Best things to do in Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Region

A guide to must-visit wineries, scenic trails, and hidden gems in Queensland’s Granite Belt region.

The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Kambuwal people, Malintji and Kuunkari people, the Traditional Custodians of the Granite Belt Region.  We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country.  Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Located in Southern Queensland Country, near the New South Wales border, Stanthorpe, or, more broadly, the Granite Belt region, is among Australia’s best-kept secrets.

This diverse and picturesque area has plenty to do — from wine tasting at boutique wineries and sampling fresh local produce to exploring stunning national parks. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, you’ll find plenty of things to do in the Granite Belt.

To make planning your trip easier, I’ve compiled this guide covering the region’s top attractions, including must-visit wineries, scenic spots, and hidden gems. You’ll also find essential details like locations, opening hours, and ticket prices where applicable.

So, let’s get into it and discover the best places to visit on the Granite Belt!

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.

GRANITE BELT THINGS TO DO MAP

Before getting into all the amazing things to do on the Granite Belt, take a moment to check out the map below. It highlights the locations of all the must-visit attractions covered in this guide, making it easier to plan your trip.

To make the most of your time, start by listing your top priorities. Then, use the map to create a well-organised itinerary. This way, you can explore efficiently without unnecessary backtracking.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN STANTHORPE AND THE GRANITE BELT REGION

Below, you’ll find the top must-visit places and the best things to do on the Granite Belt

1 The Big Apple at Vincenzo’s Cafe

Did you know that Stanthorpe is the apple capital of Queensland, producing nearly the entire state’s apple crop? To celebrate this, the town features an unmissable landmark—the Big Apple—which greets visitors on their drive into Stanthorpe.

Snapping a photo with this giant fruity icon is a must-do Stanthorpe activity!

If you’re feeling peckish, head to Vincenzo’s Café, located next to the Big Apple. It is open daily for breakfast and lunch, sells fresh apples, operates a deli and gift shop, and even offers wine tastings.

While here, take a short stroll toward the historic railway station just behind the Big Apple. It’s a charming spot for photos, and with trains only passing through once a month, you won’t have to worry about unexpected delays!

Location: New England Hwy and Amiens Road, Stanthorpe

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8.30 am to 3 pm | Friday to Sunday, 8.30 am to 4 pm | although you can always grab a photo of the Big Apple!

Price: Free for photos

2 Eat apple pie at Suttons

If visiting the Big Apple has left you craving apple-flavored treats, then Suttons is the place to go for a slice of their famous apple pie.

Handmade on-site with apples freshly picked from their working orchard, Suttons’ apple pie is a true local favourite. Even the pastry is made from scratch, ensuring every bite is as fresh as possible.

Their pies are so popular that they process up to 800 kg of apples weekly!

Beyond their legendary pie, Suttons Juice Factory & Cidery Café offers a variety of apple-based delights, including fresh-pressed juice, cider, and homemade preserves. You can also stock up on these tasty treats at their store to enjoy later.

Before you leave, peek through the window and watch Dave Sutton in action as he expertly peels apples using their special machine—it’s a fun behind-the-scenes glimpse into this iconic local business!

Location: 10 Halloran Drive, Thulimbah

Hours: Daily from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm

3 Stanthorpe Cheese

If you’re a cheese enthusiast, a visit to Stanthorpe Cheese is a must during your trip. Renowned as Queensland’s highest and coldest dairy farm cheese shop, it crafts a variety of cheeses using milk from a single herd of purebred Jersey cows. ​

At the Cheese Shop, you can sample their selection before deciding which to take home. On any given day, expect to try around 12 cheeses, complemented by other local produce.​

The on-site Jersey Girls Cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can indulge in their famous Ploughman’s lunch, featuring cheese, bread or crackers, relishes, eggs, and cured meats.

The café also serves pies and sausage rolls and a variety of high-quality teas, coffees, locally produced apple juice, and fine wines from Granite Ridge Wines. ​

For those with a sweet tooth, the café offers fresh, homemade cheesecakes and cakes made in-store and creamy Jersey milkshakes. ​

Location: 4 Duncan Lane, Thulimbah

Hours: Daily from 9.30 am to 4 pm

Price: Depends on how much you like cheese

4 Granite Belt wineries

The Granite Belt is one of Queensland’s premier wine regions, renowned for its cool climate, rich soils, and diverse range of high-quality wines. Nestled in the high-altitude landscapes around Stanthorpe, this region has a collection of boutique wineries, each offering unique varietals, award-winning drops, and warm country hospitality. 

