The Big Apple/in /by

Stanthorpe is where all of Queensland’s apple crop is grown, with more than one million trees surrounding the area it’s no surprise this is where you can find The Big Apple.

Stanthorpe’s Big Apple is 13km north of Stanthorpe along the New England Highway in the area called Thulimbah. The Big Apple sits outside Vincenzo’s at The Big Apple – a cafe, deli and wine bar.

Stop of a photo holding up the apple, pretending to eat it – we and visitors alike can’t help but stop to take these fun photos.

Why a big apple?… well Stanthorpe and particularly the Granite Belt villages north of Stanthorpe such as Thulimbah are where all of Queensland’s apple crop is grown. There are orchards everywhere around the countryside and Stanthorpe even has it’s own Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival every second year in February/May.

A Little Bit of History… The Big Apple was built in 1978 by local tradesman John Ross and erected by Brian Wilmot at Vincenzo’s a popular tourist spot near Stanthorpe in Queensland, Australia. The Big Apple was originally painted green, but has since been pained the colour of a red Royal Gala apple.

Varias/in , /by

Dine, wine taste and experience the amazing facility that is Varias. A learning centre focused on all thing’s food, wine, tourism and hospitality.

It’s award winning Varias Restaurant is renown for showcasing local food and wines, and the talented young local who prepare and serve them. The Banca Ridge winery and Tastes of the Granite Belt cellar door provide a wonderful introduction to the region’s wine.

In February/March the popular Winemaker for a Weekend program coincides with grape harvest at the College.

Provides quality training and learning experiences based in a true commercial operation.

The Granite Belt Maze/in /by

The Granite Belt Maze offers an amazing experience, where each customer has to solve their own unique riddle, while navigating their way through the maze.

These riddles don’t help you find your way, instead they make you search every part of the maze from start to finish, and actually get you lost. Then there’s another timber maze and a hexagonal maze with obstacles.

There’s a fairly challenging nine hole mini golf course, a giant musical instrument to play. Around the grounds are some great photo opportunities, with a guillotine, stocks and a giant chair.

They have a well stocked kiosk with pies, sausage rolls, ice creams and tea & coffee, cold drinks, toasted sandwiches, hot dogs, beef/ chicken gravy rolls etc and snack foods.

The mazes and golf offer hours of fun and entertainment for all age groups.

Aussie Beef Steakhouse/in /by

Discover a local a la carte dining experience, where they take pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They work closely with local Paddock to Plate butchers to ensure only the most premium quality, consistent products reach your plate.

Located in one of the highest altitude wine producing regions in Australia, the area is blessed with unique boutique wineries and local wine makers. Taste your way through the Granite Belt over their extensive wine list and savour the flavour of wines crafted from the nearby vineyards at the hands of local winemakers.

Over Wine? You will be sure to find a new favourite in their extensive cocktail menu.

Bringing traditional service back to your table, their friendly waitstaff are on hand to assist, suggest and impress.

Whether you’re here to celebrate a special occasion, explore the stunning Granite Belt, or simply delight in a standout meal, they invite you to join them for an experience that highlights the best of the region.

Book your table today!

Warwick Art Gallery/in , /by

A must‑visit destination for travellers, the Gallery showcases the region’s rich artistic identity through a dynamic mix of exhibitions, creative programs and community‑driven events. Visitors can explore an ever‑changing lineup of inspiring touring exhibitions alongside works that celebrate local talent and stories.

The Gallery features two distinctive spaces: a main gallery that hosts major exhibitions, and a light‑filled foyer gallery with garden views, perfect for a relaxed and welcoming visitor experience.

So if you’re planning a weekend escape or exploring Warwick’s cultural scene, check the latest exhibitions and events to make the most of your visit.

View Wine Cellar Door/in , /by

View Wine is produced by Sancerre Estate Vineyard, award winning wine from the heart of the Granite Belt, Ballandean, Queensland.

Visit for a casual wine tasting with the owner’s, or stay a little longer and share a bottle of wine with friends on the outdoor terraces taking in the views and sunsets of the Ballandean Valley and Girraween National Park. The Cellar Door offers several Grape 2 Glass experiences from Masterclasses to Food and Wine Pairing. You can even ‘Geek out on Wine’ if you are more interested in the science of wine.

The wine is a combination of quality grapes and unique terroir. For the wine to become premium quality they use only the best grapes harvested by hand only picking the best.

The Granite Belt is Queensland premier wine region, within the Stanthorpe area.

Their Shiraz was recently awarded as a James Halliday Top 100 wine.

Make sure you say Hi to Brad & Stacey when you visit View Wine.

Ballandean Estate Wines/in , /by

Your wine discovery starts here — in the beating heart of the Granite Belt. Ballandean Estate Wines is a feast for the senses and a must-do for wine lovers and foodies. Bring your friends and family, sink into a leather lounge, and indulge in a wine flight of your choice, signature platters, a Strange Bird varietal, or a glass of their world famous Saperavi.

