If you are tired of heading to the same spots for your weekend getaways or family holidays, then why not consider a trip to Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt.  With stunning natural phenomena, breathtaking national parks offering hikes and bike tracks for all skill levels, waterways for fishing and swimming, plus a large number of wineries and local food producers, the region has something for everyone.  So if you are looking to unwind, why not experience the unique experiences that the Southern Downs and Granite Belt region has to offer. 

If you’re curious about what Stanthorpe town has to offer, here are the cool things you can do when you’re in the area:

1. Meditate on top of Australia’s Largest Granite Outcrop

Imagine meditating on top of a granite outcrop; taking in the breathtaking beauty of the natural surroundings?  It really is a memorable experience, and one that you can enjoy at the Girraween National Park. Here you can traverse the natural rock formations and spectacular boulders balancing precariously on mountaintops.  It’s no wonder it is one of the region’s most instagram worthy spots. Don’t forget to take your yoga mat with you when you go here so that you can get the full relaxation experience. 

If you’re looking for a challenge, be sure to tackle the 3.6km The Pyramid walk, which is a 2 hours return trip. This walk is definitely worth the effort, as you will discover the unbelievable ‘Balancing Rock’ teetering right next to you. Not a fan of long walks, you can go to the Granite Arch Walk that is just 1.6km away, and 30 mins return. 

2. Have a Unique Riding Experience on the New MTB Trail at Mount Marlay

Mt. Marlay is another beautiful spot to visit when in Stanthorpe. Here, you have the chance to experience real adventures on the numerous Mountain Bike Trails. The mix of granite rock and numerous different soil types gives these trails a unique riding experience for all riders or mountain biking enthusiasts. Whether you take your family with you or simply want to push your skills a little, you can ride on the new MTB trail at Mount Marlay of Stanthorpe. 

3. Get Lost in a Maze at Granite Belt Maze

If your bucket list includes getting lost in a maze, then the Stantorphe’s Granite Belt Maze is for you.  At the Granite Belt Maze, you have to solve your own riddle to navigate your way through the maze. What’s exciting about this is that those riddles will not help you find your way; instead, they make you search every part of the maze from start to finish and actually get you lost. It’s a one-of-kind challenge and experience that’s definitely worth trying when next in the region.

4. Be a Winemaker for a Day or Weekend

If you have this fantasy of becoming a vintner, then joining the Queensland College of Wine Tourism’s “Winemaker for a Weekend” program is for you. In this two-day program, you will get to experience the wine-making process hands-on, enjoy informative masterclasses and sensational food and wine tasting at Queensland’s premier wine region. It’ll be a dream come true since you’ll know and experience the wine-making process from start to finish. 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are so many wonderful and fun things you can do around Stantorphe and the Granite Belt. 

If you’re looking for accommodation in Stanthorpe QLD, go to Granite Belt Retreat & Brewery! We are just five minutes away from Stanthorpe, and our country estate features 20 cedar cabins complete with log fire, a 1000 litre microbrewery, plus a bar, restaurant and function centre. Book your accommodation with us today!