If you’re looking for a new ‘must see’ local area to explore, then be sure to add Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt to your list. Located just 2.5 hours south west of Brisbane in the renowned Darling Downs region, the area offers an impressive array of natural parks, sights and tourist attractions, wineries and tonnes of awesome local food producers. Whether you are looking for a fun family holiday destination or a romantic getaway, Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt are sure to have everything you need for that perfect holiday.
Here are some tourist attractions to visit while in Stanthorpe and Granite Belt.
1. Girraween National Park
Girraween is an Aboriginal word meaning “place of flowers” and aptly describes the Girraween National Park. The national park is known for its never-ending display of flowering flannel flora, wattles, bottlebrushes, paperbacks, and eucalyptus. Girraween is also home to animals thriving in eucalyptus forests, sedge lands, and heathlands.
The park is also famous for its beautiful granite landscape including the breathtaking Balancing Rock, one of the region’s most Instaworthy photograph locations. The area is also home to the Pyramid and Castle Rock, both are must see when visiting. The park contains a number of graded walking trails, with trails to suit every fitness level. Overall, the place is an excellent way to reconnect with nature and find inner peace.
2. Ashbern Farm
Ashbern Farm lets locals and tourists experience the beauty of living on a farm. Located off the New England Highway, the farm has been in business since 2008, open only during the berry picking season between October and May.
The farm offers activities such as strawberry picking or tasting yummy treats like their pride—homemade ice cream and coffee. Ashbern Farm is currently open Fridays through Sundays, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
3. Market in the Mountains
Market in the Mountains is a haven for local artists, enthusiasts, and people who simply enjoy creating products to sell. Based in the Stanthorpe Showgrounds, the venue is run by the Stanthorpe Crafters & Hobbyists Association INC., made for everyone who would like to explore the culture in the area through arts and crafts, produce, and food.
Tagged as Queensland’s coolest town, Market in the Mountains welcomes tourists and locals alike. The market is typically held on the 2nd Sunday of the Month from 8am to midday..
4. Granite Belt Brewery
The best way to experience a place is to try out their local drinks. Granite Belt Brewery is the premier Stanthorpe brewery, crafting refreshing and tasty craft beers and ciders since 2012. They take pride in serving guests with handcrafted and bottled drinks, guaranteeing customers the freshest beer every time.
The local brewery is open seven days a week for beer tasting and sales, with over ten beers and ciders to sample. Their tasting paddles are available in two sizes—85ml and 200ml. Meanwhile, non-alcohol drinkers can still enjoy as well as spirits and wines from the best local Granite Belt Wineries close by.
5. Granite Belt Bicycle Tours and Hire
Stanthorpe is a region situated in the middle of creeks and rivers, making it an ideal venue for a quick nature stroll. Granite Belt Bicycle Tours and Hire offers top-quality bicycles for rent, allowing people to bask in the glory of Stanthorpe and the beauty it provides.
First-time tourists don’t have to worry about getting lost in the area as they also offer guided tours to show people around the place. Discover Stanthorpe, its boutiques, wineries, and everything it has to offer. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience no one should miss.
Conclusion
With international and some interstate travel still on hold, now is the perfect time to explore what’s in your own backyard.
Granite Belt Retreat is a one-stop-shop destination for tourists and locals wanting to experience Stanthorpe and Granite Belt. Aside from world-class accommodations and facilities, our 30 acre estate is also home to a restaurant and a brewery — making this unique destination a ‘must see’ stop when visiting the region. Book a schedule now, and we’ll see you there.