Since 1932, the Puglisi family has been making wine on our family estate, and they would love to share their world-class wines with you. The estate is home to some of Australia’s oldest Shiraz vines, and rarest wine varietals. At Queensland’s oldest family-owned and operated winery, every bottle tells a story, of people, place and passion.

Ballandean Estate is open seven days for wine tastings, wine sales and lunch. You can experience a relaxed tasting and platters of local produce in the region’s first wine lounge, The Barrelroom.

The Cellar Door is friendly and large. You can shop for local produce at its Gourmet Food Gallery.

Storm King Dam/in , /by

Storm King Dam rests in a picturesque rural setting with many water birds (including pelicans) and is an ideal spot for picnics, water sport and fishing. Fish species include golden perch, Murray cod, silver perch, jewfish and river blackfish. Anglers over 18 years of age require a fishing permit, available from any Australia Post outlet.

Facilities include toilets, picnic tables, wood barbecues, drinking water, jetty, boat ramp, swimming area and playground. Please note that camping is not permitted however there is a private tourist park offering camping and caravan sites, and a recreational/youth camp available for large group bookings.

Storm King Dam is situated 10 kilometres southeast of Stanthorpe on the road to Eukey.

Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery/in /by

Free entry, open to all, and bursting with inspiration, this must-see Granite Belt gem showcases top national and regional artistic talent.

Come and see the latest exhibitions, browse the gift shop, and have a chat with the friendly volunteers.

Check for the egular events – music, film, workshops and more!

be pART of it!

Bungawarra Wines/in /by

Expect a 100 percent boutique winery experience at Bungawarra Wines, and you will come to taste that size really does make a difference.

With vineyards established over a century ago, Bungawarra, meaning ‘granite rock by shallow water’, has a long tradition of winemaking on the Granite Belt.

This small family-owned winery has a simple focus on growing the best naturally-produced fruit to produce the best-flavoured wine.

All phases of winemaking, from fruit production to bottling, are carried out on the estate with the personal attention of wine-makers Jeff and Tom.

Upon arriving at the spectacular bush setting, let your palate be personally guided through their wines from reds, whites, dry to sweet, including their famed liqueur muscat from 90-year-old vines, and you will gain a real appreciation of both the care and hard work that crafts their wines.

Varieties planted are Semillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Muscat, and the two Strange Bird varieties Gewurztraminer and Malbec. All are lovingly tended with sustainable vineyard practices so that what you have in your glass expresses the individuality of Bungawarra.

Enjoy tasting them in the beautiful setting here among the hills of Ballandean. Picnic facilities are available too.

The Abbey/in , , /by

Discover the charm and history of The Abbey with a self-guided tour of our downstairs rooms and gardens. Tours are available on most weekdays, but as we sometimes close for weddings and other private events, we kindly ask that you call ahead to book your visit.

As one of Warwick’s significant heritage landmarks, this Victorian/Gothic building stands as a tribute to those who envisioned and constructed it. During your tour, you can admire our beautifull gardens, opulent furnishings, stunning original stained glass crafted in German at the Royal Bavarian Institute in Munich (renowned for their work at the Vatican), and a distinguished statue designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the same artist behind the Statue of Liberty in New York!

For those seeking a unique experience, The Abbey also operates as a stately sandstone, heritage-listed boutique hotel. Originally built in 1891 as a convent and schoolhouse for the Sisters of Mercy, it offers a memorable stay.

Step back into the romance of yesteryear.

Stanthorpe Art Trail/in /by

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Stanthorpe through the artistically expressed thoughts, feelings, and dreams of the town’s talented creative community. Murals, sculptures, and mosaics are the mediums through which the captivating stories of this remarkable place are told on the Stanthorpe Art Trail. The best way to find and admire all of this amazing artwork is with the official Southern Downs Visitor App.

Download the official Southern Downs Visitor App and start planning your next Southern Downs adventure today. The Visitor App is the ultimate travel resource for the Southern Downs that helps you explore even more.

Artworks Heritage Station Cafe/in /by

The Artworks Heritage Station Café is a weekend community, totally volunteer run Café.

They serve an all-day and great barista coffee every Saturday and Sunday. Inside (air-conditioned), verandah covered seating and outdoor seating on the platform.

The café operates alongside their Main Art Exhibition Gallery and there is a gallery of member’s works in Café.

Zenik Hippy Shop/in /by

The main purpose at Zenik Hippy Shop is to provide each person who walks through the door with a positive, uplifting and enlightening experience. It is a space to relax, unwind and have a chat. They do their absolute best to ensure that anyone who visits them leaves with a smile on their face.

Their store stocks a wide range of metaphysical and spiritual products such as Crystals, Tarot Cards, Singing Bowls, Incense, Prayer Flags and Dried Medicinal Herbs, just to name a few. Along with a variety of other products including Jewellery, Clothing, Home Decor, Ornaments and much more. As well as showcasing some of the amazing artistic talent in the area with locally made Jewellery, Paintings, Pottery, Dreamcatchers and Skin Care.

