Drive 3 hours west of Brisbane and you’ll find yourself in a place where the grass is green, the people are friendly, and the wine is very tasty. Welcome to the Granite Belt Wine Country of Queensland … the perfect destination for a weekend getaway!
There is so much to do and discover in the region that one weekend is really just an introduction. Here is a quick list of what we discovered in a mere 48 hours.
SIP
With 50+ wineries in the region you’re absolutely spoilt for choice when looking to sample some of the regionally produced wines. We particularly liked Kominos Wines at Glen Alpin and Pyramids Road Wines in Wyberba where we had the chance to sample some bottled delights plus the opportunity to meet the owners of each, who shared their whole process from vine to bottle. Plus we got to find out more about the Strange Bird wine trail (a name given to the alternative grape varieties of the region) which was fascinating.
EAT
Although there is an abundance of cellar door cafes and restaurants offering delicious lunch and dinner options, we opted instead to enjoy Saturday afternoon lunch on the lawn by the lake at the Granite Belt Brewery, with a game of bocce in between! Having heard lots of great reports about this place, it was a treat to be able to taste-test a paddle of beer to try the different brews on offer … and let it be known that our lunch of venison pie and a hotdog was the perfect complement!
PLAY
The Strawberry Fields Stanthorpe farm is a must visit if you’re in the mood for ripe and delicious strawberries! We had an absolute ball walking the rows and seeking out the reddest and plumpest berries for our own eating pleasure (they also made for a great snack on the drive back to Brisbane!). PYO prices are at market wholesale costs and you can pick your own fresh from the field 7 days a week from 9am – 4pm.
STAY
Travel about 15 minutes past Stanthorpe to Girraween Environmental Lodge, located on the border of Girraween National Park, where you can immerse in the natural bush surrounds whilst enjoying all the creature comforts of your fully self contained cabin, complete with fireplace. Kelly and resident dog Tasman are wonderful hosts and after two nights of comfortable bush living, we were feeling invigorated and refreshed.
For other great charming country accommodation and autumn getaway deals visit www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au
