Want to experience a true winter this year? Before you start planning a July jaunt to our southern states, simply head two hours south west to Stanthorpe, the coolest place in the State!  Here’s how to spend a winter weekend escape:

Hit the road nice and early, stopping in Warwick for a late breaky or coffee on the way. Sitting on the banks of the Condamine River, historic Warwick – known for its roses and rodeo – features some of the state’s finest original sandstone buildings, providing some pretty beautiful views while stretching your legs.  From there, Stanthorpe is less than an hour away.

About 20 minutes short of Stanthorpe lies the small village of Thulimbah, home to some of the region’s most popular providores and restaurants. There you’ll find Sutton’s Juice Factory and Cidery, famous for their apple pie, or the Big Apple (pictured) at Vincenzo’s.

Drop your car off at your accommodation and get ready to explore Queensland’s premier wine destination. The Granite Belt is home to over 30 cellar doors, many who are rated 4-5 stars by James Halliday, so it can be hard to know which ones to visit. Join one of the tour companies or if you’re feeling adventurous, embark on a cycling tour of the region with a local guide.

A big day wine tasting calls for an early night by the fire sampling the day’s purchases. Cozy up fireside and let the romance of winter take you off to sleep.

Rug up and head to Girraween National Park (about 30 mins south of Stanthorpe), to explore one of its many walking trails. You’ll soon see why this is one of Queensland’s most photographed national parks, with spectacular boulders balancing precariously on mountaintops. Not sure which trail to conquer? Check out this How to Guide and get ready for some seriously insta-worthy views!

Stock your picnic basket with some of the goodies found across the Granite Belt, and head to a local park to bask in the midday sun and refuel your body. A popular option is Quart Pot Creek, just in front of the Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre. If the weather isn’t cooperating, head to one of the local restaurants, cafes and country pubs, with many offering paddock to plate experiences celebrating the Granite Belt’s seasonal produce.

Head into town to visit the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery, which houses works from prominent Queensland artists as well as the pièce de résistance: a Picasso lithograph! A visit to the Stanthorpe Heritage Museum will keep you busy, with over 200,000 artefacts telling the stories of the people and events that have shaped this area, rich in culture.

Before you head home, stop at one of the roadside stalls or drop into a local fruit and veg shop for some of the most delicious, seasonal produce you can get your hands on.

Head home via Warwick and through Cunningham’s Gap, or keep the weekend vibes going with a scenic drive through Killarney, taking in the popular Falls Drive as you head back to Brisbane via Boonah.

Keep in mind that weekend accommodation in Stanthorpe can book very quickly in Winter! Either plan well ahead or take some well deserved R&R and head south for a mid week break instead!