MITCHELL is an oasis which is considered the eastern gateway to Outback Queensland. It has many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, so make sure it’s on your list of places to stay.

Relax and let the world go by at the Great Artesian Spa complex, Mitchell’s major tourist attraction. Even if you’re feeling weary from your travels, the relaxing atmosphere and the benefit of soaking in mineralised artesian water should rejuvenate you straight away.

The Great Artesian Spa was opened in 1998 and is situated in the town’s aquatic centre. The shape of the spa is reminiscent of a billabong, and the landscaped surroundings feature native Australian flora.

There are two pools of artesian water, one which is naturally heated. The other is designed for those who prefer a cooler experience. Both spa pools have been designed with disabled access in mind and facilities include a chairlift to allow easy access for physically disabled people.

The Great Artesian Spa and Visitor Information Centre is open seven days a week from 8.00am to 6.00pm. The spa complex also includes the Healthy Byte Internet Cafe which offers healthy light meals served by friendly locals. The cafe also provides internet access for those wanting to surf the net or simply keep in touch with family and friends. The Healthy Byte is open to 5.00pm seven days.

The complex also features a gym which is run as a community service. People attend an induction class then receive free membership to the gym.

The water used in the spa pools is renewed regularly and comes from the Great Artesian Basin, one of the largest artesian basins in the world and underlying about one-fifth of Australia. It covers a total area of more than 1,711,000 square kilometres. Some artesian water is believed to be about two million years old.

The Mitchell bore brings water to the surface from more than 1km under the ground.

Some people are calling the Great Artesian Spa a fountain of youth. One thing is certain. An hour spent at the spa will be one of the most relaxing hours of your holiday.

The Major Mitchell Caravan Park is widely known throughout the Australian caravan and camping fratern­ity. The park is situated on the banks of the Maranoa River on the eastern entry to Mitchell.

The park has 16 en suites with electricity, additional powered sites, hot showers and toilet facilities as well as a greywater outlet for travelling caravans or motor homes. Barbecue facilities are also situated within the park and are available for use by guests as well as the community. A feature of the Major Mitchell Caravan Park is the ‘fire pit’, where many stories, experiences and recipes are exchanged between fellow campers.

The Hotel Mitchell offers accommodation in a wing that is separate from the hotel, so it has the benefits of being quiet and having easy access to the rooms, which include air-conditioned family and single rooms. The hotel is only a block from the spa and also offers lunch and dinner six nights a week.