Captivating panoramic views and countryside landscapes abound in Stanthorpe, which also has a fascinating history and flourishing arts scene. Hike in the national parks, visit the flower farms and vineyards and try the area’s outstanding wines, artisan cheeses and handmade preserves.
Things to do in Stanthorpe
Get a taste of local history at Stanthorpe Heritage Museum, which has a substantial collection of artefacts relating to the area’s farming and wine-growing industries. The Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery hosts exhibitions of contemporary paintings, ceramics, sculptures and mixed media installations with a focus on regional artists, while the Glen Aplin Art Gallery promotes emerging artists and has an interesting range of Indigenous art.
Experience the great outdoors at Broadwater State Forest, a tropical rainforest of eucalyptus and pine where you can camp, go mountain biking and swim in Broadwater Creek. Hike up to Donnelly’s Castle, a massive rock formation and series of hidden passageways, for a picnic with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. At Aloomba Lavender Farm, you can wander through fields of fragrant flowers and shop for lavender-scented soaps and essential oils distilled on site.
The Granite Belt surrounding the town is renowned for its vineyards, apple orchards and strawberry fields. Taste some of the wines grown only in this region at Old Caves Winery or Elsinore Wines. You can also stroll through the vineyards and learn about the production process or pick your own strawberries fresh from the patch at local farms.
Getting around Stanthorpe
Stanthorpe is 220 kilometres south of Brisbane, which takes a little under three hours by car. Buses also connect Brisbane to Stanthorpe three times per week. Driving is the most efficient and convenient way to get around, but there is a limited bus service that covers the CBD.