Stanthorpe

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. Stanthorpe has the reputation as being Queensland's coolest town, with some altitudes around the shire 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. The Biennial Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, held each even numbered year in February/March, celebrates the harvest of the district. 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 National Park 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. 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 and it 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(r) during the winter months. This is when the temperatures drop and the fireplaces warm the body and the local wine warms the soul.