The Granite Belt
Stanthorpe is located south west of Brisbane and is nestled in the heart of the Granite Belt. Known as Queensland's premier wine region, it boasts more than 45 wineries, vineyards and cellar doors.
For wine and food lovers, a visit to Granite Belt Wine Country should include the Strange Bird Alternative Wine Trail and the Nude Food Trail.
Stanthorpe has the reputation as being Queensland's coolest town, with some altitudes around the region reaching 1000 metres above sea level. Frosty mornings and the odd snowfall during winter are not uncommon.
The high altitude and unique soil provide excellent growing conditions for not only grapes, but for stonefruit such as peaches, apricots and nectarines along with a variety of apples and berries. Take a look at the produce calendar to find out what's in season when you visit. The Biennial Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, held each even numbered year in February/March, celebrates the harvest of the region.
Stanthorpe is surrounded by unspoilt National Parks. Just south of Stanthorpe, Girraween National Park is quite popular. With its spectacular granite rock formations, and wildflower displays during Spring, it is a favourite park for bushwalkers. Adjacent to Girraween, is Bald Rock , Sundown and Boonoo Boonoo National Parks. Bald Rock National Park has the largest granite rock formation in the southern hemisphere, providing excellent views over the surrounding terrain. High, remote and rougn, Sundown National Park entices both self-sufficient campers and experienced bushwalkers to explore its rugged ridges and gorges. At Boonoo Boonoo National park you can view the river as it cascades down a sheer rock face to the gorge below.
The attractions of the Granite Belt have led to a growing accommodation industry. The Granite Belt now has the highest concentration of self contained cottages and bed and breakfasts in Queensland.
The Granite Belt celebrates four seasons, the most popular being Brass Monkey Season © during the winter months. This is when the temperatures drop and the fireplaces warm the body and the local wine warms the soul.
Primavera, celebrates the Granite Belt spring style with the release of new wines, wildflowers and the bud burst. For delicious stone fruit and berries summer is the best time to visit and for the beautiful golden hues a visit during autumn is a must.
For more information specifically on Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt check out the links below:
