Granite Ridge Wines/in /by

Granite Ridge Wines first vintage was in 1995. Since then they have been awarded trophies for Queensland’s best White and best Red wines.

Their products including dry whites, dry reds, sweet and fortified are made on sight and are available at their cellar door or by mail order or via their website.

Granite Ridge’s Fergies Hill Cottage is the perfect place to stay when you visit the Granite Belt. Close to restaurants and national parks, this delightful luxury cottage is set amongst the vines, near the winery, to entice wine lovers to help out. Fully self-contained with two queen size bedrooms and two bathrooms plus sofa bed to sleep up to six. It also has a spa, log fire, and a great view from the large deck which is perfect for enjoying the spectacular sunsets and starry nights.

Twisted Gum Wines/in /by

Twisted Gum Wines craft small quantities of premium quality single vineyard wines from their hand-tended Granite Belt vineyard. You will receive a warm welcome when you visit their stylish cellar door, located in a classic 1920s Queenslander with wrap-around verandas on three sides, with views of the vineyards and hills beyond.

The cellar door is open at weekends and also by appointment. You can experience their full-flavoured crisp white wines, a hugely popular Pink Moscato and their signature deep inky-purple red wines – you are sure to find something to excite your palate.

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.

Rabbit Hole Whisky and Cigar Bar/in , , /by

Venture down the Rabbit Hole Whisky and Cigar Bar, one of the Granite Belt’s best kept secrets! Hidden behind an old barn door on site at Balancing Heart Vineyard you’ll find yourself in an intimate setting to indulge, savour and experience the finest flavours.

Relax by the crackling fire and indulge in the whisky collection from various corners of the globe, as well as a curated array of premium Gins, Tequilas & Cigars. A cosy space featuring low light, rustic industrial fittings, leather chesterfields and natural timbers patinaed with age.

The Rabbit Hole Whisky & Cigar Bar operates on Friday & Saturday evenings during the winter season and by booking only at other times.

Located on the Granite Belt, Queensland – only three hours from Brisbane or the Gold Coast

View Wine by Sancerre Estate/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 and Stacey when you visit View Wine.

Ridgemill Estate Winery and Cellar Door/in /by

Ridgemill Estate Winery Cellar Door is open for tastings and wine purchases Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 3pm . The friendly cellar door staff will introduce you to the range of ridgemill estate wines with tasting notes on each from their dry whites and reds to their alternative varieties, sparkling and fortified wines.

The vineyard is amongst the highest altitude wineries in Australia at some 840 metres above sea level. Situated on a gently sloping, south-facing field, the rows of vines are oriented north to south giving them bright morning sunlight but the chance to cool and sweeten in the late afternoon. The granitic sandy soils together with warm summers and cool evenings provide the ideal conditions for growing premium fruit with these alternative varieties that thrive in similar conditions as the Rhone Valley wines of France and the Rioja region in Spain.

White Wines and Rose… Chardonnay, Viognier, Verdelho, Semillon, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Rose (Cabernet Sauvignon).

Red Wines… Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Mourvedre, Saperavi, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo/ Monsastrell/ Grenache.

Sparkling… ‘Eloise’ Brut Chardonnay Pinot Noir.

Fortified… Sly Dog (white sherry), Howling Dog (tawny).

Robert Channon Wines/in /by

Robert Channon Wines produces estate grown and made wines in the high, cool climate, Granite Belt. Their cellar door is open for wine tasting and sales, the Singing Lake Café serves lunches and the Swigmore Hall hosts the winery’s series of mainly classical and jazz concerts.

When you visit, you will be greeted by JS Bark, their canine receptionist, unless she is asleep. Yes, they are dog friendly.

There is plenty of outdoor space for children to run around and to say hello to their miniature horses.

As well as their Verdelho, they grow and make, fine Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Their Verdelho has been served at formal banquets for the Queen and in State and Federal parliament. Their 2009 Verdelho was selected as the Queensland Parliament’s 150th Anniversary White Wine. It is the taste of the Granite Belt.