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed cellar door experience, a scenic vineyard picnic, or an in-depth tasting with passionate winemakers, this list of Granite Belt wineries highlights some of the best places to sip, swirl, and savour.

There are 50+ wineries on the Granite Belt, so I haven’t visited them all, but below are a few whose wines I can especially recommend.

Click here for a more detailed overview of these Granite Belt Wineries.

Balancing Heart Vineyard

Balancing Heart Vineyard derives its name from a unique granite rock formation resembling a balancing heart amidst its premium Shiraz vines.

The vineyard’s portfolio includes reds such as Campfire Red, The Rock Shiraz, and Reserve Sagrantino and whites like Campfire White, Verdelho, and Viognier.

The picturesque setting, overlooking a serene lake, provides an ideal backdrop for a relaxing meal. Lunch is available daily, and dinner is available on weekends.

Ballandean Estate Wines

Ballandean Estate Wines is Queensland’s oldest family-owned and operated winery. The winery offers a diverse selection of wines, from classic varietals like Shiraz and Chardonnay to unique Strange Bird alternative varieties. Visitors can indulge in grazing platters daily.

Summit Estate Wines

Summit Estate Wines focuses on Mediterranean and European wines and the Strange Bird experience, which is also found in many Stanthorpe wineries. If you’re in town in Winter on a Friday or Saturday night, head down for their sunset session.

Ridgemill Estate

Just outside Stanthorpe, this award-winning estate takes full advantage of the region’s cool climate, producing a diverse selection of wines, from classic varietals to innovative Strangebird wines.

Ridgemill Estate also offers boutique accommodation and unique experiences such as the Pink Crush Plunge, a must-do for anyone wanting to get hands-on with winemaking.

Dear Vincent Winery

Dear Vincent Wines offers a diverse selection of small-batch, artisan wines crafted from estate-grown fruit, including Pinot Gris, Viognier, Shiraz Viognier, and a Field Blend Pet Nat. 

Visitors can indulge in unique experiences such as private wine tastings aboard a vintage Landcruiser ute amidst the vines or lunch from an upscale food truck Thursday through Sunday.

Symphony Hill Wines

Symphony Hill Wines is renowned for producing award-winning wines and has a diverse portfolio of wines, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Nero d’Avola, Gewürztraminer, Verdelho, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Rokkwell

Rokkwell is a boutique winery and accommodation provider in Ballandean. The winery specialises in small-batch, handcrafted wines from estate-grown grapes, including Chardonnay, Nebbiolo, and Sauvignon Blanc, and newer plantings of Nero d’Avola and Arneis. 

Serrena Que Estate

Serrena Que Estate Winery is a boutique winery with vineyards over 1,000 meters above sea level. The winery specialises in emerging and alternative grape varietals, including Cortese, Garganega, Mencia, Maturana Tinta, Fiano, Barbera, Saperavi, and Tempranillo. 

5 Granite Belt Brewery

​Granite Belt Brewery has been crafting refreshing craft beers and ciders since 2012. All are hand-crafted and bottled on-site in their 1000-litre microbrewery.

Their core range includes Pale Ale, Lager, IPA, Session Ale, Applethorpe Cider, and Irish Red Ale, complemented by seasonal brews like chocolate porters, spiced pumpkin ales, and wheat beers. For those who prefer other beverages, the brewery also offers a selection of wines from local Granite Belt wineries. ​

Lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and dinner is from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Bar snacks are available from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, light lunch/snack options are available between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The brewery offers private cedar timber cabins for accommodation, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the beautiful Australian bushland setting. ​

You can read my full review of the retreat here.

Location: 146 Glenlyon Drive, Stanthorpe

Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 10 am to 5 pm | Friday to Monday, 10 am to 9 pm

Price: Tasting paddles start at $15

6 Nicoletti Orchards

With its crisp mountain air and rich soils, the region provides the perfect conditions for growing premium apples and vibrant sunflowers, making family owned and operated Nicoletti Orchards a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and families looking for an authentic farm experience.

One of the most popular activities at Nicoletti Orchards is apple picking, which typically runs from late summer into autumn. Visitors can stroll through the neatly lined rows of apple trees, filling their baskets with crisp, juicy fruit straight from the branches. 

The orchard grows a variety of apples, including popular types like Pink Lady and Granny Smith, ensuring plenty of choices for those who love fresh, locally grown produce. There’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly picked apple while standing in the very orchard where it was grown.

During the warmer months, the orchard transforms into a sea of golden blooms as the sunflowers come into season. Sunflower picking at Nicoletti Orchards is a breathtaking experience, with towering flowers swaying in the breeze, creating an incredible photo backdrop. 

