Southern Downs and Granite Belt

04/02/2025

🌄 Explore Sundown National Park: nature’s untamed playground 🌿✨

Looking for a wild escape? Sundown National Park in the Southern Downs & Granite Belt is a rugged paradise for 4WD adventurers and nature lovers. With its dramatic landscapes, secluded trails, and abundant wildlife, this hidden gem is perfect for those craving an off-the-beaten-path experience.

🧭 Top things to do:
🥾 Hiking – Explore trails that take you through gorges, rocky ridges, and stunning lookouts.
🎣 Fishing – Cast a line in the Severn River for a peaceful day by the water.
🚙 4WD Adventures – Tackle challenging tracks and discover remote parts of the park.
⛺ Camping – Sleep under the stars in the heart of nature’s beauty.

Whether you're chasing adventure or simply looking to disconnect and recharge, Sundown National Park offers an unforgettable escape. 🌟
🚗 Pack your gear and explore the untamed beauty of Sundown in Queensland’s Wild Country —your next adventure awaits! Note that Sundown National Park is only accessible by 4WD.

For more information and help planning your trip – click on our blog post below: https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/a-locals-guide-to-sundown-national-park/

🎥 By

01/02/2025

🍻 Cheers to the country pubs of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt! 🌿✨

There’s nothing quite like the charm of a country pub, and the Southern Downs & Granite Belt is home to some of the best. Each stop offers refreshing drinks, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making these iconic spots the perfect way to experience the heart of the region. 🍻✨

📍 Pubs to visit:
🍺 Maryvale Crown Hotel – Cozy vibes and hearty country meals.
🍺 Leyburn Royal Hotel – A historic gem with plenty of stories to tell.
🍺 Karara Tavern – A laid-back spot with local hospitality.
🍺 Sandy Creek Pub – A quirky pub with loads of character.
🍺 The Ballandean Pub – The perfect stop in wine country for a cold drink.
🍺 Killarney Hotel – A classic pub with great food and country charm.

Whether you’re exploring the countryside or looking for a place to unwind, these pubs are brimming with history, personality, and good times. 🍷🍔

Which one will you visit first? Let us know! 👇

31/01/2025

🌄 Discover Girraween National Park 🌿✨

From epic granite boulders to breathtaking hikes and serene bushland, Girraween is an adventurer's paradise. The Pyramid hike would have to be one of our most popular walks – with 360’ views from the top and incredible granite formations 🧗‍♂️💫

🎥 Thanks to paulstephen_ for the incredible video!

📍 Tag your adventure buddy below!

31/01/2025

What’s on this weekend?

Here’s your 60-second glance at events in the region!

🐂 149th Stanthorpe Agricultural Show
👻 Overnight Paranormal Investigation at the Abbey Boutique Hotel
🚂 Heritage Train Trip on the Downs Explorer
🤠 Killarney Bull Bash at Killarney Showgrounds
🏍 MiniMoto Ride Weekend at Morgan Park Raceway
🌻 Pick-Your-Own sunflowers and apples at Nicoletti Orchards
🎬 Stanthorpe Film Society - 'Love Lies Bleeding' at The Arcadia
💐 Stanthorpe Farmers Markets, Farley St Piazza
👩‍🌾 Warwick Farmers and Makers Market, Queens Park
🖼 Exhibitions at Warwick Art Gallery and Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery
🏃 Warwick parkrun and Stanthorpe parkrun events

Don't forget to tag your photos and to be seen on our socials!

30/01/2025

🚗 Explore the Highland Drive: Stanthorpe to Ballandean 🌿✨

Take the scenic route and uncover the magic of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt on the Highland Drive. Starting in Stanthorpe, this journey leads you through stunning landscapes, peaceful waterways, and world-class wineries. 🍷

📍 Highlights along the way:
🌳 Stop at The Ginyard for an unforgettable experience blending nature, creativity and local flavour.
💧 Enjoy the serenity of Storm King Dam—perfect for a picnic or a photo stop.
🍇 Travel via Eukey Road, where vineyards and charming countryside unfold before you.