They also provide a Free Book Nook containing books on everything from spiritual practices and mindfulness to natural healing and nutrition. These book are for anyone to take and enjoy, as we believe knowledge and information should never have a price.

Stanthorpe Heritage Trail/in /by

Stride into the history of Tin Town on the Stanthorpe Heritage Trail!

While corsets, three-piece suits and top hats are not compulsory, you might be tempted to dress the part as you walk in the footsteps of those who shaped this historic town in the late 19th Century and beyond.

The Stanthorpe Heritage Trail is a self-guided trail that is mapped and described on the free official Southern Downs & Granite Belt Visitor App.

The Southern Downs & Granite Belt Visitor App can be used 100% offline and features up-to-date information about the region’s attractions, accommodation, events, restaurants, tourist drives, walking trails and more.

Download the Southern Downs & Granite Belt Visitor App from the App Store or Google Play and start exploring today!

This trail is approximately 2 kilometres long and will take under 1 hour of walking time to complete. Extra time will be required to take in the history and admire the architecture.

Images courtesy of the State Library of Queensland.

Bistro on King/in , /by

From the moment customers step into Bistro on King you are greeted and directed to your table by their friendly team members and informed of the specials and where the facilities are located. They have an extensive menu of great food, with vegetarian and gf options, for both lunch and dinner and barista coffee. You can “Jump the Q’ and order directly from your table or simply line up – your meals are bought to your table.

The kids are supplied with free colouring in pencils and access to the kids area that is in sight of all diners and they offer free WiFi. Guests have a full visual range of Keno, sports and ‘whats on” and low background music is played to create a relaxed ambience. There is a bar in the dining area and they have an extensive wine List.

The Folly Truffles/in /by

The Folly is Queensland’s first commercial truffle farm, situated in Ballandean, Queensland, at the heart of Granite Belt Wine Country.

The Folly Truffles welcome visitors to their truffiere on weekends with tours available all year round, and truffle hunts during harvest season, end of June to August. As it is a working farm, bookings are essential to avoid disappointment.

Warwick Art Trail/in /by

Discover the artistic side of Warwick. Start by exploring the hive of visual art and cultural activity that is the Warwick Art Gallery and then step out on a walking tour of the city’s many and varied public art installations. This is so much more than an opportunity to admire amazing artwork. It’s also a chance to learn about the thoughtfulness, resilience, pride, sophistication, culture, and creativity of the people who live here.

Download the official Southern Downs Visitor App and start planning your next Southern Downs adventure today. The Visitor App is the ultimate travel resource for the Southern Downs that helps you explore even more.

Banca Ridge Winery at Varias/in , , /by

The Banca Ridge Winery and Cellar Door is located at Varias, in the centre of Queensland’s Granite Belt Wine Region, the Cellar Door is open to the public.

The Cellar Door provides a commercial education and training context for students of the college and features the award winning Banca Ridge wines made by the students in the teaching winery.

Visitors can browse through the interpretive gallery which tells the story of the Queensland wine industry. Let their tourism students lead you through tastings of the full range of Banca Ridge wines. Their cellar door also showcases award winning Queensland wines.

Stanthorpe Street Art/in , /by

Stanthorpe’s CBD is scattered with street art between its boutique shopping and cafes. However, the giant murals are striking features that tell the story of the town and done by esteemed local and Australian artists and are well worth seeking out.

One of the most distinctive murals is the one opposite the post office that depicts Angelo Valiante, who turned 100 in the month of completion. Mr Valiante was one of the first Italians to settle in Stanthorpe. The work pays homage to the Italian community that has made the region what it is today (source: Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery).

See the murals and sculptures on foot, from Weeroona Park to the streets and lanes off the main street. A map and guide to the street art are available from the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery in Weeroona Park or the Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre.

Warwick Heritage Trail/in /by

As one of Queensland’s earliest settlements, Warwick is home to some of the State’s most interesting European history. Gazetted in 1847, Warwick’s first land sales occurred in 1850. As the town became established, stone from local quarries was used to construct the many fine sandstone public and private buildings for which Warwick is justly famous. After 1900, a second building boom gave Warwick a legacy of many fine Federation-era timber and brick buildings. Travel back in time with this walk that will take you past some of Warwick’s most grand heritage buildings. The best way to find and admire all of this magnificent architecture is with the official Southern Downs Visitor App.

Download the official Southern Downs Visitor App and start planning your next Southern Downs adventure today. The Visitor App is the ultimate travel resource for the Southern Downs that helps you explore even more.

This trail is 6.75 kilometres long and will take just under 2 hours walking time to complete. Extra time will be required to take in the history and admire the architecture. If the total distance is too far for you to cover on foot, you may prefer to jump in the car to look at some of the buildings that are furthest from town, such as the Warwick National School, the National Hotel, the Warwick Railway Complex, and Cloisters.