Visitors can relax in the picnic area and soak in the scenery. A coffee van serves homemade apple pie, and the orchard is dog-friendly. 

Location: 61 Nicoletti Lane, Pozieres

Hours: Designated weekends until May – check their Facebook for updates.

Price: $20 per adult | $11 per child

7 The Downs Explorer

The Downs Explorer Heritage Train is a remarkable piece of Queensland’s railway history, offering passengers a chance to experience vintage train travel through the picturesque landscapes of the Southern Downs. 

Operated by passionate volunteers, this heritage railway runs steam and diesel locomotives along historic tracks, providing a nostalgic journey through Queensland’s most scenic countryside. The train primarily runs between Warwick, Stanthorpe, and Wallangarra, with special trips to various regional locations, including the charming town of Ballandean.

While visiting the Granite Belt, you can take the train between Ballandean and Stanthorpe. This route takes passengers past rolling vineyards, boutique wineries, and stunning rock formations. As the train chugs along the old railway tracks, travellers are treated to breathtaking views of lush farmland, dense forests, and the striking granite outcrops that define the region. 

Ballandean, known for its award-winning wineries and the iconic Pyramid Rock, is a picturesque starting point for the ride. The station reflects the area’s rich railway history, and stepping onto the vintage train feels like a journey back in time. 

Upon arrival in Stanthorpe, visitors can explore the town’s vibrant food and wine scene, with plenty of opportunities to sample local produce, artisan cheeses, and handcrafted beverages.

If you have more time, you can continue to Warwick.

Hours: The train runs at various times – check their website for more information.

Price: $20 per adult | $11 per child

8 The Ginyard

The Ginyard is a boutique distillery in Eukey that specialises in premium gins and vodkas, all crafted on-site from locally grown and seasonal ingredients. 

Guests can enjoy a variety of handcrafted spirits, each reflecting the distinct flavours of the region. The light-filled cellar door, overlooking the vineyard and a family of curious alpacas, provides an inviting setting for tastings. 

The distillery welcomes visitors for spirit tastings, relaxed lunches and afternoon cocktails while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Visitors can indulge in wood-fired pizzas, available during Saturday openings, which provide a delightful pairing with its gin and vodka selections. 

For those seeking an extended stay, The Ginyard Cottage offers comfortable accommodation in a fully equipped cottage. The kitchen features a convection microwave oven, induction cooktop, and BBQ facilities. A slow-combustion fireplace enhances the rustic charm of the cottage during the winter months. ​

Location: 1747 Eukey Road, Eukey

Hours: Saturdays, 11 am–5 pm

9 Washpool Soap

A visit to Washpool Soap is one for the senses.  This soaperie sells soaps and beauty products developed and handmade at the store by soap maker and Founder Melissa Thomas and her family. 

Everything is made using the purest ingredients, including butter and milk, cold-pressed oils, extracts, infusions, botanicals and essential oils. 

The smell of all these ingredients hits you before you even walk through the door. This is the perfect place to stock up on gifts or something special for yourself!

They even offer soap-making workshops, so check out if any classes are on and book before you come to Stanthorpe.

Location: 4/7 Reeves Road, Stanthorpe

Hours: 9 am-4 pm Weekdays (except closed Wednesday) and Saturday | 9.00 am-1.00 pm Sunday

Price: Soap prices start from around $7 

10 Quart Pot Creek

When it comes to scenic outdoor spots in Stanthorpe, few places rival the beauty of Quart Pot Creek. This picturesque waterway winds through town before joining Spring Creek and eventually forming the Severn River.

With around 5 km of landscaped trails, Quart Pot Creek is perfect for a leisurely walk, a morning run, or a relaxing picnic on a sunny day.

If you’re visiting with little ones, bring along some bread—they’ll love feeding the friendly ducks that call the creek home!

Location: 28 Leslie Parade, Stanthorpe

Hours: Always

Price: Free

11 Big Thermometer

Stanthorpe holds the title of Queensland’s coldest town—though, given the state’s sunny reputation, the competition isn’t exactly fierce! In recognition of this chilly claim to fame (or perhaps just because Australians love giant landmarks), the town is home to one of its more unique attractions—the Big Thermometer.

Snap a photo with this quirky monument, then take a scenic stroll along Quart Pot Creek, a picturesque spot perfect for a leisurely walk. The local visitor information centre is also located here, making it a great first stop to pick up brochures, maps, and insider tips for exploring Stanthorpe.

