From great food and drinks to beautiful national parks, the Granite Belt region is the ultimate destination for a short weekend getaway. It is a favourite among weekenders and holiday-makers looking to experience one of Australia’s best wine regions, or simply enjoy the Scenic Rim and Southern Downs, two of Queensland’s most famous destinations.
Here are our top recommendations for a three-day getaway in the Granite Belt.
Day 1: Hop Into the Ipswich-Aratula-Warwick Route
Start your three-day escapade in Ipswich, Queensland’s oldest provincial city. Soak up the history by having a walking tour in town, where you can explore colonial homes, sandstone buildings and old churches. Take all the time you need to explore every nook and cranny of the area.
Don’t forget to drop by antique and vintage shops. Who knows? You might bring home an item or two as a souvenir.
From Ipswich, head on to Aratula. If homemade scones served at a roadside cafe sound good to you, you’re in luck! Get your hands on one at Arthur Clive’s Bakery Cafe before checking out the lookout at Cunningham’s Gap and calling it a day. Rest and recharge, because you’ll need energy for tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 2: Head to Stanthorpe
The historic town of Stanthorpe is located in one of the most picturesque locations in the Granite Belt. The Stanthorpe region is home to some of the best culinary treats, including quaint bakeries, restaurants, cafes and more, so ready your tummies!
No trip to Stanthorpe is complete without visiting a winery, so be sure to check out at least one of the Granite Belt Wine Country’s 45 wineries.
One place worth visiting is Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cider and Shed Cafe. Here, they serve juice, cider, limoncello and brandy using fruits grown from their Thulimbah property.
Another notable stop is Summit Estate winery, also at Thulimbah. It boasts of a five-star rating, so if you’re pressed for time, visiting this one is a great choice.
If you’re not tired from cafe, restaurant and winery hopping yet, spend some time at Aloomba Lavender Farm, one of the most stunning properties you can see in the Granite Belt.
The farm is popular among tourists who want to enjoy the mesmerising view of the lavender field. Because of its lush country setting, it became a perfect spot for camping families who wish to take a break from their busy city lives. Showers, toilets and a few powered sites are available on the farm. Firepits and wood can also be supplied but remember to bring your own water when you visit the camp.
Day 3: Explore Girraween National Park
Get ready to spend the entire day at Girraween National Park, where a 30-km walking trail will be waiting for you. You don’t have to be a hiking pro since there are short, friendly walks for those who just want to marvel at the beauty of nature. There are also more challenging climbs for more experienced hikers.
You can choose to cut short your Girraween National Park tour to go to Ballandean Estate Wines, a winemaking authority in the area. The family behind the estate, the Puglisi family, has been making wines since the 1930s and operates an onsite restaurant for hungry tourists and adventurers.
If time permits, visit Golden Grove Estate winery, because you can never have too much wine when you’re in Granite Belt.
Conclusion
The Granite Belt is a great area that has so much to offer in such a small region. It’s the perfect destination for a short getaway or an extended vacation, depending on how long you intend to stay. The peaks, rivers, forests and parks as well as the wineries, restaurants and cafe make the area a favourite among locals and visitors.
If you are looking for the best Stanthorpe accommodation, check out Granite Belt Retreat. Our country estate takes pride in 20 cedar cabins with log fire, a restaurant, brewery and much more. Book now!