Their wines have won many medals and trophies and their chardonnay and sparkling have both been national trophy winners.

They are proud of their wines and look forward to showing them to all of their visitors.

Cunninghams Gap and Spicers Gap, Main Range National Park/in , /by

A landscape of rugged mountains, spectacular lookouts, exhilarating walks, dappled forests and rare wildlife is waiting to be explored within this Gondwana Rainforest of Australia World Heritage Area park.

Discover walks through lush tropical rainforest, fragrant eucalypts and colourful montane heath. Rock-hop across pristine mountain streams and pause at cascading waterfalls. Visit sites and relics that hark back to harsh pioneering days.

Take in the views from spectacular lookouts dotted all over this impressive landscape. You’ll be captivated by the ancient peaks, dramatic escarpments and forest-cloaked slopes and valleys.

Relax and unwind from city life by enjoying lunch with family and friends at one of the park’s shaded picnic areas nestled in cool forest beside a clear mountain stream. Or load up your pack and explore the far-flung reaches of the park. Let your spirits soar as you experience the thrill of navigating steep climbs, rocky outcrops, dense forest and rugged cliffs to reach a secluded mountaintop camp site that is all yours.

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.

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.

Queen Mary Falls, Main Range National Park/in , /by

A landscape of rugged mountains, spectacular lookouts, exhilarating walks, dappled forests and unique wildlife is waiting to be explored in this Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area park.

Settle in for a morning cuppa or barbecue picnic lunch at the shady day-use area nestled in fragrant eucalypt forest. Set up on one of the picnic tables or spread out a picnic rug on the lush lawn beneath the trees.

After your picnic head of to explore spectacular Queen Mary Falls, where Spring Creek tumbles 40m to the valley below. Choose from the Cliff or Queen Mary Falls circuits or, if you’re keen, do both! As you’re walking, keep an eye on the canopy, you might just spot a koala snoozing in the fork of a tree.

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.

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.

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.

Thulimbah Historic Railway Siding/in , /by

This quaint railway siding has photographers stopping in their tracks, literally. The view down the railway track with rustic, character-filled buildings flanked on either side makes it a favourite with photographers.

The buildings across the tracks from the railway siding were originally cold store buildings for local apples. Today these buildings too are in a disused state and what remains has rustic beauty for photography.

The siding is no longer in use, however once a month a steam train passes this way enroute from Warwick to Stanthorpe taking tourists for a day tour with Southern Downs Steam Railway. Please be watchful for trains or maintenance on the tracks and be aware the buildings are not open for public access.

Find Thulimbah Railway Siding at the intersection of Granite Belt Drive and Amiens Road, next to The Big Apple.

Allora Regional Sports Museum/in /by

The Allora Regional Sports is rated as the best in Regional Queensland. Housing and displaying unique , rare items of Local, State , Australian and International Sporting Memorabilia . A feature is the “Hall of Fame ‘ displays of the local Sports Stars who have represented at the highest levels .

Pringle Cottage Museum Complex/in /by

Pringle Cottage Museum Complex operated by the Warwick and District Historical Society Inc. showing the history of the people, activities and buildings of the Warwick Queensland District.

It has an extensive collection of historical household and industrial items, photographs and farming machinery on display in the seven buildings on the site.

They cater for school groups and tourist coach groups by appointment.

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.

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.

Zenik Hippy Shop/in /by

The main purpose at Zenik Hippy Shop is to provide each person who walks through our 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 anyone that 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 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.

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.

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.

Alley Cat Trading/in /by

Housed in a character-filled 1880s building, Alley Cat Trading brings new life to an old general store while preserving the spirit of its history. This charming space blends old and new, offering a curated selection of gifts, vintage finds, tools, books, toys, homewares, and locally made products.

With shelves that shift and evolve, the store celebrates sustainability, storytelling, and community connection. Every corner holds the possibility of a discovery, whether it’s a practical item, a nostalgic piece, or something entirely unexpected.