Location: 28 Leslie Parade, Stanthorpe

Hours: 24 hours / 7 days a week

Price: Free 

12 Red Bridge

The Red Bridge may no longer be red, but this historic railway bridge remains one of Stanthorpe’s most charming landmarks. Officially named the Quart Pot Creek Rail Bridge, it was built entirely by hand in 1886 as part of the Brisbane to Sydney interstate rail link—a true testament to the craftsmanship of its time.

This scenic spot is perfect for a walk along Quart Pot Creek, offering a peaceful setting and a glimpse into Stanthorpe’s railway history. Plus, you can easily combine it with other nearby attractions—the Big Thermometer is just a few kilometres away, making for a lovely stroll that connects some of the town’s must-see sights.

Location: Heritage Park Stanthorpe – park at the end of Pioneers Parade and follow the pathway to the bridge.

Hours: Always

Price: Free

13 Granite Highland Maxi Tours

​Granite Highlands Maxi-Tours specialises in immersive wine tours throughout the Granite Belt region. Focusing on showcasing the area’s rich viticultural heritage, they offer guests the opportunity to sample award-winning wines and gain insights into the local wine industry. 

Their offerings include full-day and half-day tours, with the full-day option running from 10 am to 5 pm. This comprehensive experience includes visits to six to eight wineries, a delicious lunch, and convenient pickup from your Stanthorpe accommodation or even from Brisbane. ​

Their modern, air-conditioned tour buses provide comfort throughout the journey, allowing guests to relax and fully appreciate the scenic beauty of the Granite Belt.

Tour prices and times vary, so check their website for more details.

14 Donnellys Castle

Although not an actual castle in the towers and fortress walls sense, Donnellys Castle is a granite rock formation that you can explore by walking between and over the large boulders. There are a range of cave-like entrances with narrow crevices, plus a great lookout on top of one of the granite outcrops.

Donnellys Castle was once a hideout for the notorious bushranger “Thunderbolt” (alias Fred Ward), who roamed the New England Tablelands. Now, it’s better suited to picnics, with tables and bathrooms on site. 

Location: Donnellys Castle Road, Pozieres

Hours: Always – best during daylight

Price: Free

15 Ballandean Pub

Ballandean Pub offers a quintessential country dining experience combining local flavours and warm hospitality. Recently relaunched after extensive renovations, the pub now features a spacious beer garden, a children’s playground, and an old Bedford truck repurposed as a stage for live music.

The pub’s menu showcases a commitment to sourcing local produce. Patrons can indulge in pub classics such as perfectly cooked steaks, chicken schnitzels, and burgers, all praised for their quality and generous portions.

Complementing the culinary offerings, Ballandean Pub has introduced a local gin menu featuring selections from regional distilleries such as Conrad Distillery, The Ginyard, and New Tricks with Bent Road Winery. 

The pub’s ambience is further enriched by its child and pet-friendly policies, making it an inclusive destination for families and travellers alike. 

The pub also offers four comfortable motel rooms.

Location: 1 St Judes Lane Cnr, Eukey Rd, Ballandean

Hours: Daily from 11.30 am to late

Price: Varies

16 Mt Marlay Lookout

Mount Marlay boasts the best panoramic views of Stanthorpe and is not even very far from the town centre. 

You can climb the paved stairway to the top and walk around the circuit path at the summit, looking out over the Granite Belt. For an even better view, try using the free mounted binoculars there.

It’s only 25 minutes from the car park to the summit, and you can even picnic at the top. 

Location: Lock Street, Stanthorpe

Hours: Always, but best during daylight

Price: Free 

17 Mt Marlay Mountain Bike Trails

In addition to the lookout, Mt Marlay features eight mountain bike trails with a mix of difficulties and unique granite terrain. The trails are also good for runners and hikers—just beware of the bikers flying downhill!

The total trail distance is 7km, with easy options like the Green Granite and Rusty trails and one double black diamond-rated trail, Gnarly Marlay. 

You can contact the Stanthorpe Mountain Biking Club on Facebook for trail or bike hire tips.

Location: Access the trails from the top of Lock Street

Hours: Always but safest during daylight

Price: Free

18 Granite Belt Christmas Farm

Even if you’re not visiting at Christmas time, the Granite Belt Christmas Farm is a must. Here, you can see rows and rows of real-life Christmas trees being grown—there are around 15,000 trees on the property.  

Fun fact: It takes 7 years to grow the perfect size Christmas tree, which requires pruning four times a year.  

From December 1 each year, families can come and select their own Christmas trees and participate in special Christmas events. Throughout the year, there are events such as Christmas in July and Easter egg hunts.