This drive is a dream for nature lovers, foodies, and wine enthusiasts alike. Don’t rush it—take your time to savour the views and the flavours along the way. 🌄

🚙 Plan your journey today and soak in the beauty of the Granite Belt! For more information please visit our website and blog post:

https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/plan-your-trip/tourist-drives/highland-drive/

29/01/2025

Have you looked up at the night sky lately? 💫 ✨

The Comet C/2024 G3 has been visible in our skies for the last couple of weeks in the western sky just after dark. What a sight to see! It has been visible to the naked eye, but is becoming harder to spot!

took this incredible shot from Girraween 💫

Have you seen the comet? Let us know below 👇🏼 ☄️

28/01/2025

💘 6 Places to Fall in Love This Valentine’s Day 💘

Forget chocolates and rose petals—this year, make memories with a romantic escape to the Southern Downs & Granite Belt! 🌿🍷

Whether you’re hiking to sunrise views, sipping fine wine, or snuggling up in a luxury retreat, we’ve got the perfect spots to spark romance:

💑 Top of the Pyramid, Girraween National Park – Sunrise views worth the climb!
🍷 Winery Weekend – Sip your way through Granite Belt Wine Country.
🌌 Beneath the Stars – Ditch the screens & reconnect under the night sky.
🔥 Romantic Retreats – Fireside snuggles or a helicopter arrival at Spicers Peak Lodge? Yes, please!
🚂 Southern Downs Steam Railway's Downs Explorer – Take a nostalgic train journey through stunning countryside.
🍂 Amongst the Leaves – Plan ahead for an autumn getaway with golden hues & crunchy leaves.

Tag your Valentine & start planning! 💕👇
🔗 Read more: https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/6-places-to-fall-in-love-this-valentines-day/

24/01/2025

Calling all craft beer lovers! 🍻 The Southern Downs & Granite Belt region is home to an incredible lineup of breweries that are a must-visit for a refreshing pint and good vibes. 🍺

🌟 Top stops to check out:

📍 Psycho Suzie’s Brewing – Bold flavours and a quirky vibe make this brewery a standout. Located in the heart of Warwick, try their experimental brews and soak in the unique atmosphere!

📍 Granite Belt Brewery – Sip on handcrafted beers in a cozy, rustic setting just on the outskirts of Stanthorpe. Pair your pint with their hearty menu for the perfect match.

📍 Brass Monkey Brew House – A hidden gem located just south of Stanthorpe at Severnlea. The brew-house is known for its small-batch beers and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss their signature ales!

Each brewery offers its own distinct charm, flavours, and stories, making your beer journey through the Southern Downs & Granite Belt unforgettable. 🍻

24/01/2025

What’s on this weekend?
Here’s your 60-second glance at events in the region!

🎨 Warwick Art Gallery Art After Dark
🎤 Sunset in the Vineyard and Austen Tayshus at Seventh Wines
🚂 Heritage Train Trips with the Southern Downs Steam Railway
🚜 Allora Heritage Weekend - Celebrating 30 years!
🦀 Australia Day at the Darling Downs Hotel -A.K.A- Sandy Creek Pub
🎖 Southern Downs Regional Council Citizen of the Year Awards
🌳 Killarney Australia Day in the Park
🇦🇺 Australia Day on the Granite Belt event
🎶 Australia Day at the Ballandean Pub & Motel
🍷 Live Music Sunday Sessions in the Vines at Balancing Heart Vineyard
💐 Stanthorpe Farmers Markets, Farley St Piazza
👩‍🌾 Warwick Farmers and Makers Market, Queens Park
🖼 Exhibitions at Warwick Art Gallery and Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery
🏃 Warwick parkrun and Stanthorpe parkrun events

Don't forget to tag your photos and to be seen on our socials!

21/01/2025

🚴‍♂️ Hit the trails in the Southern Downs & Granite Belt! 🌿✨

Looking for your next adventure? The Southern Downs & Granite Belt is a mountain biking paradise, offering trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes, rugged terrains, and tranquil bushland.

🌟 Top trails to explore:

📍 Mount Marlay, Stanthorpe – A mix of beginner-friendly and advanced trails with incredible views of the Granite Belt.

📍 Girraween National Park – Pedal through granite-studded landscapes and quiet trails surrounded by nature.

