Emerald Car Hire

Guide of Emerald

Geography

Emerald, situated in the heart of Central Queensland, Australia, lies approximately 270 kilometres (170 miles) west of the Coral Sea coast and 270 kilometres (170 miles) from the city of Rockhampton. Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Central Highlands, Emerald's geography is characterised by rolling hills, fertile plains, and meandering rivers.

Emerald's environment is significant for its biodiversity and its role in maintaining the health of the Murray-Darling Basin. The region supports various plant and animal species, including threatened species such as the grey-headed goshawk and the squatter pigeon. The Nogoa River is an important habitat for fish, turtles, and waterbirds. Emerald's land management practices play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the Murray-Darling Basin, Australia's largest river system.

Climate in Emerald

Emerald experiences a subtropical climate with hot, dry summers and mild, dry winters. The average temperature during the summer months (December to February) is 26°C (79°F), while the average winter temperature (June to August) is 13°C (55°F). Rainfall is relatively low, averaging around 600 millimetres (24 inches) per year, and falls mainly during the summer months.

Culture

As you venture into Emerald, you'll step into the heart of Outback living. The town's history is entwined with the development of the Central Highlands and the discovery of precious gemstones. Explore the Emerald Historical Precinct, where historic buildings and artefacts narrate the tales of pioneers and the town's evolution. Dive into the region's gemstone legacy at the Gemfields, where sapphire fossicking and gemstone tours provide a hands-on experience of the area's geological treasures.

Things To Do in Emerald

Carnarvon Gorge: A short drive from Emerald, Carnarvon Gorge invites hikers to explore its towering sandstone cliffs, ancient Aboriginal art sites, and diverse flora and fauna.

Pioneer Cottage: Step back in time at the Pioneer Cottage, a heritage-listed building showcasing the life of early settlers with period furnishings and artifacts.

Fairbairn Dam: Embark on a scenic drive to Fairbairn Dam, a majestic man-made lake that serves as a popular recreational hub. Take a refreshing dip in the dam's crystal-clear waters, try your hand at fishing, or enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Emerald Botanic Gardens: Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Emerald Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of town. Stroll along the winding paths, admire the vibrant flower beds, and relax under the shade of towering trees. The gardens are also home to various birdlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Central Queensland Highlands Visitor Information Centre: Delve into the region's rich Aboriginal history and culture at the Central Queensland Highlands Visitor Information Centre. Explore interactive exhibits, learn about traditional Aboriginal storytelling, and understand the connection between the local people and the land.

The Big Easel: Marvel at the Sunflower Painting, a colossal mural depicting a vast field of sunflowers on the outskirts of Emerald. This impressive artwork pays homage to the region's agricultural heritage and serves as a reminder of the resilience of the local community.

Gemstone Fossicking: Try your luck at gemstone fossicking in the Gemfields, where guided tours and hands-on experiences reveal the region's rich geological wonders.

Eating Out in Emerald

Emerald's culinary scene caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, offering a memorable dining experience for visitors seeking hearty Australian fare, international flavours, or innovative modern Australian cuisine. With its emphasis on fresh, local produce and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Emerald's restaurants will tantalise your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Hearty Australian Cuisine: Indulge in the flavours of traditional Australian cuisine at Emerald's local pubs and cafes. Savour the iconic 'parmi,' a juicy chicken schnitzel topped with savoury tomato sauce and melted cheese, often accompanied by chips and salad. Sample hearty meat pies filled with succulent beef, lamb, or steak, or opt for a classic burger loaded with fresh toppings. These casual dining options offer a taste of Australian comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.

Modern Australian Cuisine: Experience the culinary artistry of modern Australian cuisine at Emerald's fine-dining establishments. Savour dishes that showcase fresh, local produce, innovative cooking techniques, and a fusion of flavours inspired by global cuisines. Sample delicately seared scallops with citrus beurre blanc, indulge in succulent lamb rump with roasted root vegetables or savour the delicate flavours of a pan-seared duck breast with plum compote. These restaurants offer a refined dining experience with impeccable service and an emphasis on quality ingredients.

Transport

Emerald's transportation system caters to various preferences and needs, ensuring easy and convenient travel for residents and visitors alike. Whether exploring the town's attractions, travelling to nearby destinations, or simply commuting around, Emerald offers a range of transportation options to suit every traveller.

Airport

The nearest airport to Emerald, Queensland, Australia, is Emerald Airport (EDL), located approximately 5 kilometres (3 miles) from the town centre. EDL provides convenient access for travellers, connecting the region to major cities in Australia. The following airlines operate in and out of EDL: QantasLink and Virgin Australia Regional Airlines. These airlines provide commercial services to Brisbane.

The airport is small but has a cafe serving hot and cold food and drinks.

Getting Around Emerald

Walking: Many of Emerald's key attractions, including the town centre and Botanic Gardens, are easily accessible on foot.

Local Buses: Emerald has a network of buses providing transportation within the town and to nearby attractions.

Day Trips and Tours: Several tour operators offer day trips and excursions from Emerald, allowing visitors to explore nearby attractions and experience the region's natural beauty. These tours often provide transportation, guided commentary, and visits to popular destinations.

Car Hire: For those seeking flexibility to explore the vast landscapes of the Outback, car hire services are available, allowing visitors to venture into the Gemfields and surrounding areas.

Range of Vehicles for Hire in Emerald

At EnjoyTravel.com, we understand that every traveller has unique needs and preferences when it comes to car hire. That's why we've curated a comprehensive selection of vehicles to cater to every type of adventure in Emerald, from solo city escapades to big family getaways.

• Compact Cars:

  Our compact cars are the perfect companions for those seeking urban agility and fuel efficiency. Choose from Fiat 500, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Polo models.

• Luxury Cars:

  For a more refined ride, our high-end rentals include models like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

• SUVs:

  Venture beyond the city limits and explore the Outback of Emerald in our selection of spacious and versatile SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Touareg.

• Vans:

  Perfect for group travel or family outings, options include the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Volkswagen Transporter.

• Convertibles:

  Enjoy the thrill of open-top driving with our selection of stylish convertibles with models like the Fiat 500C, MINI Cooper Convertible, and Volkswagen Beetle Convertible.

• Electric Vehicles:

  Go green and keep your carbon footprint low with models like the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, and Renault Zoe.

At Enjoy Travel, we understand that car hire is just one part of your travel experience. That's why we offer a comprehensive suite of additional services to make your journey seamless and stress-free.

• Peace of Mind with Comprehensive Insurance

  Drive with confidence knowing that you're fully protected with our comprehensive insurance coverage.

• Transparent Pricing with All Taxes Included

  We believe in transparency. With Enjoy Travel, the price you see is the price you pay. No hidden fees or surprises.

• 24/7 Roadside Assistance for Your Peace of Mind

  We provide 24/7 roadside assistance, ensuring you have prompt and reliable support whenever you need it.

• Hassle-Free Airport Pick-Up and Drop-Off

  Avoid hidden fees and enjoy a hassle-free airport pick-up or drop-off with our inclusive airport surcharge.

• Unlimited Mileage for Unforgettable Adventures

  With our unlimited mileage option, you can roam as far as you desire, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Working with the Best Car Hire Suppliers in Emerald

At EnjoyTravel.com, we're committed to making car hire a breeze, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to your Emerald adventure. We've partnered with the best car hire suppliers in Emerald, handpicked for their exceptional service, competitive rates, and extensive fleet of vehicles to cater to your every need.

Book your car hire today and uncover the adventurous spirit, natural beauty, and gemstone treasures that define Emerald, an iconic destination in the heart of Queensland.