In addition to the real Christmas trees, visitors can do various things, including feeding Santa’s farm animals, shopping for Christmas decorations, or enjoying a gourmet picnic amongst the pine trees. 

Picnic baskets are available for purchase (pre-order required) and include treats like bruschetta, shaved ham, crumbed chicken, mixed leaf salad, white crusty loaf, cheese, relish, aioli, and Rocky Road.  

Location: 321 Aerodrome Rd, Applethorpe

Hours: March to June – Wednesday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday, 9 AM to 3 PM | July to December – Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4:30 PM, and Sunday, 9 AM to 3:30 PM

Price: Entry is free

19 Truffle Discovery Centre

The Granite Belt doesn’t just produce apples; the region also has extravagant exports, including the most expensive edible fungus in the world—Truffles!

At the Truffle Discovery Centre, as well as getting to smell and taste a range of truffle products, you can learn all there is to know about truffles through informative talks and interactive exhibits.

The centre offers a “360 VIP Tour, Taste, and Truffle Hunt,” providing an immersive experience that includes:

• A tour and talk at the display truffière with CEO Matt Hibberd.​
• Training and testing demonstrations with detection dogs.​
• A masterclass on cleaning, grading, slicing, and using fresh truffles.​
• Product tastings of truffle and non-truffle ranges.​
• Canapés showcasing their product range, accompanied by a beverage.​
• A self-drive visit to a local farm to participate in a truffle hunt with detection dogs.​

Tours take 2 to 3 hours, costing $109 per adult and $49 per child.

Even if you don’t like fungi, the Truffle Discovery Centre also offers a range of local produce, including honey, mustard, balsamic, aioli and more.

Location: 335 Church Road, The Summit

Hours: Wednesdays and Weekends from 10 am to 3.30 pm

Price: Entry is free

20 Jamworks Gourmet Foods

Jamworks Gourmet Foods has been making jam locally in Queensland for over twenty years. They now make around 87 products, from classic raspberry to decadently boozy peach and chardonnay, using local produce around the Granite Belt.

If you’re hungry, you can grab lunch at their on-site cafe, which serves breakfast and lunch, including their trademark scones! The café is fully licensed and offers a selection of local wines and beers to complement its menu.

It’s dog-friendly, too!

Location: 7 Townsend Road, Glen Aplin

Hours: Wednesday and Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm | Daily during school holidays

Price: Depends on what you buy! 

21 Go fishing at Storm King Dam

Situated about 10 km southeast of Stanthorpe, Storm King Dam offers a variety of recreational activities, including picnicking, water sports, birdwatching, and fishing. Anglers can expect to find species such as golden perch, Murray cod, silver perch, jew, and river blackish.

It’s important to note that anglers over 18 require a fishing permit, which is available from any Australia Post outlet. ​

There are plenty of facilities nearby, including toilets, picnic tables, and barbecues, as well as a swimming area and playground for the kids. 

While camping is not permitted directly at the dam, a private tourist park offers camping and caravan sites, as well as a recreational/youth camp available for large group bookings. ​

Boating is permitted on the lake without restrictions; however, a permit is required for powerboats, available at no cost.

Location: Eukey Road, Stanthorpe

Hours: Always open, but visiting in daylight is best

Price: Free

22 Stanthorpe Heritage Museum

The Stanthorpe Museum features 14 buildings, including over 20,000 historical artifacts and two collections of national significance.  

At the museum, you can step back over 100 years into a School Residence from 1894, complete with old desks, slates, and inkwells, or Ardmore House, a summer holiday home from the 1920s filled with period collections.

The museum focuses on pastoral life, tin mining, Aboriginal, Red Cross, medical, and social life in colonial Australia. If any of those topics interest you, add this spot to your list of places to visit near Stanthorpe.

Location: 12 High Street, Stanthorpe

Hours: Wednesday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm | Saturdays, 1 pm to 4 pm | Sunday, 9 am to 1 pm

Price: $10 per adult | $3.50 per child (5 – 14) | Family Pass $20

23 Castle Glen Winery and Distillery

While it might resemble an old medieval castle, Castle Glen was built in 1994. The castle is, in fact, a winery and distillery and not the home of any form of royalty or nobility. It’s also largely solar-powered—an advantage over many genuinely old castles.

For anyone who enjoys liqueurs, spirits, beers, ciders, and wines, a stop by Castle Glen will be a memorable part of your Stanthorpe trip. Owner Cedric Millar makes all his own beverages, which are 100% Natural, Chemical-Free, and Preservative-Free.  

