Get ready for an adventure in Rubyvale, where the excitement of digging for gems is just the beginning!
Spend your day fossicking for sapphires, exploring historic mines, all while soaking up magnificent outback sunrises and the friendliest country vibes.
Here’s how to explore all that Rubyvale has to offer.
SUNRISE WITH A VIEW
For a memorable start to your day, catch the sunrise from Policeman’s Knob. This rocky lookout provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a good place for spotting local wildlife.
A heads-up on access: The road begins from Middle Ridge Fossicking Area at the end of Goanna Flats Road in Rubyvale – you’ll need a high clearance vehicle for the final stretch. From there, it’s an unmarked walking trail with plenty of rock scrambling.
It’s a true Gemmies-style adventure to kick off your day!
COFFEE & STRUDEL BREAK
Once you’ve earned your breakfast with the climb, head back into town and make a beeline for Muggachino’s. They’ve got freshly brewed coffee, plus their famous Austrian apple or cherry strudel – trust us, it’s a must-try! Good news for dietary needs, they also offer gluten-free options, along with tasty donuts and toasties.
Photo credit: Muggachino’s
MARKET TREASURES
From April to October, Rubyvale comes alive each Saturday with the Rubyvale Flats Markets. This is your chance to browse everything from handmade goods and local crafts to quirky second-hand treasures. You never know what you might find!
Photo credit: Ricks Man-world Maly
STEP INTO HISTORY
Looking to dig a little deeper into the Sapphire Gemfields’ history? Head to the Miners Common Museum, Arts and Cultural Centre at 1605 Rubyvale Road. You can visit Friday through Sunday, from 10 am to 2 pm, between April and September, and get insights into the region’s rich mining history. You’ll find it spread out over 20 hectares with lovely walking trails. And good news, it welcomes your furry friends too! The museum offers incredible value, and entry is just a gold coin donation.
Fossick for sapphires
Easy Start: Fossicking Parks
If you’re looking for an easy, fun way to get started, head to one of the local fossicking parks. It’s super simple: just grab a bag of “wash” (that’s the sapphire-bearing gravel), get a quick demo on how to sift, and start hunting for treasures. You’ll find these beginner-friendly spots at Bobby Dazzler Mine, Miners Heritage, and Rubyvale Miners Cottage.
Level Up: Tagalong Tours
Ready to level up your gem-hunting skills? Tagalong tours offer a hands-on adventure with a local expert by your side. They’ll take you to a designated fossicking area and teach you all the tricks of the trade – how to dig, sieve, and spot sapphires like a true pro! For bookings, be sure to check out Jebs Gems Tagalong Tours.
Go It Alone: Dedicated Fossicking Areas
Ready to try it solo? Head out to a dedicated fossicking area like Middle Ridge or Tomahawk Creek (just a heads-up, a 4WD is recommended for these spots). Before you go, make sure you’ve got your fossicking licence – you can grab it online or by phoning MyMines directly on (07) 3199 8133.
GO underground
Imagine stepping below the surface and exploring Rubyvale’s incredible underground world. It’s a highlight of any visit!
Bobby Dazzler Mine and Miners Heritage both offer guided walk-in mine tours that take you through hand-dug tunnels and reveal the fascinating history of sapphire mining. It’s a glimpse into a hidden world that once echoed with picks, candles, and the hope of striking it rich.
SHOP the sparkle
Rubyvale’s jewellery stores and gem galleries are full of local gems — literally! Whether you’re after a sparkling souvenir to remember your trip or you want to transform your own fossicking find into something special, you’ll find no shortage of skilled local experts ready to help.
Pick up a beautiful ready-to-wear piece, or even better, work with a local specialist to have your very own sapphire expertly cut and set into a custom keepsake. It’s the perfect way to carry a piece of the Sapphire Gemfields home with you.
Be sure to visit Rubyvale Gem Gallery, An Extra Facet, AuzGems, Bobby Dazzler Mine, Earth to Ocean Jewellery, Miners Heritage, Sapphire Gem Cuts, and Taylors Fine Sapphires.
Photo credit: Tourism Australia
quirky photo ops
Rubyvale has its fair share of fun and unexpected sights! Snap a pic with the Big Miner outside Bobby Dazzler Mine, add your flip-flops to the Thong Tree on Goanna Flats Road, or check out the sign at Boot and Kettle Creek.
classic country pub
After a big day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like kicking back at a classic Queensland pub, and the New Royal Hotel fits the bill perfectly. This legendary spot is built from local billy boulders and ironbark, and offers a welcoming atmosphere that’s pure Gemmies charm. It’s the ideal place for a cold drink and a good yarn as you wind down your day.
Photo credit: Tourism Australia
WHERE TO STAY
With so much to do, you’ll want to stay a little longer in Rubyvale. The town offers a great range of places to stay, including the New Royal Hotel, Rubyvale Caravan Park, Gemseekers Caravan Park, Rubyvale Motel and Holiday Units, and Rubyvale Gem Gallery. Whether you’re after a cosy cabin, a shady caravan site, or a comfortable motel room, you’ll find the perfect base to enjoy the full Sapphire Gemfields experience.
STAY IN THE LOOP
For the latest events and local news, take a look at the Gemfields Community Newsletter.