Nestled at the inland convergence of Queensland and New South Wales, the Granite Belt is a charming destination known for assorted attractions. From a medley of National Park wonders, to its treasure trove of wine culture, the region’s charm extends throughout the year. It comes alive in the winter months, occasionally even getting a light dusting of snow. Summer is harvest season, with some orchards in the area even allowing you to pick your own fruit. For adventure, relaxation, or indulgence, the Granite Belt region provides a wonderful variety of experiences for every traveller.
Where is the Granite Belt Region of Australia?
The Granite Belt region is situated in southern Queensland, Australia, adjacent to the New South Wales border. It is primarily cantered around the town of Stanthorpe, which is located to the southwest of Brisbane. The Granite Belt region includes a considerable portion of southern Queensland, but also extends toward the New South Wales border.
How to get to the Granite Belt
If you’re coming from Brisbane or nearby areas, traveling by car is a convenient choice. The Granite Belt is approximately 230 kilometres southwest of Brisbane, and the drive typically takes around 3 hours. For those who prefer public transportation, numerous bus companies operate services to the Granite Belt region from Brisbane and other major cities in Queensland.
While the Granite Belt doesn’t have its own commercial airport, you can catch flights to Gold Coast Airport or Brisbane from major cities in Australia. From there, you can easily arrange motorhome hire to enjoy the freedom and flexibility it offers for exploring the Granite Belt region at your own pace.
Things to do in the Granite Belt
As you delve into the treasure trove of experiences waiting in the Granite Belt region, you’ll quickly discover breathtaking landscapes, scrumptious flavours, and lasting memories. Indulge in a glass of wine, discover craft breweries, bike rides through the countryside, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich farming heritage.
Here’s a selection of must-see places and must-do activities that will ensure your journey through the Granite Belt is unforgettable.
Girraween National Park
This National Park NEEDS to be on your Granite Belt to-do list. It’s more than just stunning – it’s a natural wonderland. Massive granite boulders are scattered throughout with bursts of wildflowers adding colour to the landscape. There are walking trails here suitable for everyone, from easy strolls to challenging grade 4 hikes. But the real gem is the Pyramid Walk, leading you to a colossal granite boulder balancing on a tiny rock edge. Pick up a motorhome hire Brisbane and spend a few nights in the on-site campground.
Wine Tasting
The Granite Belt is a haven for wine lovers, boasting more than 50 wineries ready to be explored. From the well-known Ballandean Estate to the cozy Granite Belt Vineyards and the elegant Ridgemill Wines, this region offers a diverse wine-tasting experience. Ballandean Estate, a pioneer in Granite Belt winemaking, is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy exceptional wines that have received national and international acclaim. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the wine-tasting process, sharing insights into the history and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Granite Belt Vineyards, on the other hand, provides a more intimate and relaxed setting. This boutique winery offers a charming atmosphere to sample their excellent wines. The smaller size of the winery allows for a more personalized experience, where you can delve deeper into the wines and their unique stories.
For a touch of elegance, Ridgemill Wines is an excellent choice. Their winery offers a refined ambiance that complements their premium wines. It’s an ideal destination if you want to combine wine appreciation with a hint of luxury.
Brewery and Cidery Visits
For craft beer and cider enthusiasts, the Granite Belt has you covered. Stop by Granite Belt Brewery, Scenic Rim Brewery, and Suttons Cidery for a great time.
Granite Belt Brewery offers guided tours, a variety of unique brews, and a delicious meal at their on-site restaurant. Scenic Rim Brewery, nestled in beautiful surroundings, provides a scenic setting to sample craft beers and enjoy a warm atmosphere. Suttons Cidery, on the other hand, is a cider lover’s paradise, with guided tours and a selection of distinctive ciders. Each of these places ensures a memorable experience for those who appreciate craft beverages and delicious food.
Scenic Bike Rides
The Granite Belt is a paradise for cyclists with its scenic roads, quiet country lanes, and rolling hills. One of the most popular cycling trails is the Granite Belt Bike Trail. It’s a 34-kilometre track winding through vineyards and countryside, starting in Stanthorpe and ending in Ballandean. The trail is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it perfect for cyclists of any level.
Farm Tours
Ashbern Farms, Suttons Juice Factory and Cidery, and Jamworks Gourmet Foods Café and Larder are some great local farms to visit in the Granite Belt region. Farm tours are a great way to learn about the Granite Belt region’s farming industry and to sample some of the delicious fresh produce and local products that are made on site. Some farms offer more general tours, while others are more specialized, such as truffle tours or cooking classes.
Stargazing
Thanks to the region’s dark night skies, it’s an ideal spot for stargazing. You can join a stargazing tour or simply find a quiet spot to gaze at the stars and lose yourself in the celestial wonders above. Top spots include Girraween National Park, with its dark night skies and granite boulders creating a natural amphitheatre for stargazing. For an immersive experience, Twinstar Guesthouse and Observatory offers guided tours with telescopes. The Granite Belt Brewery provides a cozy outdoor space for stargazing while enjoying a cheeky drink.
Granite Belt Christmas Farm
This farm is a popular year-round destination, with its peak during the Christmas season. This festive farm features a Christmas shop with decorations and gifts, a Santa’s workshop for kids to meet Santa, a reindeer enclosure, a scenic Christmas train ride, and a dazzling light display with over 1 million lights. To complete the experience, there’s a cozy café serving a range of treats, from hot chocolate to Belgian waffles and Christmas pudding.
The Granite Belt region offers a diverse selection of experiences and attractions to captivate visitors from near and far.