Bent Road Winery & Distillery/in , , /by

Bent Road Winery and Distillery offers a one-of-a-kind cellar door experience in the heart of Queensland’s Granite Belt.

Set inside a working winery and distillery, this relaxed and rustic space invites guests to enjoy personal, guided wine tastings in a truly immersive setting.

Visitors can explore a rotating selection of small-batch, minimal intervention wines under the La Petite Mort and Wilhelm Scream labels—ranging from classic varietals to bold, experimental blends.

The experience often includes insights into traditional methods like qvevri fermentation, making each tasting both educational and entertaining. For those wanting to dive deeper, the winery also hosts seasonal masterclasses and behind-the-scenes experiences with the winemaking team.

As a licensed distillery, spirits tastings are also available, showcasing artisan gin and other craft spirits made onsite.

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or simply curious, Bent Road offers an authentic, hands-on tasting experience that celebrates the art of wine and spirit making.

The Big Thermometer/in /by

Stanthorpe is Queensland’s colest town and this is marked on the readings shown on Stanthorpe’s Big Thermometer.

See the Big Thermometer next to the Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre, with toilets available onsite and picnic tables.

From The Big Thermometer there are lovely pathways that follow the creekside right through Stanthorpe, or if you cross the creek on the other side of the bridge and head west you’ll end up at the historic Red Bridge, a popular spot to explore.

Castle Glen Australia/in /by

Castle Glen “Castle in a Valley” was established in 1990 by Cedric Miller and is located on the Granite Belt, with a truly amazing Cellar Door.

The award winning Castle Glen has created a reputation in the market place for world class, all natural, preservative free and chemical free alcohol products. This means no allergic reactions or headaches. The product range of table, fortified and sparkling wines, liqueurs, beers and distilled products including Single Malt Whiskeys, capture the imagination of those who visit.

Castle Glen is securing an unrivalled place in the industry by winning 82 National and International Awards at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards, Australian Rum Awards and Australian International Rum Awards over the past 9 years with a 5 Gold Medals and 3 Champion Awards.

Castle Glen is known for it’s organic grape growing practices in it’s well established vineyard. Castle Glen is well known for its impressive range of english style liqueurs, including fruit, chocolate, coffee, rum and whiskey. The Distillery produces a range of award winning Rum, Single Malt Whiskeys, Gin and alternative spirits. The brewery produces a diverse range of beers from pale ales to the double dark. Also the famous Ginger brew and natural fruit ciders.

Castle Glen products are also available at Montville and Tamborine Mountain Cellar doors.

The Little Brass Monkey/in /by

The Brass Monkey statue in Stanthorpe’s CBD is a famous little fellow that marks the town’s claim to get ‘cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey’. Stanthorpe district celebrates four seasons, the most popular being Brass Monkey Season during the winter months.

Not as crude as it may sound, the origin of the ‘cold enough to freeze the balls of the brass monkey’ saying originates by popular account from an occurrence on sailing ships, where the brass monkey was the name given to a metal rack used to store cannon balls.

The plaque that sits by the little Brass Monkey statue in Stanthorpe’s CBD reads “in long ago wars artillerymen had a brass plate called a monkey, which sat alongside the canon. The plate held 30 cannonballs stacked pyramid-like, until on freezing nights the monkey would shrink and the balls would fall off, hence the expression ‘cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey’.”

Right next to the Brass Monkey is an incredible mural depicting Angelo Valiante who turned 100 in the month of completion. Mr Valiante was one of the first Italians to settle in Stanthorpe and the work pays homage to the Italian community that have made the region what it is today.

Stanthorpe has a mural and street art trail, with brochures at the Visitor Information Centre.

Balancing Heart Vineyard Cafe & Cellar Door/in , , /by

Discover Balancing Heart Vineyard: a premier Granite Belt winery offering award-winning wines, delicious food, and unforgettable vineyard experiences with stunning views. Proudly family friendly.

Balancing Heart Vineyard is a sensational vineyard and lifestyle destination on the Granite Belt, Queensland, only three hours from Brisbane or the Gold Coast where passion, nature and granite collide to craft truly exceptional wines, delicious food and authentic experiences with heart.

Taste the balance of the art and science in winemaking, where the history and elevated Granite Belt position is unlocked to deliver delicious and award-winning cool-climate wines.

Stroll the spectacular vineyard, visit iconic natural granite sculptures, gaze across the wide Queensland country vistas, and indulge in the comfort of warm country service, exceptional wine and tasty food.

Enjoy a range of vineyard experiences including free wine tasting, free self-guided vineyard tour, free farm animal feeding.

The Red Bridge/in , /by

Sitting astride Quart Pot Creek in Stanthorpe is the historic and truly impressive Red Bridge, accessed by a short walk. The bridge, which is no longer red as its name suggests, was built in the mid-1880s without modern equipment, using manpower, horse-drawn drays and explosives.

