GoGet Road Trip: A Weekend Getaway in Stanthorpe QLD
A Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Weekend Away
Located in the gorgeous Granite Belt Region, just under 3 hours southwest of Brisbane CBD, Stanthorpe is your perfect weekend getaway from Brisbane.
At 800m above sea level Stanthorpe is one of Queensland’s coolest towns, and a great place to avoid sweltering summer days, making it as good for a cosy winter break as it is for a summer escape.
Here we give you a guide to some of the best things to do on a weekend getaway to Stanthorpe.
The Journey There
Stanthorpe is the perfect antidote to Brisbane city life. Think rolling hills, charming vineyards, and a sky so clear you can practically see forever. But getting there is half the fun, so book your local GoGet, grab your favourite road trip playlist or podcast, and let's hit the road!
Pit Stop 1: The Scenic Route (and a Damn Good Coffee)
Forget the boring highway, we’re taking the scenic route! Head out through Ipswich and make a detour to Lake Moogerah. This hidden gem offers stunning views and the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. And if you’re after a caffeine fix (and who isn’t?!), stop by the quaint Lake Moogerah Cafe for a coffee and a chat with the locals.
Pit Stop 2: A Walk on the Wild Side
Next up, stretch your legs with a walk through Main Range National Park and marvel at the ancient rainforest and cascading waterfalls. Feeling adventurous? Take a dip in one of the natural rock pools.
Sample Local Produce
You've arrived! Stanthorpe is a charming town with a relaxed vibe and a whole lot to offer. And a lot of what it has to offer is amazing food! The Granite Belt boasts some of Queensland’s very best local produce thanks to its rich soils and temperate climate.
Stanthorpe is Queensland’s apple country and even has its very own Big Apple (no not the New York kind)! Once you’ve had a photo with the giant apple, make sure to stop by the famous Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cider and Shed Café. Try their iconic apple pie with cider ice-cream, you won’t regret it!
Speaking of fruit, Stanthorpe is also Queensland's strawberry capital. From October to May, it’s strawberry season on the Granite Belt. Visit Ashbern Farms for the freshest strawberries. You can buy them freshly packed, or pick your own. GoGet tip: their strawberry sundaes are also not to be missed. Or check out their annual berry festival where you can celebrate all things Strawberry from tastings and cooking demonstrations and perhaps even a strawberry beer.
Visit in February and early March for the annual Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Harvest Festival, which is one of Queensland’s longest running festivals. If you’ve ever wanted to stomp some grapes, here’s your chance. Warning: it does get messy so dress appropriately.
Get in Touch With Nature at Girraween National Park
Just a half hour drive from Stanthorpe you can find the spectacular Girraween National Park. Meaning ‘place of flowers’, Girraween National Park combines prehistoric granite rocks, precariously balanced boulders, flowing streams and natural rock pools. In spring, the park comes alive with wildflowers among the granite.
To view the famous Balancing Rock, take the Pyramid Walking Track. It’s a strenuous 1.5-2-hour hike, with steep climbs near the rock summit, but don’t let that put you off. The views are worth it! Just remember to wear sunscreen and take lots of water as the walk is pretty exposed.
Explore Local Wineries
Think you need to leave Queensland to sample some delicious local vino? Think again. The Granite Belt has a wine history dating back over 150 years and is home to Queensland’s burgeoning wine scene. Specialising in Shiraz, the area also grows fabulous Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons. Make sure to visit GoGet favourite Tobin Wines and enjoy a sunset drink and grazing board at Summit Estate.
Looking for something a bit different? Try the Strange Bird Alternative Wine Trail and discover some the Granite Belt’s “strange birds” or lesser-known wine varietals. To be called alternative, a varietal must make up less than 1% of the total bearing vines in Australia. From Gracianos to Durifs, Alvarinhos to Marsannes, these can all be found right here in the Granite Belt.
If you’re after a bit of exercise between wine tastings, why not hire a bike? Arm yourself with your Strange Birds trail map and meander along quiet country roads, taking in the beautiful scenery. Fully guided adventures are also available.
Beyond the Vines
Still got time to spare? Stanthorpe has even more to offer. Explore the charming local shops and galleries, visit the Stanthorpe Heritage Museum, or take a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside. For a unique experience, head to the Granite Belt Brewery and sample some locally brewed craft beers. Just make sure to take a designated driver for your GoGet!
GoGet out there!
If you’re a GoGet member, then there’s nothing standing between you and a weekend getaway to Stanthorpe! Book a car today and hit the road. No Membership? No problem! We’ve got the perfect plan for you!
