Embraced for its soul-nourishing benefits, gardening is known to enhance physical wellbeing and uplift moods. Why not harmonize your passion for plants with a coffee outing? Explore Ipswich's finest nursery cafes and garden eateries for a delightful blend of nature and relaxation.Rafter & RoseStep into the charming world of Rafter & Rose, a beloved local café that exudes a unique ambiance. Guests enter through 19th-century French cast-iron gates and down a garden laneway to a delightful indoor space adorned with lush pot plants and an eclectic array of ornaments. Renowned for their delectable cakes and treats, all freshly made on-site, many options are gluten-free and/or dairy-free—yet bursting with flavour. Indulge in delights like white chocolate cheesecake, New York baked cheesecake, and more from their extensive menu offering breakfast, brunch, and lunch.Location: 17 Ellenborough Street, Ipswich

EWE Nique Hobby Farm at Haigslea just west of Ipswich Central has become a favourite for young families and school classes over the past six years since opening. Now the hobby farm has added a new bevvy of creatures to the offering – including static displays of the prehistoric kind.​Large scale dinosaur sculptures have been embedded into a wonderland of huge-leafed plants and shimmering palms. The enclosed arena is also home to flying colourful budgies and finches, and covered ponds of goldfish.EWE Nique’s owners Penny and Farmer Dave wanted to create a peaceful nature-filled experience for young children.

Taking in breathtaking views from a height is one of life’s simple pleasures. There's something rejuvenating about pausing to breathe deeply while soaking in the landscape around you. In Ipswich, you don’t always need to lace up your hiking boots to enjoy the scenery. Here are seven of the best scenic spots in Ipswich that promise stunning vistas with and without the strenuous trek!Floating Images Hot Air Balloon FlightsFor an unforgettable perspective of Ipswich, nothing beats a hot air balloon flight with Floating Images. The early morning awakening is well worth the effort, as you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the heritage city and its stunning surroundings while gently floating above it all.With over three decades of ballooning experience, owner and Chief Pilot Graeme Day has been delighting locals and visitors alike for the past 25 years. You can rest assured that you're in expert hands.

The Ipswich Region is home to many wonderful farm experiences ideal for couples and families.A great example is The Llama Farm, which is only a 45 minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD. Visitors can enjoy guided tours where you can meet a menagerie of cuddly animals such as goats, miniature ponies, camels, bunnies and of course llamas! The farm boasts the biggest llama herd in Queensland and visitors can feed the animals and also lead a llama on a walk around the property. Visitors must book in advance.

Expand your horizons with a visit to Ipswich mountain peaks featuring stunning views, natural wildlife and thrilling heights…Flinders PeakThe highest public accessible peak in Ipswich is Flinders Peak. It is located inside the Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate and reaches some 680m high into the sky. While Flinders isn’t the highest peak in the region (Mt Beau Brummell located on privately owned land at 700m high takes that title) it is the highest peak you can climb.  Expect a steep climb up passing over several crests, expect views to Brisbane, the Fassifern Valley and Lamington Plateau as you ascend. The final segment is the most rugged section, rock scrambling skills and rugged boots are essential.This hike is a class 5 rated trail for very experienced bushwalkers and should take about six hours to complete.

In Ipswich we have farms that open their gates for you to explore, either choose one to visit on a day trip or make a weekend out of it and stay at one for the night.Start with a morning session on Saturday at Ewe Nique Hobby Farm.  This authentic farm lets you pet and feed the animals including sheep, lambs, alpacas, goats, chicken and geese for 90 minutes.  You can also meet farmers Penny and Dave and find out more about the animals and what life is like on the farm.Your next stop is only 15 minutes away at Watercress Creek Olives and Limes in Pine Mountain.