It’s an enjoyable and easy walk to reach the bridge, and when there, visitors enjoy the photo opportunity and the opportunity to cross the creek on the low-level boardwalk or hop across the rocks to explore the creekside below the bridge.

Quart Pot Creek meanders all the way through Stanthorpe, with five kilometres of walking pathways following the creek, dotted with lovely spots to picnic and playgrounds along the way.

To reach The Ridge Bridge, park at the Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre and walk from there, which involves crossing the creek near Maryland Street bridge on the low-level pedestrian bridge below the vehicle bridge. Then turn right to walk eastward towards Red Bridge which is less than one kilometre.

Alternatively, park closer to Red Bridge at the small parking lot where Rose Street meets Anzac Street at Heritage Park. Follow the creekside pathway in the direction away from the town centre, leading straight to the Red Bridge.

Ashbern Farms/in /by

Ashbern Farms is open to the public three days a week during the strawberry season which is from October to May each year. The aim is to ensure all enjoy the best strawberry-eating experience possible. To achieve this, Ashbern Farms focuses on the best eating varieties and grows them in a way that guarantees quality and sweetness. Using many natural products to produce strawberries, Ashbern Farms has a reputation locally for having the sweetest and best-looking strawberries available.

Ashbern Farms offers visitors the opportunity to pick their own strawberries with trays supplied, or if you like they can provide you with a range of ready-packed strawberries for your convenience. There is also a shop that serves strawberry ice-creams and other refreshments. There is a range of gifts and other merchandise for visitors to purchase.

The farm has picnic tables and children’s swings for visitors to use at their leisure whilst taking in the beautiful surroundings and daily activities of farming life. Ashbern Farms also caters for school groups by appointment.

Customers pay for strawberries picked by weight. No need to book.

Wallangarra Historic Railway Station/in /by

Stand with one foot in Queensland and one foot in New South Wales when you stand on that station platform at the historic Wallangarra Railway Station.

The railway station at Wallangarra was built in 1888 to service travellers who had to change trains from the standard gauge of New South Wales to Queensland’s narrow gauge. The two trains met here and you will note the differing architecture of the platform façades too.

One side of the platform reflects the New South Wales standard design for railways of that era, with a skillion roof, while the other is Queensland’s design with its bullnose verandah roof.

Allora Railway Hotel/in /by

Located in Allora, ‘the best little town on the Downs’, just off the highway between Toowoomba and Warwick, the Railway Hotel opened it’s doors in 1902.

Fully licensed with a newly renovated beer garden, pokies, KENO and Accommodation the Railway Hotel is fully equipped to host your next event – even if that is just drinks on a Friday night with some mates.

Serving both lunch and Dinner Monday-Saturday and pizzas on Sunday night, the pub serves the locals on both a social and corporate level with facilities to host functions with up to 130 people in 2 locations, local club meetings or just a social beer after work of an afternoon.

​Friday night Raffles at 7pm, footy tipping and live bands throughout the year.

Good old fashioned, friendly staff and ever a local in sight for a yarn, this friendly country pub will have you wanting to visit again and again.

Washpool Supply Co/in /by

Washpool Supply Co. is a natural soap, skincare, home health and giftware store in Stanthorpe, southern Queensland, which is part of the Granite Belt wine region.

The purpose built store opened in July 2022, after 13 years of being located in the nearby town of Ballandean, and provides a full sensory experience for locals and visiting tourists to the area wanting the complete Granite Belt experience. You will see the artisans handcrafting luxurious raw materials into gorgeous natural products for healthy skin and home. There is a product testing station to try the soap ranges, handwashes, shaving soap and more, and the team love nothing more than helping with gift selection and wrapping.

The store contains a coffee bar, where you can enjoy an organic coffee or specialty tea, whilst you browse the store surroundings, or watch the products being made in the lab. Friendly pets are welcome to visit too!

The Washpool products are made with natural ingredients including essential oils, and are supported with sustainable and ethical production and business practices.

There’s nothing better than immersing yourself in the full Washpool experience, or booking into one of the soap making workshops to learn to make your own soap.

Washpool Supply Co. is easily accessible and parking is provided nearby.

Boireann Winery/in /by

Boireann is a boutique vineyard and winery specializing in high-quality, red wines.

Awarded with a James Halliday red 5-star rating, we have been consistently making quality wine since 1995.

Mt Marlay Mountain Bike Trails/in , /by

Discover the fun of mountain biking on granite at Mt Marlay in Stanthorpe, where you’ll find trails to match all levels of difficulty, from beginners to experienced riders.

Mt Marlay is so close to the beautiful town of Stanthorpe, just 1.5kms from the town’s main street’s shops and cafes.

Since opening in 2018, the trails have been attracting both mountain biking enthusiasts and families giving it a try for the first time on the less challenging trails.