📍 Killarney and surrounds – For the adventurous, these trails include beautiful mountain views, river crossings and an abundance of wildlife.

Whether you're a seasoned rider chasing adrenaline or a casual cyclist looking for a scenic escape, there's a trail for every level of experience. Don’t forget to stop by local cafes and wineries to refuel and soak in the region's charm! 🍷☕

🚵‍♀️ Pack your bike, gather your crew, and explore Queensland’s Wild Country on two wheels. Adventure awaits!

For more information and help planning your rides check out our blog post below:

https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/what-to-do/adventure-and-sports/mountain-biking/

18/01/2025

Go wild in Queensland’s Southern Downs, a region packed with adventure activities 🌿🥾🌼

From walking trails to four-wheel driving, here’s our top 5 adventure activities worth hitting the road for this summer.

🎣 Boating and Fishing
Explore the scenic waterways like the Condamine River, Leslie Dam, Connolly Dam, Glenlyon Dam and Storm King Dam for a day of boating and fishing amidst tranquil surroundings.

🚵‍♂️ Mountain Biking
Follow winding trails through shady forests, cross monolithic granite platforms, roll through magnificent gorges, or cruise along the country roads past wineries. Hit the trails at Mount Marlay in Stanthorpe, offering paths for both families and seasoned riders through diverse terrains.

🚙 Four-Wheel Driving
You will find some of the region’s best four-wheel driving in Sundown National Park, navigating rugged landscapes and embracing the wild. There are plenty of other 4WD tracks – find out via the blog post link below!

🥾 Walking Trails and Hikes
From serious granite-scaling hikes to leisurely family bushwalks in areas of outstanding natural beauty, there is a track to suit everyone in the Southern Downs. Discover a variety of tracks in Girraween National Park and Main Range National Park, suitable for all fitness levels, showcasing stunning natural beauty.

⛺ Camping and Caravanning
Unwind under the stars with camping options ranging from bush sites to waterside spots, perfect for a serene getaway.

Adventure awaits in Queensland’s Wild Country! Click the link below to read more. 🌿✨
Which activity are you excited to try? Let us know below! 👇

https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/top-5-adventure-activities-in-the-southern-downs/

Go wild in Queensland's Southern Downs and Granite Belt, a region packed with adventure activities. Here's our top five!

17/01/2025

What’s on this weekend?

Here’s your 60-second glance at events in the region!

🎨 Warwick Art Gallery - An afternoon with the artists in the SOTA Quilt Exhibition
🚂 Heritage Train Trip on the Downs Explorer
🎭 Showgirl and Rural Ambassador Masquerade Cocktail Ball
🎻 Borealis String Quartet at the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery (SOLD OUT)
💐 Stanthorpe Farmers Markets, Farley St Piazza
👩‍🌾 Warwick Farmers and Makers Market, Queens Park
🖼 Exhibitions at Warwick Art Gallery and Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery
🏃 Warwick parkrun and Stanthorpe parkrun events

Don't forget to tag your photos and to be seen on our socials!

14/01/2025

🚂 Experience the magic of the Southern Downs Steam Railway's Downs Explorer! 🌟

Step aboard the heritage Downs Explorer and be transported back in time, where the charm of vintage rail travel meets the stunning landscapes of the Southern Downs. 🌿✨

Choose your perfect adventure:
📍 Scenic rides – Journey through picturesque countryside and quaint towns, soaking in breathtaking views.
📍 Themed journeys – Delight in special events like wine and dine trips or exciting children’s activity specials.
📍 Historic charm – Travel in beautifully restored carriages, full of nostalgia and old-world elegance.

This summer (and into autumn), don’t miss the Children’s Specials, perfect for family fun! Plus, starting in February, the train will again head to Ballandean, adding even more adventure to the timetable. 🚂💨

📆 Visit their website to plan your trip, check timetables, and secure your seat for a one-of-a-kind experience!

https://downsexplorer.org.au/

12/01/2025

🌿 Explore Girraween National Park: 5 Best Walks to Discover Queensland's Hidden Gem! 🌟

If you love stunning landscapes, granite boulders, and wildflowers, Girraween National Park is a must-visit. Here are our top 5 walks to inspire your next adventure:

🏔️ The Pyramid
Challenge yourself to climb this iconic granite dome for panoramic views of Balancing Rock and the park's rugged beauty. It’s steep but SO worth it!