He also makes vegan and fat-free Crème Liqueurs, which are a world first.

Location: 3184 Amiens Road, Thulimbah

Hours: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm

Price: Free 

24 Explore Stanthorpe’s Street Art

For creative travellers, discovering local street art is always fun and can lead to great travel snaps. Fortunately, Stanthorpe really delivers in this regard, with plenty of cool murals scattered around town. Here are some you might want to check out:

Weeroona Park, Old Ambulance Building (Marsh Street): “Whatever the Weather, We Stand Together” is a beautiful tribute to the emergency services that worked hard to save properties during the February and September 2019 bushfires.

Weeroona Park, YMCA / Gallery Alleyway (Marsh Street): Between the art gallery and the swimming pool are a few fun interactive murals that the kids will enjoy getting their photo taken.

Brass Monkey Statue:  Locals refer to winter in Stanthorpe as Brass Monkey Season, which this little sculpture refers to.  This statue is on the corner of Maryland and Railway Streets outside the newsagent.

South Wall of the Country Club Hotel (Laneway off Maryland Street): Here, you’ll find some fun murals painted during the 2016 Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival.

Farley Piazza (Maryland Street): In the piazza, you may think you’ve just stepped into a piazza in Italy with the great mural here celebrating the local Italian community.

Backpackers Mural: Just outside Australia Post on Maryland Street, you’ll find this artwork, which depicts the backpackers who come to town to help pick the crops.

Public Toilets Around Town: Funnily enough, public toilets around town are a popular place to find bright and colourful murals. Check out the toilets behind Farley Street Piazza, Brock Park, the Lions Club on Wallangarra Road, and Storm King Dam.  

Location: See above

Hours: Always – but best seen in daylights

Cost:  Free

25 Aloomba Lavender Farm

The Aloomba Lavender Farm covers 6 acres of rolling purple fields (in season, that is) with around 120,000 plants. The property is part of a much larger 4000-acre cattle farm just east of Stanthorpe. It’s beautiful enough that many couples choose to get married here.

The best time to visit is during the blooming season, which is from November to early December, offering a vibrant display of lavender field.s

At the farm, you can enjoy the views and peruse the gift shop, which is stocked full of lavender products, from dried bunches to skincare. They also have a very cute bed and breakfast onsite and camping facilities.

Location: 5425 Mt Lindesay Road, Liston via Stanthorpe

Hours: 10 am to 4 pm, Thursday to Monday

Price: Free to view the farm

26 Ballandean Pyramid

The Ballandean Pyramid is just outside Stanthorpe and stands 17.5 metres high and 30 metres square at the base. The structure was built from blocks of local granite, a full 7500 tonnes of rock, and took 8 months to complete.

The pyramid is on private property, so you can’t get very close, but you can take a photograph from a distance.  

To reach the pyramid, turn off the highway (eastward towards the Ballandean Tavern) on Eukey Road, then immediately right onto Jacobsens Road.  Follow Jacobsens Road for 1.7km until you reach the giant pyramid on the right. 

Location: Jacobsens Road, Ballandean

Hours: Always

Price: Free to look

27 Market on the Mountains Artisan Market

If you happen to be in town on the second Sunday of the month, head down to the Market on the Mountains.  Wandering the various stalls searching for unique treasures is one of the best ways to spend a lazy Sunday morning. 

Some items for sale at the markets include handicrafts, organic products, plants, jewellery and loads more. 

Everything is 100% local, so it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Location: Stanthorpe Showgrounds, 8 High Street Stanthorpe

Hours: Generally, the second Sunday of the month, from 8 am to 12 pm – check here to confirm dates.

Price: Entry is free

28 Balancing Rock at Girraween National Park

If you need some exercise after indulging in the amazing local produce and wine, a hike up to Balancing Rock in Girraween National Park is a great option.

This walk is 3.6 km return and typically takes 90 minutes to 2 hours to complete. In addition to Balancing Rock, it includes the Granite Arch, another cool rock formation in the area. 

Just make sure you have shoes with good grip for this walk, and prepare to scramble on all fours for parts of the climb to the top. The views are well worth the effort.

The start of the above walks is about a 30-minute drive from Stanthorpe. The National Park has a range of walking trails through picturesque landscapes of massive granite outcrops protruding from the ground, flowing streams, deep plunge pools, gorgeous waterfalls, and wildlife and fauna.

Location: Walks start from the car park at Bald Rock Creek Camping Area, Pyramids Road Ballandeen 

Hours: Always – best done in daylight.

Price: Free

29 Apple and Grape Harvest Festival

Possibly Australia’s most popular harvest festival, the Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, celebrates the produce of the Granite Belt Region.

