednesday to Saturday 4pm to 8:30pm, Sunday 4pm to 9pm, Phone: 0426 624 172
Brisbane Valley Tavern (Aust) 1456 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday to Sunday 10am to 12:30am, Website: https://www.brisbanevalleytav.com.au/
Nash Gallery & Café 212 Ipswich St, Esk QLD 4312, Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am to 4pm, Website: http://www.nashgalleryesk.com.au/, Phone: (07) 5424 2424
Bellevue Hotel Coominya 1 Main St, Coominya QLD 4311, Hours: Monday to Tuesday 10am to 7pm, Wednesday and Thursday 10am to 9pm, Friday 10am to 11pm, Saturday 11am to 10pm, Sunday 11am to 7pm, Phone: (07) 5426 4638
Moriya Sushi Fairneyview Fernvale Rd, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday to Friday 10:30am to 3:30pm, Saturday 10:30am to 2pm, Sunday Closed, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Moriya-Moriya
Pizza Hut Fernvale1456 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Sunday to Thursday 4:30pm to 9pm, Friday and Saturday 4:30pm to 10pm, Place an order: https://www.pizzahut.com.au, Menu: http://www.pizzahut.com.au/ Website: https://www.pizzahut.com.au, Phone: 13 11 66
Hav’A’Chat Cafe 70 Cressbrook St, Toogoolawah QLD 4313, Hours: Monday to Friday 7am to 2:30pm, Saturday and Sunday 7am to 1:30pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HavaChatCafe/, Phone: (07) 5423 2840
Smoky Mountain Hideaway 1/1814 Mount Glorious Rd, Mount Glorious QLD 4520, Hours: Monday to Friday Closed, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 3pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmokyMountainHideawayBne/menu/, Website: https://smoky-mountain-hideaway.business.site/, Phone: 0460 855 105
Tree Change Cafe 1464 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale QLD 4306, Hours: Monday is Closed, Tuesday to Friday 6:30am to 12:30pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30am to 12:30pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TreeChangeCafeFernvale/, Phone: (07) 5427 0007
Coffee At The Park 75 Main St, Lowood QLD 4311, Hours: Monday to Friday 6am to 2pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30am to 1pm, Phone: (07) 5426 2580
Cafe In The Mountains 1863 Mount Nebo Rd, Mount Nebo QLD 4520, Hours: Monday and Tuesday Closed, Wednesday to Friday 9:30am to 2:30pm, Saturday 8:30am to 3pm, Sunday8am to 3pm, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Caf%C3%A9-in-the-mountains/100063645249785/, Phone: (07 )3289 8110
Victory Cafe 96 Archer St, Woodford QLD 4514, Hours: Monday to Sunday 8:30am to 8pm, Phone: (07) 5496 1430
Sun Sun Chinese Cuisine 56 Mary St, Kilcoy QLD 4515, Hours: Monday to Sunday 4:30pm to 8:30pm, Phone: (07) 5422 0150
Accomodation:
Esk Mountain View Lodge 17 Francis Terrace, Esk QLD 4312, Website: https://eskmountainview.traveleto.com/, Phone: 0450 542 996 Check-in time: 2:00 pm Check-out time: 10:00 am
Bellevue Homestead 1 West Rd, Coominya QLD 4311, Website: https://www.bellevuehomestead.com.au/, Phone: (07) 5400 7977
ESK Wivenhoe Motor Inn 2 Highland St, Esk QLD 4312, Website: https://eskwivenhoemotorinn.com.au/, Phone: (07) 5424 1677,
Esk Motel 93 Ipswich St, Esk QLD 4312, Phone: (07) 5402 0237
Esk Grand Hotel 121 Ipswich St, Esk QLD 4312, Website: https://www.grandhotelesk.com/, Phone: (07) 5424 1141
Hotel Lowood 50 Railway St, Lowood QLD 431, Website: https://hotel-lowood.com.au/, Phone: (07) 5426 1310
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Motel 16 Hassall St, Esk QLD 4312, Website: https://www.eskcaravanpark.com.au/, Phone: (07) 5424 1466 Check-in time: 2:00 pm Check-out time: 10:00 am
Clarendon Cottage 93 Clarendon Station Rd, Clarendon QLD 4311, Website: https://www.clarendoncottage.com.au/
Twilight Grove Bed & Breakfast 39 Esk Forest Rd, Redbank Creek QLD 4312, Website: http://www.twilightgrove.com.au/, Phone: (07) 5424 1432 Check-in time: 2:00 pm Check-out time: 11:00 am
Maiala Park Lodge 37 Fahey Rd, Mount Glorious QLD 4520, Website: https://www.maialaparklodge.com.au/, Phone: (07) 3289 0155 Check-in time: 3:00 pm Check-out time: 10:00 am
Peddlars Rest 53 Cressbrook St, Toogoolawah QLD 4313, Website: https://peddlarsrest.traveleto.com/, Phone: 0438 697 819
Check-in time: 2:00 pm Check-out time: 10:00 am
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