The Granite Belt is famous for its spectacular granite boulders and interesting granite outcrops and its here visitors can experience the thrill of riding on that granite.

Green Granite (green – beginners)
Rusty (green – beginners)
The Grape Escape (blue – little more challenging)
On The Rocks (blue – little more challenging)
Hammerhead (black – experienced riders)
Tankslapper (black – experienced riders)
Gnarly Marlay (black – experienced riders)

A distinct advantage is that the Stanthorpe region trails (including Passchendaele State Forest and Broadwater State Forest) are on sand base, so when other trails around Queensland which are clay based are still unsuitable to ride after rain, Stanthorpe’s trails are ready to ride pretty much straight after a rain event.

For more information visit Trailforks website and also The Stanthorpe Mountain Biking Club on Facebook.

Eastern Colour/in /by

The Baronio family has been growing fresh Australian produce in the Stanthorpe district since the 1930s and at Applethorpe since the mid-1970s. Over the years, they’ve developed many different types of fruits and vegetables in various locations. But today, it’s all about fresh Aussie strawberries and apples grown on their home farm in one of the prettiest and highest altitude spots in Queensland. Their location is the secret ingredient to producing some of Australia’s best fruit – fertile soils, cool nights, warm days, and plenty of glorious Queensland sunshine combine to ripen and sweeten their fruits to perfection.

During harvesting, their farm is open one weekend a month for people to come along and pick their juicy strawberries or crisp and crunchy apples. But, of course, which fruit is available depends on the time of year.

Bring the whole family to enjoy a fun day in the country, including your pet on a leash.

Bookings are essential to ensure that Eastern Colour has plenty of fruit for everyone to pick, so please see the website for further details and the next picking events.

Sentimental Rocks/in , /by

Take an easy walk through clusters of giant granite boulders along the bush walking tracks at Sentimental Rocks.

This location is not well signposted and parking is unmarked but available on the roadside at the end of Jardine Street, where the walking track begins. Sentimental Rocks is a great alternative to the National Parks for those that have less time on their trip to Stanthorpe, as Sentimental Rocks is tucked away in bushland right on the very edge of the town itself.

It’s pet friendly here, so a great alternative for travellers with dogs to walk amongst the Granite Belt’s famous granite boulders.

Leyburn Heritage Trail/in /by

Known as the town of living history, Leyburn will charm you with its old time feel.

Patrick Leslie passed through this area in 1840, and this small village came to life as a resting point for the bullock teams that later followed in his footsteps. It was originally known as Leslie Crossing but its name was later changed to Canal Creek and finally Leyburn, after a town in Yorkshire, England. Many of its buildings and landmarks date back to mid to late 1800s and the town’s historians have pinpointed them with informative commemorative plaques.

To immerse yourself in all the stories Leyburn has to tell, install Southern Downs Regional Council’s free official Southern Downs & Granite Belt Visitor App on your mobile device, and tap and scroll your way to the Leyburn Heritage Trail, and let the app take you on a tour of the town.

This trail is 10 kilometres long and will take most people around 3 to 4 hours to complete on foot, depending on your walking speed. If that is too far for you to walk, you may prefer to jump in the car to look at some of the sites that are furthest from town, such as the Leyburn Cemetery and the Secret WW2 “Z” Special Unit Camp.

Jamworks Gourmet Foods/in /by

Jamworks Gourmet Foods has been creating Queenslands’ favourite condiments since 2001.

They manufacture a range of over 80 gourmet jams, relishes, chutneys, sauces and pastes, and have recently been awarded Medals in both the Australian Food Awards and the Royal Sydney.

Jamworks Gourmet Foods Café and Larder is a fully licenced café and manufacturer of artisan preserves.

They produce 70 plus products which are gluten and preservative free and are made on site using local produce where possible.

Open Wednesday to Sunday 9am – 4pm and 7 days during Queensland School Holidays.

The menu includes breakfast, lunch and light meals including their trademark scones.

Heritage Wines of Stanthorpe Cellar Door, Experiences, Antiques/in , , , /by

Sit at the 17-seat rosewood and leather table, that seated the Executive Council when Queen Victoria declared Queensland a colony in c1859! See original pictures of the government’s Executive Council. Enjoy the ambiance of tasting excellent award-winning wines, situated in a yesteryear atmosphere of collectibles and antique furniture. To complete the picture a warm, open log fire awaits, at the Cottonvale Cellar Door.

Enjoy the picturesque mountain views through the vines and pine trees, whilst indulging in award winning wines.

Three wines scored 95 points (out of 100), and this was published in The Australian Newspaper on Easter Saturday, 2020. A total of 9 wines submitted achieved the highest score in QLD and placed Heritage in the top 8% of Australia. Awards include:

Varieties include: Whites: Ansonica*, Chardonnay, Fiano*, Frizzante, Frontignac*, Marsanne*, Muscat Secco, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Savagnin* Sparkling Chardonnay, Verdelho*, Vermentino*,
Reds: Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec*, Muscat, Nero D’Avola*, Rosé Cabernet, Sagrantino*, Sangiovese*, Sparkling Shiraz, Shiraz Mourvèdre Grenache*, Shiraz Viognier*, Tempranillo*.