The event lasts 10 days and attracts tens of thousands of visitors. The festivities include art exhibitions, food fiestas, poetry competitions, and town parades, culminating in the grape crushing.

Location: Events are held in various locations all over Stanthorpe

Opening Hours: The festival runs every second year around late February or early March and is the next one in 2026 – dates to be confirmed.

Cost:  Entry is free, although some festival events are ticketed

30 Stanthorpe Berry Festival

Stanthorpe is a real foodie place, so it shouldn’t be surprising that it has not one but two major food festivals. The Berry Festival is held annually in November when Stanthorpe goes strawberry crazy.

There are taste tests, eating competitions and cooking demonstrations, often with celebrity chef showings. It’s a perfect day out for berry fans of all ages and one of the great things to do in Stanthorpe in Summer.

Location: Weeroona Park, Marsh Street, Stanthorpe

Hours: 16 November 2024

Cost:  Ticket prices vary by event

31 Granite Belt Maze

A fun Stanthorpe activity for kids is the Granite Belt Maze and Mini Golf. Admission here allows you to play in the three timber mazes, the 9-hole mini golf course, and giant chess.

The mazes are each of varying degrees of difficulty. There is a large main maze for all ages and two smaller mazes for kids to enjoy independently.  

If you’re up for a double challenge, as you go through the mazes, you can look for clues to complete a few riddles the staff give you as you arrive. 

Location: 364 Old Warwick Rd, Glen Niven

Hours: Thursday to Monday, 10 am to 5 pm; open daily during school holidays; closed during February. It is best to double-check opening hours via their website.

Price: $21 per adult | $15 per child (5-16) | Family Pass $68 (2A+2C)

32 Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery

Seeing local art is a great way to learn about a place’s culture and heritage, and the Regional Art Gallery is the place to do that. The collections feature works from local Stanthorpe artists and other Australian artists in formats ranging from textiles to photography. 

Location: Weeroona Park – Lock Street, Stanthorpe

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10 am to 4 pm | Weekends 10 am to 1 pm

Price: Free entry

33 Enjoy handmade pastry from ZEST Pastries

Stephen Lambert started Zest Pastries in 2013 and has made every pastry since then. 

Zest’s offerings include homemade bread, pies, sourdough, tarts, croissants, and Danishes. If you want something more substantial than the delicious pastries, they serve breakfast and lunch most days.

For any budding pastry chef, Stephen also offers workshops for pretty much anything you want to make.  The workshops are BYO so you can enjoy local wine as you learn.

Location: 54 Maryland St, Stanthorpe

Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 7 am to 5 pm | Saturdays, 7 am to 2 pm.

Price: Most items start at around $9

34 Learn to be a Winemaker for a weekend

Speaking of local wine, if you’ve ever wanted to try making some, Stanthorpe is the place. Queensland College of Wine Tourism’s ‘Winemaker for a Weekend’ program lets you spend two days learning how to pick, crush, and press grapes and the art of fermentation.

Plenty of delicious local food and wine are served over the weekend, although you must come back some months later to try your own wine once the bottling process is complete.

Location: 22 Caves Road, Stanthorpe

Hours: The course is from 8 am to 3 pm and is usually held a few times a year

Price: $425 per person

35 Heavenly Chocolate

There aren’t many things to do in Stanthorpe with kids tastier than a trip to the Heavenly Chocolate Shop at Wisteria Cottage.  If you’re visiting in winter, it’s the perfect place to get warmed up with a very rich cup of European-style hot chocolate – they have over 20 different flavours to choose from!

After a morning of bushwalking in Girraween National Park or along Quart Pot Creek, you’ll have worked up an appetite for the yummy treats, which you can enjoy outside at one of the tables by the chook pens.

Location: 2117 Pyramids Road, Wyberba

Hours: Friday to Monday from 10 am to 4 pm

Price: Depends on how much you buy!

36 See snow in winter!

If you thought it doesn’t snow in Queensland, you’d be wrong! If you want to see a winter wonderland down under, Stanthorpe is the place to visit, as it’s officially Queensland’s coldest town.

While it doesn’t snow every year, if it does, it’s usually fairly light and only a day here and there. Although Stanthorpe is known to be snow blanketed, it’s rare. When it does snow, you’ll see an influx of tourists in town, as seeing snow in Queensland is extremely rare! 

If it doesn’t snow – there’s always the Snowflakes in Stanthorpe festival, held annually on the last weekend in June. The festivities include ice skating, snow fights and wintery food stalls.

