Granite Belt Bliss: A Wine-Infused Escape in Stanthorpe
Tucked away in the heart of Queensland, Australia, Stanthorpe lures travellers with its enticing blend of natural wonders and exquisite vineyards. Stanthorpe is situated in the Granite Belt region. It’s a destination that promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
My favourite time of the year to visit is during the winter (June, July, August) where rolling landscapes, award-winning wines, and a warm country ambiance converge to create a destination unlike any other.
Granite Belt Grandeur
Stanthorpe's claim to fame lies in its remarkable Granite Belt. It is an absolute geological wonder with incredible surrounding hiking trails. If you can master the climbs, also promises views forever! Our early morning adventures took us into the Girraween National Park, where colossal granite formations are the drawcard for many avid hikers and nature enthusiasts.
A photographers dream in this area. I made an attempt to climb to the Pyramid (which is one of the most stunning and easy walks, until the steep climb at the end) however the light rain and mist made it far too slippery to get to the top (even for the most seasoned hikers!) So your climb shall be weather dependent. DeeLuxe’s tip? - take good hiking shoes! You really do need them for venturing Giraween National Park. (Check out the pic below - I ditched the shoes thinking barefoot would work better - it didn’t! :( There are so many trails in this area. You could spend a number of days simply hiking a new direction every day. (edit: I have been back and did make it to the top! Spectacular!)
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!
After our morning adventure through Girraween, we visited the Christmas Shop. This place deserves a blog all on its own! It’s hard to put into words, the ‘feels’ of this place. The Granite Belt Christmas Farm is a 20 acre property that have an awe-inspiring Christmas Shop and over 10,000 real Christmas Trees! It is a sensory treat, as you arrive you can hear the Christmas music playing, smell the lush pine-scented fields, walk amongst beautifully shaped Christmas trees and treat yourself to a delectable Belgian hot chocolate. And then a yummy picnic basket! All kinds of wonderful!
Stanthorpe - the heart of Queensland’s wine country
Stanthorpe is a wine lover's paradise. The Granite Belt's cool climate provides an ideal setting for vineyards. We organised a small half day winery tour to explore the region. Our driver picking us up at our doorstep from our cottage. You shall find numerous cellar doors scattered in the nearby townships not far from the heart of Stanthorpe. From boutique wineries to well-established estates. As all would know, I love a good drop of wine :), and there is something really special about visiting the wineries to indulge in tastings and experience the best the region has to offer. It made it just simpler to have our own driver and small tour group. It also made it a lot of fun and a relaxing day out.
I love hearing the stories of the estate owners and the illustrious lives that led them to the path of becoming winemakers. I find their stories fascinating. The whole ambiance is incredibly peaceful and relaxing. We are about to head back to Stanthorpe and go bike riding across the wine region, (12 wineries literally right next to our Yurt! - completely organised by accident!) so shall reserve a separate blog for this, however our half day winery tour took us to Tobin Wines, Ridgemill Estate and Ballandean Estate on our stay. All simply fabulous!
Culinary Symphony - A foodie heaven
As part of our winery tour, it included a stop for a scrumptious lunch at Jamworks Gourmet Foods. What a delight (though not pictured as too busy eating!) Stanthorpe's culinary scene is a celebration of locally sourced ingredients and inventive gastronomy. The region offers farm-to-table restaurants, where chefs craft delectable dishes that showcase the richness of the Granite Belt's produce. The whole area is an absolute foodie heaven!
Rustic Retreats
Coming from mostly hot and humid Brisbane, it is lovely to escape the ordinary with a stay in Stanthorpe's charming accommodations. You shall find quaint bed and breakfasts, boutique cottages, and rural lodges that offer a cozy refuge for those seeking relaxation and a touch of country hospitality. Feels surreal to wake up to the tranquility of the countryside and to be able to immerse yourself in the region's unhurried pace of life. It feels like stepping into another dimension. Like everywhere I go, I often am caught saying ‘I could live here!’ - I think I really could!
A couple of travel tips for you:-
When I book, I typically book through Booking.com via Shopback. We were lucky enough to stay in a quaint cottage, complete with loft, pot bellied stove, which was situated just on the edge of town. Booking through this platform, simply means we get cash back. So it reduces your overall cost. More dollars to spend on other things.
