By Kayci-Rae Lee
Southern Queensland Country is a favourite weekend getaway for couples seeking the intimacy of B&B’s, wineries and art galleries.
It’s also a great place for family holidays to soak up the sun with a wide range of activities from discovering waterfalls and nature walks, to exploring the history and culture of the area, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do with the kids.
If you’re not sure how to get there, what to do or where to eat, here’s a few tips to get you started.
Friday Night
Bring on the good times and great food at Stanthorpe RSL! The RSL combines live entertainment with delicious food every Friday night. Check out the website for what’s on and usage of their courtesy bus www.stanthorperslclub.com.au
Find accommodation at the Top of the Town Tourist Park which is located in town and close to many of Stanthorpe’s attractions. Enjoy roaming on the 20 acres of natural bushland amongst the granite boulders or take a swim in the pool before watching a flick on the outdoor cinema! Check out the range of accommodation options www.topoftown.com.au/
Saturday
Hop on your own set of wheels and explore everything the Granite Belt region has to offer with Granite Belt Bicycle Tours! From casual bike hire to half day or even full day guided tour, Granite Belt Bicycle Tours has you covered. There are even hampers to enjoy on your ride when you find that magic spot. For more information visit www.granitebeltbicycles.com.au
Get lost in the Granite Belt Maze whilst trying to search for clues to solve as many riddles as you can! The riddles are changed every month so you can enjoy this activity time and time again. Admission is $12 per adult, $10 per child (4-16 yrs) and $10 for seniors, children under 4 years old are admitted for free. All entry costs included the mazes and mini golf. Check the website for more information about opening hours and wheelchair access www.thegranitebeltmaze.com.au
Stop for lunch at The Bramble Patch Dessertery. Indulge in a delicious range of artisan preserves and desserts all made on-site in a boutique factory that showcases Granite Belt produce. Treat yourself to the “Dessert Only” menu featuring berry icecreams, sundaes, waffles, poffertjes and pies along with espresso coffee or smoothies. Everyone is welcome at The Bramble patch, even your four legged friends on a lead. For more information visit www.bramblepatch.com.au
Hop back on your bike and have an authentic harvest experience picking apples in the orchard and enjoying apple pie, ciders, juice and much more at Suttons Farm! The farm is open seven days a week and has a special sweet treats menu where you can taste their famous apple pie! Visit the website to find out about the apple picking season www.suttonsfarm.com.au
By now your tummy should be rumbling for a well-earned dinner at Aussie Beef Steakhouse! Sink your teeth into a juicy steak and enjoy the fresh flavours and local produce used to serve up the finest steak. Don’t worry if you’re not a beef eater, there are plenty of other options on the menu. The steakhouse also has a kids area. To see the menu visit www.aussiebeefsteakhouse.com.au
Sunday
Put on your hiking shoes to discover the wonders of notorious bush-ranger, Captain Thunderbolt’s hide out! Large granite boulders form two caves and it is believed that the bush-ranger Frederick Ward, aka Captain Thunderbolt, used the caves as a vantage point to plan attacks on the north and south road. For more information about trails and attractions, visit https://granitebeltwinecountry.com.au/listing-category/attractions/
If you’ve been naughty, it’s into the dog house for you! We’re off to the Lawdogs Australia Dog Show. The one hour sit down show offers a unique experience to see puppies and dogs going through their law enforcement training and demonstrating protection, detection and agility. Get up close and personal with these furry friends and learn their story. Show times are Wednesday and Saturday at 11am and 2pm. For more information for behind the scenes sessions and extras visit www.lawdogsaustralia.com.au
Jump in the car or back on your bike because Castle Glen Vineyard is calling all wine lovers! Castle Glen vineyard offers wine and boutique beer tasting of their world class brews, whilst indulging you in their rich history of being the first brewery on the Granite Belt. There is also a large area for children to run and kick a ball. For more information visit www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au
Finally, enjoy authentic Italian dining at a low cost! Anna’s Italian offers a buffet every Friday night and you can even BYO wine. The buffet costs $29.90 for adults and $14.95 for kids. To see the menu visit the website www.annas.com.au
