Armistice Way
34km via Thulimbah, Pozieres and Amiens
The Granite Belt was part of the soldier settlement scheme for returning heroes of World War I as it was considered the perfect place for small farms capable of supporting one man and his family, and the high country was considered good for health problems. The veterans named their farms, and the roads linking them, after battles in which they had fought. Armistice Way, one of Stanthorpe’s principal tourist routes, takes drivers along Amiens Road through the tiny hamlets and old railway sidings of Amiens, Messines, Bapaume, Passchendaele, Bullecourt, Pozieres and Fleurbaix. Amiens Road will also take you past some of our largest fruit and vegetable producers. Stop in at the Amiens Legacy Centre to learn about the life and times for returned soldiers in the 1920s.
Route Highlights
- At Thulimbah, stop at Suttons for a slice of their famous apple pie, take a funny photo at The Big Apple and check out the Church Cellar Door – all at the same intersection of the highway.
- Further along at Castle Glen Australia be mesmerised by the enormous array of preservative free liqueurs, beers and wines available for tasting and then stop in at Stanthorpe Cheese for an incredible Ploughman’s lunch or some cheese tasting.
- Just off Amiens Road discover our famous granite boulders and be elevated without hours of climbing at Donnelly’s Castle. It’s only a 200 metre walk to the top providing breathtaking views over the valley. Surrounded by caves, legend tells us this was a hide-out of the famous bushranger Thunderbolt! A great spot to take the kids.
- If you’re after more outdoor adventure, explore the Passchendaele State Forest Lookout while fossickers can head to Swipers Gully to try their luck. History lovers will enjoy the Amiens Legacy Centre and checking out St Denny’s Church, just down the way.
- Next stop is Robert Channon Wine, the home of Verdelho. It is the perfect place to stop for lunch as you take in the superb views from its Singing Lake Café, and enjoy some more wine savouring at nearby Ravenscroft Wines. The cooler temperament of the Granite Belt makes for a pleasant walking environment and is also what attributes to the rich flavour of the wines, due to the locally grown grapes in the vineyards that can be seen for miles along your drive.
- Not a wine lover? Never fear! Before Armistice Way is over and links into Stanthorpe, you can stop in at Granite Belt Brewery and Retreat for some unique beers, plentiful meals using local ingredients and gorgeous country cabins for an overnight stay if needed.