Location: Anywhere in town

Hours: The coldest days are usually in late June/July

Price: Free

37 Ashbern Strawberry Farm

From October to May, you can pick strawberries straight from the patch at Ashbern Strawberry Farm, a commercial organic strawberry farm in Stanthorpe. Visitors can grab a tray and take it out into the patch and pay by the weight of the strawberries they pick. 

Ashbern Strawberry Farm also includes a charming farm shop offering various strawberry-themed products from freshly made strawberry ice cream to jams, sauces, and even strawberry wine.

Location: 2 West Road Stanthorpe

Hours: October to May, 8 am to 3 pm, Friday to Sunday

Price: Pay for your strawberries by the weight

BEST HOTELS IN STANTHORPE

Looking for a place to stay in the Granite Belt Region? We recommend booking through Booking.com. They offer a wide range of hotels, most with free cancellation, which is ideal for last-minute changes.

However, if you want our recommendation for a property, below we’ve listed our top pick for a luxury hotel, family hotel, mid range and budget hotel.

Best Luxury Hotel: Barrel View Luxury Cabins

Barrel View Luxury Cabins offer guests a sophisticated, intimate escape overlooking picturesque vineyards. Ideal for couples, these contemporary, adult-only cabins blend luxury with comfort, perfect for romantic retreats or relaxing weekends in wine country.

Accommodation includes three exclusive barrel-shaped cabins, each featuring a luxurious king-size bed, private en-suite bathroom, kitchenette with fridge, grill microwave, kettle, toaster, Nescafé Dolce Gusto coffee machine, and air conditioning.

Each cabin has a private deck with panoramic Granite Belt views, which are ideal for enjoying local wines.

The highlight is the stunning Saperavi Barrel, offering guests an outdoor bath experience beneath a canopy of stars.

Barrel View also provides exclusive, tailored group bookings with personalised service and curated food and wine experiences.

Click here for more information or to book.

Best Family Hotel: Accommodation Creek Cottages & Sundown View Suites

In the heart of Ballandean, Accommodation Creek Cottages & Sundown View Suites offer a tranquil retreat in the Granite Belt wine country. The property features three country cottages and two luxury suites. The cottages are perfect for families, accommodating between 4 and 6 people.

Each cottage has cooking facilities, including a microwave, electric frypan, toaster, kettle, and drip filter coffee maker. The cottages feature queen-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms, cozy wood fireplaces, a television and spacious verandahs with private barbecue facilities. ​

Guests can enjoy an outdoor kitchen with commercial cooking facilities, a fire pit, and badminton courts equipped with garden games, making it perfect for families.​

Click here for more information or to book.

Best Mid Range Hotel: Glen Lough Cabins

In the serene bushland of Glen Aplin, just a 15-minute drive south of Stanthorpe, Glen Lough Cabins offers a tranquil retreat in the Granite Belt region. Accommodation comprises four spacious, self-contained cabins.

Each cabin features a separate bedroom with a queen-size bed and an en-suite bathroom. The living areas have a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and fully equipped kitchens with a complimentary continental breakfast hamper. ​

Each cabin boasts a large private deck with outdoor furniture and a barbecue. The property offers on-site walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and stargazing with provided telescopes.

There is also a cabin specifically designed for accessibility and the property is pet-friendly. ​

Click here for more information or to book.

Best Budget Hotel: Stanthorpe Holiday Park

Stanthorpe Holiday Park, formerly Blue Topaz Caravan Park, is the perfect choice for those after budget accommodation while in town.

Set along the scenic Severn River just minutes from Stanthorpe’s town centre, the newly renovated holiday park offers cozy cabins, glamping in cedar chalets, powered and unpowered sites for caravans and camping, and backpacker and seasonal worker accommodations. The park is also pet-friendly.

Amenities at Stanthorpe Holiday Park include an infrared sauna, a Bath House with river views, well-maintained bathrooms, and evening activities for guests. Plus, there is an on-site cafe, and guests can even have their meals delivered to their site or cabin.

The park’s serene environment and proximity to local attractions such as wineries and national parks make it an ideal base for exploring the Granite Belt region. ​

Click here for more information or to book.

ENJOY THE GRANITE BELT REGION!

Hopefully, this guide has given you lots of inspiration on things to do in the Granite Belt Region.

If you’re planning a trip to the region, I highly recommend you check out our guide to Southern Queensland Country, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.

I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.

If you’re heading to the Granite Belt, you might also be interested in the following nearby destinations:

• Toowoomba (coming soon)
• Brisbane
• Scenic Rim (coming soon)