Alley Cat Trading is also a licensed second-hand dealer, giving locals and travellers the opportunity to buy or sell quality used goods. Friendly service, a love of heritage, and a passion for the unique make this store a memorable stop in Warwick’s historic heart.

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 30 kilometres of walking tracks.

Stroll the 280 metre 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 centre 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.

Ballandean Pyramid/in /by

It’s certainly a surprise to encounter a giant stone pyramid south of Stanthorpe near the village of Ballandean! Built from blocks of local granite, the pyramid stands 17.5 metres in height, 30 metres square at the base and contains 7,500 tonnes of rock. It was built using an excavator and dump truck and took eight months to complete.

Why is it there? The land owner had excess granite from excavations on the property and he built it just because he could! We’re certainly glad he did, as it’s an unusual landmark and quite incredible to see sitting against the backdrop of Girraween National Park.

The pyramid can be seen through the trees along the highway south of Ballandean. To reach the pyramid for a closer look, turn off the highway (eastward towards the Ballandean Tavern) on Eukey road, then turn immediately right onto Jacobsens Road. Follow Jacobsons Road for 1.7km until you reach the giant pyramid on the right. The pyramid sits on private property, so no approaching the pyramid, however the roadside is close enough to capture a view and a photo of this impressive site.

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.

Artworks Granite Belt/in , /by

Artworks Granite Belt is an inclusive creative community hub, a place to meet, learn, create and display creativity. It is situated in the Heritage Stanthorpe Railway Station on Davadi Street.

The café and gallery (with regularly changing exhibitions) are open to the public on weekends.

The Whistlestop Heritage and Community Garden, is open to members and and visitors. The nursery has plants available to purchase.

Granite Belt Farmers Markets is open every Saturday morning at the Railway Precinct.

The Southern Downs Steam Railway visits once a month, travelling from Warwick and return, please confirm this using our website under ‘events’.

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.

Mt Marlay Lookout/in , /by

For a panoramic view over Stanthorpe, Mt Marlay’s lookout and picnic area is the spot to drive to. Located within Stanthorpe itself, the lookout is only a short yet fairly steep and winding drive from the shopping district.

There are free-mounted binoculars and picnic tables with and without shade at the lookout.

Don’t miss the short walk around the summit, which follows a narrow concreted path through the trees and offers a scenic vantage point towards the north and filtered views in every direction as you encircle the summit. (Note: the walk is not signposted from the picnic area, but follow the path to start the short circuit.)

The mountain also features four mountain biking tracks, with varying grades of difficulty from family/beginners terrain, to black diamond tracks for experienced riders.

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

Amiens Legacy Centre/in /by

A local museum. About 14 km south-west of Stanthorpe is the village of Amiens where over 100 years ago, returning soldiers from the Great War toiled to bring the Pikedale Soldier Settlement into being. The Amiens Legacy Centre can be found at 17 Goldfields Rd, Amiens. The Amiens History Association has worked tirelessly to provide this home for all the artefacts, history and residents’ stories about this unique soldier settlement. Unique, you ask? Yes, unique because this is the only one where all the villages along the connecting rail line are named after WW1 battles in which the Diggers played a pivotal role. Fleurbaix (Fromelles), Pozieres, Bullecourt, Passchendaele, Bapaume, Messines and the administrative centre at Amiens. The village names were approved by the soldiers because of the peaceful surroundings.

Visit the refurbished 1909 carriage, be amazed by the Family Memorial Stone, walk over the Bailey Bridge honouring all the engineers in all conflicts, see short video clips in the Passchendaele Shed, learn about HRH Edward, Prince of Wales’s visit in 1920, picnic at the topiary train, admire the Remembrance quilt, learn about the site from the information boards, marvel at Franco’s mural “Forging a Future after the Trenches”, see the remaining original buildings in Amiens or visit on Saturdays between 10 am and 1 pm when we have guided tours and the carriage is opened.

Stanthorpe Heritage Museum/in /by

The Award winning Stanthorpe Heritage Museum has two collections of national significance and one of state significance. Subjects include pastoral, tin mining, orcharding, military, Aboriginal, Italian, Red Cross, medical, ‘Make-do’ and social history.