Heritage Estate is proud to feature in the Granite Belt’s StrangeBird Trail, representing emerging wine varieties.

Winner of Trip Advisor 2023 Travellers Choice and AGFG 2022-2024 Readers Choice Award.

Mount Colliery QCWA Hall/in /by

The Mount Colliery QCWA Hall is a concert, performance, and event venue on Githabul Country in the Southern Downs region of Queensland. It was built in 1918 as a social hub for coal miners, timber getters, and farming families.

It was the library, a picture theatre, a stage for musical productions, and a place for card evenings and dances. In more recent times, the hall has been a venue for the Festival of Small Halls and the Jumpers and Jazz Festival.

Gleneden Farm – Farm Shop & Farmyard/in , , , , /by

Gleneden Farm is a 650-acre organic working property with a farm shop and farmyard open for visitors. Just a 90 minutes’ drive south-west of Brisbane, Gleneden is nestled in a beautiful bushland setting, in the western foothills of the Great Dividing Range, in southern Queensland. Gleneden is a picturesque property with old-world style. Owned and managed by 4th generation farmers Rohan and Fiona Morris, Gleneden Farm produces organic 100% pasture-fed beef and lamb and pastured (free-range) rare breed pork.

The Farm Shop and Farmyard is open 10am – 4pm on the first weekend of each month or by prior arrangement (call ahead). The shop stocks a range of delicious , organic Gleneden Farm produce, including handcrafted soaps, preserves, and gifts made at the farm using traditional techniques and recipes.

Farm tours start at 10am. Bookings Essential. Come and meet the farmers, visit and farmyard animals, explore the farmhouse orchard, vegetable garden, and enjoy time outside in the fresh air.

Family-friendly environment catering for those with special needs and interests; free parking for cars, buses, and vans. Disabled toilet facilities onsite.

Farm and bullock tours, heritage and rare trade demonstrations, workshops, and camping sites are also available – bookings essential.

Farm Visitors are welcome to visit at other times by appointment please call and book ahead

Girraween National Park/in , /by

Huge granite boulders tower above open forests in the spectacular and popular Girraween National Park, outside Stanthorpe in southern Queensland. Campsites and options are plentiful, with several unique camping areas to choose from. Explore the park on almost 30km of walking tracks.

Stroll the 280m Wyberba Walk alongside Bald Rock Creek; capture your own snap of the famed Granite Arch; climb The Pyramid for great views over the park; or spend the day walking to granite monoliths or waterholes along the creek. Learn from displays in the visitor information building and at the day-use area.

Wildflowers in spring are a sign to behold! Gaze at changing reflections in the rock pools or go birdwatching for blue wrens, rare turquoise parrots and other forest birds. Spy bearded dragons and jacky lizards on the granite rocks, soaking up the sun. Go spotlighting at night to see ringtail possums high in the eucalypt trees. There is much to do in Girraween, and if you are lucky, you may see a wombat or hear superb lyrebirds imitating the calls of other birds.

Retro Arcade Warwick/in /by

Retro Arcade Warwick is a classic video game and pinball arcade venue. It features a wide collection of old and new machines, promising fun for players of all ages, including Queensland’s third largest lineup of pinball machines.

The venue includes a coin operated section, as well as an unlimited play section at great value, along with a snack bar and a party room for hire! The venue offers Mario Cart, air hockey, shooting games, racing games, classic arcade games and more.

Quart Pot Creek, Stanthorpe/in , /by

The pretty Quart Pot Creek meanders through granite country and natural bushland, passes through the town of Stanthorpe, and continues out through the south-west, where it meets Spring Creek to form the Severn River. Granite outcrops are evident along the watercourse – and make good spots to sit or picnic.

The creek banks have been attractively landscaped by the local Council to include five kilometres of walking and cycling tracks, linking one end of town to the Red Bridge. You’ll find tranquil picnic and barbecue areas along the way. Take time to walk alongside this beautiful creek, past water-worn granite boulders; take some bread to feed the ducks, watch for native birds, paddle at the water’s edge or just relax under the shade of a tree.

Near the visitor information centre on the creek bank is Kidspace – a brass monkey-themed playground for families and a good spot to take a break.

Donnellys Castle/in , , /by

The original bushranger hideout for ‘Thunderbolt’ who roamed the New England Tableland.

Donnelly’s Castle is a granite rock formation that you can walk between, around and over. The massive boulders are just as spectacular as some of the rock formations in Girraween National Park and is far more accessible for young adventurers.

This rock formation, which you will find a short drive out of Stanthorpe near Pozieres, was named after Ned Donnelly, an early settler of the area. Now a crown recreation reserve, the area is maintained with picnic tables and barbecues.

