Despite being less than 3 hours drive from Brisbane, it is fair to say that Stanthorpe remains one of south east Queensland’s best kept secrets. Ask any of the area’s regular visitors what they love about the region and you will probably receive a myriad of different responses.  It’s no wonder given that the region offers so much, including romantic getaways, award-winning wines, breathtaking scenery, stunning hiking and mountain biking trails, isolated watering holes, fresh products direct from the farmer, gourmet restaurants, visit wineries, try farm-to-table gourmet restaurants or to simply stock up on fresh produce direct from the farmer. With so much to see, do and taste it’s hard not to fall in love with the place. 

Read on to discover Stanthorpe’s must-visit weekend attractions.

Discover the Best Wines in Granite Belt

There’s so many wonderful wine producers in the area, with this small region well-known for its winemaking and tastings. We have chosen a few of the many wineries in this region, such as:

  • Ballandean Estate 

Ballandean Estate has something for everyone, whether you want to spend the afternoon or evening there or just stop by to taste some of their award winning wine. Choose the 45-minute session for a familiar wine-tasting experience, where you can select wines from the team’s extensive range of delicious wines. You can order a charcuterie board with local specialities and wine flights that are complemented with each item at the new Barrel Room Wine Lounge.

  • Balancing Heart Vineyard

Greg Kentish’s Balancing Heart vineyard is a must-see in Stanthorpe. There are free wine samples available, as well as Saturday wine tastings. To pair with the wine, the wood-fired pizza oven makes for the ideal location for a relaxing afternoon with friends.

  • Girraween Estate

Girraween Estate, run by Lisa and Steve Messiter, is a 10-year-old vineyard that has won many awards. Why not try their amazing sparkling wines, and you take in their sprawling vineyards, and rolling hills.

We recommend visiting Girraween Estate if you are in the neighbourhood. Sign up for Girraween’s wine club and receive award-winning wines delivered to your door.

  • Tobin Wines

Tobin Wines’ stunning driveway is reminiscent of Boccherini’s Minuetto. This is the place to be for wine lovers. Tobin Wines takes pride in its wine as well as its capacity to educate people about wine concepts. The wine-tasting hut is a comfortable location to spend the day, and after trying their wines you’ll most certainly leave with a few bottles.

Taste the Cheese Culture of Stanthorpe

Stanthorpe has its own cheese factory. For those who can find the cow on the Jersey Girls Cafe’s roof, Stanthorpe Cheese is offering $5 cheese-tasting plates. If you’re hungry, order a toastie with local bread, cheese, stuffing, and spreads.

Sip the Best Drinks from the Granite Belt Brewing 

Granite Belt Brewing has been Stanthorpe’s flagship brewery for more than a decade. A sampler paddle allows you to try over ten different local beers and ciders. The brewery’s restaurant is famous among both visitors and locals for its hearty and tasty cuisine.

Plan a Climbing or Hiking Trip 

Beyond eating, drinking, and sightseeing, you can also find time to be in nature in the Granite Belt. For the best climbing or hiking experience, we recommend these spots:

  • Bald Rock National Park

If you need a little peace and quiet and the chance to work off all the  wine, artisanal local cuisine, and cheeses, then a hike to Bald Rock is a must.   Bald Rock is a giant exposed granite rock, at Bald Rock National Park. From the summit, you can experience breathtaking views over the surrounding area, and is the ideal spot for the perfect Instagram shot. Camping is available with a reservation at this national park.

  • Girraween Park National

Girraween National Park hiking trails have more than ten routes, and massive boulders await you. It is possible to see wildflowers, bush creeks, balancing boulders, eucalypt trees, and underground water-sculpted waterways. The Pyramid is a must-see—the journey up the massive granite dome is definitely worth it.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a weekend off at your favourite hideaway. In Stanthorpe, you are sure to be greeted with numerous ways to unwind, relax, and get out of your dull weekday routine. Make your way here and see what else is in store for you!

If you’re looking for what to do in Stanthorpe, Granite Belt Retreat is your sanctuary for views, amazing accommodations, and weekend activities. Visit our website today!