Gregory River scene.

From the Matilda Highway, travelling north, if you turn left at the Burke and Wills Roadhouse, you'll be heading for some unexpected beauty spots.

Unexpected, because they're water features and in outback where you expect the dry and dusty rather than the green and lush. Heading towards Lawn Hill, which is a famous beauty spot in western Queensland, plan a stop at Gregory Downs. Here, the Gregory River adds beauty and tranquillity to the landscape.

Some people like to stop for lunch or an overnight stay at the pub. Others who enjoy camping say there's nothing better than setting up a campsite down near the river. And if you like paddling a canoe or just sitting quietly with a fishing line and watching the world go by, don't miss this lovely spot.

Don't drive past the Burke and Wills

Leave civilisation behind (but stay on the bitumen)