GoGet Road Trip: A Weekend Getaway in Stanthorpe QLD
Located in the gorgeous Granite Belt Region, just under 3 hours southwest of Brisbane CBD, Stanthorpe is the perfect weekend getaway from Brisbane.
At 800m above sea level Stanthorpe is one of Queensland’s coolest towns, and a great place to avoid sweltering summer days, making it as good for a cosy winter break as it is for a summer escape.
Here we give you a guide to some of the best things to do on a weekend getaway to Stanthorpe.
Sample Local Produce
The Granite Belt boasts some of Queensland’s best local produce thanks to its rich soils and temperate climate.
Stanthorpe is Queensland’s apple country, so be sure to stop by the famous Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cider and Shed Café. Try their iconic apple pie with cider ice-cream, you won’t regret it!
From October to May, it’s strawberry season on the Granite Belt. Visit Ashbern Farms for the freshest strawberries. You can buy them freshly packed, or pick your own. Their strawberry sundaes are also not to be missed.
Visit in February and early March for the annual Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Harvest Festival, which is one of Queensland’s longest running festivals. If you’ve ever wanted to stomp some grapes, here’s your chance. Warning: it does get messy so dress appropriately.
Get in Touch With Nature at Girraween National Park
Just a half hour drive from Stanthorpe you can find the spectacular Girraween National Park. Meaning ‘place of flowers’, Girraween National Park combines prehistoric granite rocks, precariously balanced boulders, flowing streams and natural rock pools. In spring, the park comes alive with wildflowers among the granite.
To view the famous Balancing Rock, take the Pyramid Track. It’s a strenuous 1.5-2-hour hike, with steep climbs near the rock summit. It is exposed so take plenty of water!
Explore Local Wineries
Think you need to leave Queensland to sample some delicious local vino? Think again. The Granite Belt has a wine history dating back over 150 years and is home to Queensland’s burgeoning wine scene. Specialising in Shiraz, the area also grows fabulous Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons. Make sure to visit GoGet favourite Tobin Wines and enjoy a sunset drink and grazing board at Summit Estate.
Looking for something a bit different? Try the Strange Bird Alternative Wine Trail and discover some the Granite Belt’s “strange birds” or lesser-known varietals. To be called alternative, a varietal must make up less than 1% of the total bearing vines in Australia. From Gracianos to Durifs, Alvarinhos to Marsannes, these can all be found in the Granite Belt.
If you’re after a bit of exercise between wine tastings, why not hire a bike? Arm yourself with your Strange Birds trail map and meander along quiet country roads, taking in the beautiful scenery. Fully guided adventures are also available.
GoGet out there!
If you’re a GoGet member, then there’s nothing standing in your way! Book a car today and hit the road. No Membership? No problem! We’ve got the perfect plan for you!