The Shepherd’s Hut (1842), Gaol (1876), School Residence (1894) Ardmore House (1920) Heath House (1940) Council Chambers (1914), Telecom building are incorporated into the complex.

With 14 buildings and more than 20,000 artefacts, the collection is supported by local family histories researched during the past fifty years. These records and photographs are housed in the Jean Harslett Research Room.

Come and visit this fascinating museum and see the story of this unique area come alive! Bus groups welcome but must be booked.

The Stanthorpe and District Historical Society has operated the Stanthorpe Heritage Museum since 1970.

The collection is maintained and presented by members of the Society. All items are donated by the local community and carefully restored and/or cleaned and displayed by volunteers.

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.

Long Neck Farm/in , , /by

Long Neck Farm orders a unique cafe and gift shop with opportunities to view and interact with the farm animals.

Nestled in the Goomburra Valley section of the Main Range National Park with a very scenic drive ensuring a photo worthy experience.

Great local food, wood fired pizzas on Friday and Saturday nights, outstanding fresh coffee and award winning pies.

Sundown National Park/in , /by

Journey along back roads to the spectacular wilderness of Sundown National Park on the Queensland–New South Wales border. With its dramatic landscape of sheer-sided gorges, tree-lined ridges and peaks rising over 1000 metres above the Severn River, discover for yourself the park’s wild isolation.

Camp on a river flat and throw a line in to see if you can catch a yellow-belly or eel-tailed catfish. Wander to Permanent Waterhole for a refreshing dip, or climb the Western circuit and gaze out across the horizon.

Witness rust-red granite cliffs at Red Rock Gorge lookout track, with peregrine falcons flying overhead. Walk among box, ironbark and cypress trees in beautiful eucalypt woodland, and picturesque river red gums and river oaks growing along the water.

Challenge yourself with a half-day adventure, following the creek from Burrows Waterhole to Rats Castle or into Ooline Creek. Keep watch for brush-tailed rock-wallabies hiding among rocks near Nundubbermere Falls. Investigate centuries-old pastoral relics and abandoned mines where tin, copper and arsenic were unearthed from the 1870s.

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.

Washpool Reserve Camping Area at Lake Leslie/in /by

Just 15 minutes from Warwick on the beautiful Southern Downs, Washpool Campgrounds offer a beautiful bush-setting campground on the banks of Leslie 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 – whether the adrenalin of water skiing and jet skiing or the challenge of chasing the mighty Murray cod and monster golden perch with rod and reel or even just a quiet paddle in your kayak or even a refreshing swim – this site caters for everyone.

The high-quality all-weather boat ramp at the dam makes access to the water as simple as possible.

As for the campsites themselves, choose between powered or unpowered and the very considerate caretakers will provide fire drums to assist with your open-fire cooking needs. Washdown as well as full hot and cold showers and disabled facilities make this a very popular destination of choice for tourists to the region. Come for a day or stay for a week!

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.

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.

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.

Warwick Art Gallery/in , /by

The Warwick Art Gallery is at the forefront of cultural activities in the Southern Downs. Especially committed to community activities, the Gallery aims to identify, promote and celebrate the community’s artistic and cultural identity and support community-based festivals, exchanges and events.

In addition, the Gallery program brings to Warwick travelling exhibitions set to inspire and educate. The Gallery has two unique spaces, the traditional main gallery and the foyer space with outstanding visitor exposure and a garden view.

Check for details on current exhibitions and events at the gallery.

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.

Vintage Roads/in /by

Come and experience Vintage Roads; a treasure hunter’s delight, crafter’s paradise, and adventure for the whole family!

Explore the eclectic warehouse packed with antiques, collectables, vintage, retro and up-cycled pieces to suit all tastes and budgets.

They stock a full range of knitting, crochet, and quilting supplies as well as retro & vintage clothing and jewellery.

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.

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.

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.

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 their 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.

Contact Information

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