🌿 Granite Arch Walk
A gentle 1.6km circuit that’s perfect for families or a relaxed stroll. Walk through a natural granite arch and soak up the serene vibes.

🌾 Castle Rock Track
An incredible, be it slightly challenging, 5.2km return hike leading to breathtaking views of the park’s granite formations and surrounding bushland.

🐢 The Sphinx & Turtle Rock Walk
A 7.4km return trail that takes you past unique rock formations, including The Sphinx and Turtle Rock. A true adventure for nature lovers!

💧 Dr Roberts Waterhole Track
A short 1.2km return trail leading to a peaceful waterhole. Bring a camera to capture the reflections and wildlife!

Whether you're an avid hiker or just love a scenic stroll, Girraween National Park in Queensland’s Wild Country is a slice of paradise waiting to be explored. 🌏✨

Download the free official Southern Downs & Granite Belt Visitor App today help plan your hikes!
https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/official-visitor-app/

Which walk are you adding to your list? Let us know in the comments! 👇

09/01/2025

🎨🖼 Discover the artistic side of Warwick 🎨🖼

Start by exploring the hive of visual art and cultural activity that is the Warwick Art Gallery and then step out on a walking tour of the city’s many and varied public art installations. This is so much more than an opportunity to admire amazing artwork. It’s also a chance to learn about the thoughtfulness, resilience, pride, sophistication, culture, and creativity of the people who live here.

Download the official Southern Downs Visitor App via the link below and start planning your next Southern Downs adventure today. The Visitor App is the ultimate travel resource for the Southern Downs that helps you explore even more.

🎥 by

https://southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/official-visitor-app/

08/01/2025

🍷☀️ Summer is the perfect time to explore Queensland's Granite Belt Wine Country

Here's why:

Lush Vineyards in Full Bloom: The vines are thriving, and the lush greenery creates a stunning backdrop for your wine-tasting adventures. 🌿🍇

Seasonal Flavors: Sample crisp, refreshing whites, rosés, and sparkling wines that are perfect for warm summer days. Pair them with seasonal produce from local farms for the ultimate taste of the region. 🥂🍓

Outdoor Experiences: Soak up the sunshine with alfresco dining, picnic spots, and scenic vineyard walks. The clear blue skies and warm breezes make every moment magical. 🌞🌄

Festive Atmosphere: Many wineries host live music, food events, and tastings during summer, creating a lively and welcoming vibe. 🎶🍴

Escape the hustle and bustle, indulge your senses, and discover why the Granite Belt is a must-visit wine region this summer!

Who would you bring on a wine country adventure? Tag them below! 👇

05/01/2025

Have you explored Main Range National Park yet? 🌿🥾

Just a short drive from Brisbane (under 1.5 hours) or the Gold Coast (around 2 hours), this stunning destination is perfect for a day trip or an extended stay.

Main Range National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, is a treasure trove of natural wonders. With rugged mountains, breathtaking lookouts, and invigorating walking trails, this park offers a mix of dappled forests, rare wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscapes waiting to be discovered.

Immerse yourself in lush tropical rainforests, fragrant eucalypt woodlands, and vibrant montane heath. Hop across crystal-clear mountain streams, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and uncover relics from the region's pioneering past.

Don’t forget to pause at the spectacular lookouts scattered throughout the park, offering panoramic views of ancient peaks, dramatic escarpments, and forested valleys that will leave you in awe.

Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a serene escape into nature, Main Range National Park in Queensland’s Wild Country is the ultimate getaway. 🌿✨

03/01/2025

Seeking a fun and delicious activity these school holidays?

How about picking your own strawberries at one of our local farms.

Ashbern Farm is the perfect spot for a family adventure! 🍓✨

Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of picking your own fresh, juicy strawberries straight from the patch. It's a great way to spend time outdoors, support local farmers, and indulge in some of the tastiest produce the Granite Belt has to offer.
After you've filled your baskets, be sure to check out their delicious strawberry-inspired treats at the café – a true taste of Stanthorpe! 🍰🍓

Tag someone who’d love to go strawberry picking with you at Ashbern Farms 👇