MT SURPRISE and the region around it hold a surprising number of attractions, including a wealth of history, gems, natural beauty and unusual landscape.

It makes sense to stay in Mount Surprise as you go day tripping to explore this amazing region. Taking out top honours in the unusual stakes is the Undara Lava Tubes phenomenon, situated southeast of Mount Surprise. Dating back from a volcanic eruption 190,000 years ago, it is the longest lava flow from a single volcano in the world and also provides a home for rare creatures and remnant rainforest flora.

For a hands-on attraction, try your luck at O’Brien’s Creek Gemfields.

Chillagoe, accessible as a day trip, offers marble mining, Aboriginal caves and scenic areas. It is advisable to have a fairly high clearance vehicle. Check conditions of the dirt roads before setting out. Another day away can be to Innot Hot Springs - have a spa there! Yet another adventure includes Einasleigh, Forsayth and Kidson.

In Mount Surprise itself, see relics of an old Cobb and Co coach station, military airstrips from the second world war and visit the railway station display. Wander through town and read the heritage signs. Also see the new Anzac Memorial - a pink granite rock - in the community park (you can have a barbecue there too).

People travelling with their own accommodation will appreciate the dump point in town (not far from the Medical Centre). Right in town on the western side is a wash-down bay which is available for all vehicles to use to stop the spread of weeds.