Winter time is popular and so is the time of local big events or festivals. Be sure to start looking and booking relatively early so you don’t miss out.
We had a beautiful stay at Briar Rose Cottages.
Festivals of Flavour
Stanthorpe's calendar is peppered with festivals that showcase the region's vibrant spirit. The biennial Apple and Grape Harvest Festival is a highlight, drawing visitors with its lively parades, live music, and a chance to revel in the agricultural abundance that defines the area. If you are planning to visit, try to time your visit with an event. Be sure to book early though!
Artistry in the Granite
The town is adorned with street art and I loved meandering through the streets to discover the murals and sculptures.
You don’t need to wander far to find the beautiful artworks. A lovely stroll to discover such gorgeous art.
It’s a destination where the rugged beauty of the Granite Belt meets the sophistication of its wine culture. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, savouring the fruits of the vine, or simply basking in the warmth of country hospitality, Stanthorpe invites you to immerse yourself in a travel experience that lingers in the heart long after you've bid farewell.
Here's a little more on the wineries:
Ballandean Estate Wines:
Renowned for its long history and commitment to producing high-quality wines.
Offers a diverse range of wines, including reds, whites, and fortified wines. It is fairly big establishment, caters to small and large tourist groups. Beautiful inside, lots of area’s for wining and dining. Lovely lounge areas out the back. Warm and cosy inside.
Symphony Hill Wines:
Known for its focus on cool climate wines and sustainable practices.
Ask for quick look in the cellar to discover this fabulous mural!
Has received numerous awards for its varietals such as Gewürztraminer and Tempranillo.
Ridgemill Estate:
Offers a picturesque setting with vineyard views and a rustic cellar door experience. Local musicians set up to play for visitors. We thought this was a highlight. Is one of the few places that has boutique cottage accommodation on the actual estate. I would love to coordinate a bunch of friends to stay there for a long weekend. What a great time to be had with family and friends.
Definitely coming back to stay here for a weekend! Very popular. Ridgemill estate - cute stays overlooking the vineyard.
Produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Merlot.
Granite Ridge Wines:
Family-owned winery with a commitment to producing wines that reflect the unique Granite Belt terroir.
Known for its red wine varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Golden Grove Estate:
A well-established winery with a reputation for producing high-quality wines.
Known for its Italian varietals, including Barbera and Nebbiolo.
A litte on accommodation:
Stanthorpe offers a range of accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to countryside lodges. The best place for you to stay depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're seeking.
Here are some diverse options that cater to different tastes:
Diamondvale Cottages:
Offers private cottages surrounded by picturesque gardens.
Self-contained accommodations with modern amenities.
Perfect for couples or families looking for a tranquil retreat.
Alure Stanthorpe:
Luxury accommodation with private villas featuring spa baths and fireplaces.
Stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Ideal for couples seeking a romantic and indulgent getaway.
Girraween Environmental Lodge:
Eco-friendly accommodation nestled in the Girraween National Park (outside of Stanthorpe itself).
Cabins and lodges with a focus on sustainability and nature immersion.
Suitable for those who appreciate a rustic, yet comfortable experience.
31 The Rocks:
Stylish studios and villas with modern furnishings.
Located close to the heart of Stanthorpe, providing easy access to attractions.
Well-suited for couples or small groups looking for contemporary accommodations.
Apple & Grape Motel:
A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms.
Conveniently located near the town center and attractions.
Suitable for travellers looking for affordable and practical accommodation.
Honeysuckle Cottages:
Quaint cottages set in a peaceful rural setting.
Offers a mix of traditional and modern amenities.
Great for those who want a charming, country-style experience.
Vineyard Cottages and Cafe:
Cottages surrounded by lush gardens, close to the vineyards in the area.
Provides a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Perfect for wine enthusiasts. (This is in Ballandean, just a little outside of Stanthorpe). We have loved staying in Ballandean.
Before making a reservation, it's advisable to check recent reviews on travel platforms to ensure that the accommodation meets your expectations. Additionally, consider the time of year you plan to visit, as Stanthorpe's popularity can vary, especially during events and festivals.
Winter time is a firm favourite season! We always hope to get out there at least a couple of times during the winter.
Very good for the soul! When are you planning to visit?
Cheers
DeeLuxe
