Heralded in 1905 as Queensland’s official ‘health resort’, over 100 years later, visitors to the Granite Belt can still reap the rewards of its rejuvenating climate. They can also indulge in the abundance of locally grown taste sensations and relish in the natural wonders of the Girraween National Park. Sample farm-gate tastings of apples, stone fruit, honey, olives, truffles, berries, jams, chutneys and artisan cheeses. Encounter winemakers at cellar doors, keen to share their story (and a drop or two). The flavours of the Granite Belt are crafted by the lofty elevation of the region, its 200 million-year-old namesake boulders and passionate local producers. At the tip of the New England Plateau, the Granite Belt is perfect for a romantic weekend away, an indulgent food and wine soiree, or a hike to replenish the body and soul. Perhaps it’s ideal for all three?
There are numerous winery tours on offer in the Granite Belt. Jump on board, and you’ll visit a selection of local vineyards, meet the winemakers, taste the results of their hard work, and have the chance to purchase a bottle or two to take home. Look for the StrangeBird alternative varieties unique to this region; many hark back to ancient European vines. Make sure you book in advance as tours are popular and fill up fast. For those interested in brewing of a different kind, several liqueur producers and breweries around Stanthorpe are making award-winning ales, ciders, single malt whiskeys, and ginger beers.
Aside from the pleasures of food and drink, the Granite Belt has plenty to keep you busy. The Girraween National Park offers 17km of walking tracks through eucalypt forest, passing enormous Triassic boulders. Christmas Tree Farm provides year-round yuletide joy. Or immerse yourself in the maze and many cycling tours, the Stanthorpe Museum, and the Art Gallery.
If you’re keen to try a little bit of everything the Granite Belt has to offer, why not join us on our Booze and Bowls in the Granite Belt tour? We’ll be enjoying long lazy lunches, fine wines, and a few friendly rounds of bowls. If bowling's not your thing, our Wine Country Capers tour might just be for you.
The Granite Belt is centred on the rural town of Stanthorpe in Queensland’s Southern Down Region. Home to 5,500 people, Stanthorpe is roughly a three-hour drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
There are plenty of accommodation options in and around Stanthorpe catering to all budgets. You can camp, glamp, tuck in at a B&B or enjoy boutique villas. Long weekends tend to be popular in the Granite Belt, so book around them if possible.
The Granite Belt can be visited anytime throughout the year, and each season offers something pretty special. In summer, escape Queensland’s coastal humidity to pick berries and see sunflower fields in bloom. Come for the grape harvest in autumn and see falling leaves and hues of gold and burnt orange. Cosy up by the fire in winter, perhaps see a flurry of snow, and enjoy the Jumpers & Jazz Festival. Springtime visitors can appreciate apple blossoms and new-release wines, and it’s the perfect temperature for exploring the local and national parks.
No surprises here: the region derives its name from the vast veins of granite that snake through it. The soil's unique qualities are what make the Granite Belt such a fertile land for growing apples and grapes.
The Granite Belt region is renowned for its rich wine, food and produce delights. The region's focal point is the bustling town of Stanthorpe, which offers over-50s tourists everything they could want, from hiking to shopping to food and wine tours.
The best way to experience the Granite Belt is to travel on our Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Harvest Festival coach tour.
Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.
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