SITE PARTNER:  

Your Guide to the Ultimate Winter Weekend

on the Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Want to experience a true winter this year? You’re in luck! Simply head two hours south west to the coldest place in the state, where the mercury usually drops below zero during winter. The Southern Downs and Granite Belt is home to Stanthorpe, Warwick and a string of friendly villages. Think local food and wine, fresh air, time together and the restorative power of nature – sound good?

Here’s how to spend 48 hours on a winter weekend escape to explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt:

Wintery Warwick

Historic Warwick, known for its roses and rodeo, features some of the state’s finest original sandstone buildings. Step back in time on the Southern Downs Steam Railway or head off on a walking tour of the majestic heritage buildings. For dinner, enjoy chatting to locals in a country pub or head to one of the new restaurants celebrating local produce like Bluebird Kitchen & Smokehouse.

Explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Road Trip Essential Stops

Say goodbye to Warwick and jump in the car for the quick 50 minute trip south to Stanthorpe, the coldest town in Queensland (it even snowed in 2015!). Break up the drive by stopping in to Stanthorpe Cheese or Sutton’s Juice Factory on the way. If you’ve got kids with you, they’ll love the Granite Belt Christmas Farm or the Granite Belt Maze.

Explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Girraween National Park and Mount Marlay

Winter is the perfect time for hiking, with crisp, cool and clear days. Nature lovers should head 30 minutes south to Girraween National Park to explore the walking tracks, granite boulders and spectacular views. The Granite Arch trail is suitable for all ages or choose the popular Pyramid climb for a challenge. Mountain bikers looking for an adrenaline rush should head to the trails at Mount Marlay, close to the Stanthorpe CBD.

Explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Wine, Dine and Unwind

The Granite Belt is Queensland’s premier wine region and is home to over 40 cellar doors. Wine lovers should let someone else do the driving and embark on an escorted vineyard tour. If you’re feeling more adventurous, bicycle tours are also available and suit all fitness levels. If you’re more interested in the grain than the grape, head to the Brass Monkey Brewhouse or the Granite Belt Brewery, which also has a restaurant onsite.

Explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Waterfall Chasing

From Stanthorpe, head one hour north east to Killarney, where you can explore the art galleries, museum and cafes in Willow St, before heading off to chase waterfalls. This scenic drive takes in Browns Falls, Daggs Falls and Queen Mary Falls. Stop at Queen Mary Falls where you can choose between a 20-minute or 40-minute walk and hand-feed the crimson rosellas across the road at Queen Mary Falls Caravan Park.

Explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Winter Events

Tie in your trip with one of these huge winter events to get the most out of your stay. From Snowflakes in Stanthorpe, to Jumpers and Jazz in July, here’s 5 winter events on the Southern Downs and Granite Belt to add to your calendar now.

Explore the Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Start planning your trip! Head to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt website for travel advice, events calendar and things to do.

Southern Downs Regional Council is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com

Top Things To Do In Brisbane This Week

Don't miss Shake & Stir's adaptation of James and the Giant Peach
Embark on an exciting journey through the past & present
The Smile Station is an interactive space for all ages to enjoy
Things are heating up at Terraces Restaurant in April
A cult classic returns to La Boite Theatre
Experience an unforgettable evening with Ella Hooper
The Queensland Choir accompanied by a live orchestra
Queensland Symphony Orchestra bring Olivia's iconic hits to life
A modern fairy tale about kindness, bravery, friendship & burgers!
EDITOR'S PICK

Brisbane's Biggest Easter Weekend

Pop on your bunny ears and head to Victoria Park for a FREE four-day Easter celebration
Brisbane's Biggest Easter Weekend
MUST DO

Easter School Holidays 2024

From Easter-themed mini golf and fun activities, to must-see shows and a dedicated kids festival, here are 20+ egg-citing things to do
Easter School Holiday Guide 2024
THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do Mar 29-Apr 1

From free outdoor Easter movies in the park, cutting edge theatre and Easter-themed mini golf to a Renaissance art immersive exhibition
This Weekend Mar 29-Apr 1
FAMILY HOLIDAY

Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Have you booked in for the school holidays yet? This family holiday resort on the Gold Coast is a fun-filled adventure park where even furry family members are welcome
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
COMING UP

What's on in April in & around Brisbane

From a mega sunflower festival & five-week-long Brisbane Comedy Festival to an Olivia Newton-John tribute concert and canine comedians, some top things to do in April in and around Brisbane
What's On in April 2024 around Brisbane
FREE

Park Play

Kids can enjoy a world of wonder and excitement at this fantastic, free holiday program nestled in the heart of Victoria Park.
Park Play
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Easter Movie Night

Enjoy an egg-cellent night out with family & friends at Victoria Park’s Easter Movie Night with 2 free movie screenings
Easter Movie Night
KIDS

Playtopia

Roma Street Parkland's newest kids event - where curiority meets fun, offering free activities for children these school holidays
Playtopia
La Boite's awe-inspiring 2024 season kicks off
CONTENT RESUMES ON SCROLL
ADVERTISEMENT