The site offers boulders to scramble over and hidden passageways to explore, as well as spectacular views of the surrounding area from the 200 metre walk to the top.

Kent Saddlery Australia/in /by

At their Stanthorpe store on the New England Highway, Kent Saddlery invites visitors to experience their distinctive gallery style retail area; drop in say G’day, and smell the leather.

Reminiscent of an old-time saddlery store, guests are encouraged to touch, feel, and examine these beautifully handcrafted leather products, including Kent Saddlery’s own Heritage Collection of locally designed and handmade bags, handcrafted Kent saddles, horse-related products, and an extensive range of handmade leather belts and other top-quality items.

A family-friendly environment is guaranteed; the sights and sounds of the Comet Windmill and the Outback Mural combine with friendly chooks, animals, picnic tables and leather stamping to create a relaxing space the whole family can enjoy.

Connolly Dam/in /by

Just 20 minutes from Warwick on the beautiful Southern Downs, Connolly Dam campgrounds offer a beautiful bush setting campground on the banks of Connolly Dam.

Pitch a tent, bring your swag or tow your caravan – these campgrounds cater for all. If you want to enjoy the dam itself there are multiple options available. Chase the mighty Murray cod and monster golden perch with rod and reel or even enjoy a quiet paddle in your kayak or even a refreshing swim – this site caters for everyone.

As for the campsites themselves, Connolly Dam is home to 20 unpowered grass sites. There are no designated sites – all available on a first come, first served basis.

Facilities include a toilet block with disabled facilities, hot showers and a dump point for caravans. Please note there are no pets or fires allowed.

Granite Belt Christmas Farm/in /by

Nestled in the heart of the Granite Belt wine region, South East Queensland is family owned and operated Granite Belt Christmas Farm. Renowned for bringing the ‘Christmas Spirit’ alive all year round, there are a bundle of ‘must do’s’ on the farm for the whole family.

Granite Belt Christmas Farm’s specialty is creating a family fun atmosphere where memories can be made and traditions created. Let the kids explore Santa’s animals, wander through the fields of real Christmas trees and savour the fresh smell of pine or visit the farm in harvest season and let the kids pick the perfect tree for your family festivities.

Capture the magic of Christmas through the doors of our 3 magical stores and browse the spectacular range of Christmas decorations and gifts. Taste, indulge and enjoy Mrs. Claus’ festive hand crafted sweet treats and gourmet products.

Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre/in /by

The Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre (ARHC) is solely dedicated to the spirit of rodeo and the cowboy. This quaint yet captivating museum stands as a testament to the rich history and tradition of rodeo, offering visitors a journey through time to explore the roots of this iconic Australian pastime.

Located in Warwick, QLD, ARHC is a space created in 2006, originally funded by the Australian Government through several regional development programs, the Warwick Shire Council and the Australian Professional Rodeo Association.

As one steps through the doors of the Rodeo Heritage Centre Museum, they are greeted with an ambience that resonates with the spirit of the outback. The rustic charm of the museum and its interior, adorned with vintage rodeo memorabilia and artifacts, transports visitors back to a bygone era when life on the frontier was defined by grit, determination, and a deep connection to the land.

The museum’s collection is a treasure trove of relics that chronicle the evolution of rodeo from its humble beginnings to the electrifying spectacle it is today. Visitors can marvel at an impressive array of exhibits, including antique rodeo gear, vintage photographs capturing iconic moments in rodeo history, and even authentic cowboy attire worn by legendary riders of yesteryears.

Morgan Park/in /by

Morgan Park is a major sport and recreation facility located on Old Stanthorpe Road only few minutes from Warwick town centre and houses a range of sport clubs and organisations.

Morgan Park has become well known for its international events, including the inaugural Polocrosse World Cup, the Horse Trials World Cup Qualifier, and state motor racing championships.

Morgan Park is known as the home of horse power and hosts equine events nearly every weekend including horse trials (equestrian), polocrosse, and equine driving.

The Park also home to Morgan Park Raceway which stages dirt bike, drag racing and circuit racing events.

Birdwatchers love the Morgan Park Resource Reserve – keep an eye out for more than 20 species of birds including quails, ducks, raptors, needletails, kingfishers, fairy-wrens, honeyeaters and parrots.

An events calendar and a list of spotted bird species is available from Warwick Visitor Information Centre.

Dear Vincent Wines/in /by

It’s not all about making wine. Great wine comes from exceptional fruit, exceptional fruit comes from a passion to invest back into the vineyard to ensure its productivity for generations to come.

As custodians of this small parcel of the Granite Belt since purchasing the vineyard in 2021, immense effort has gone into restoring the vineyards back to their former glory.

Contact Information

Stanthorpe Information 07 4681 2057
Warwick Information 07 4661 3122
Email us: visitor@sdrc.qld.gov.au