Real Christmas trees and apple picking – the best unique experiences in Stanthorpe
In my opinion, Stanthorpe is completely underrated and should definitely be explored more…it’s as simple as that really. Located around 2 hours and 50 mins from Brisbane, and 3 hours from the Gold Coast, this cosy town is the perfect place for a sneaky weekend away to soak up some much-needed country air. Filled with an abundance of experiences from real Christmas tree farms and apple picking orchards to gin distilleries and wine bars housed in a heritage church, heading into the holiday season there is something for every one. Read on for our list of the best unique experiences in Stanthorpe…
1) HIKE TO BALANCING ROCK AT GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK
My friend sent me this reel over 8 months ago which featured a man hiking up to Balancing Rock and some pretty epic shots of him flying his drone around the cliff face. This reel formed the itinerary of our trip to Stanthorpe – no hangover from our antics at Josie’s Good Hospitality the night prior was going to stop us from fulfilling the prophecy of seeing the big balancing rock.
When pulling up at the pyramid trail carpark, the hike doesn’t appear to look that hectic, but upon further inspect (aka, when we were finally hiking it), we realised we were so very wrong. The incline was like no other I had ever experienced. Hot tip: make sure you sneakers have a decent amount of grip to them and stay close to the rocks as you climb up. I would also recommend doing this hike in Autumn or Spring, not peak summer, unless you want to die. The view? 100% worth it. I actually cried.
Sadly, it was too windy the day we went up to fly my drone (adding an extra couple hundred grams I didn’t need to my backpack), which means only one thing – I have to return.
The Pyramids Trail, Girraween QLD 4382
2) BUY A REAL PINE CHRISTMAS TREE
Like probably many of you reading this right now, I also had no idea this place existed. But since Christmas is approaching (fast) I figured this should be a place I highlight on the list of unique Stanthorpe experiences. I always assumed that real Christmas trees was an American thing and we couldn’t possibility have a place like that in Australia, but the Granite Belt Christmas Farm has flipped my theory on its head. The farming land, owned and operated by the Fraser family, has been bringing the spirit of Christmas alive in Stanthorpe since 2017. On the farm you’ll also find the sweetest old apple shed which has been converted into a little boutique Christmas shop for all your decor desires. Shop the products online here or stop in on your next trip to Stanthorpe.
321 Aerodrome Rd, Applethorpe QLD 4378 | Open: Monday to Saturday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (Sunday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm)
3) GIN SIPPING
Hidden between rows of grape vines and botanicals grown on site, The Ginyard is the ideal location for an afternoon tipple. Offering tasting of their premium distilled spirits including fun flavours like ‘apple & macadamia nut’ and ‘feijoa gin, it’s hard to say no. Don’t worry if you get a bit too lit on the tastings either as they also have the Gin House AirBnb on site – just don’t ask to be tucked into bed.
1747 Eukey Rd, Eukey, Queensland, Australia 4380 | Open: Saturday 11:00 to 4:30 pm (open Sundays during the winter)
Ginhouse AirBnb at the Ginyard in Stanthorpe | Credit: image supplied by The Ginyard
4) FROLICK AND PICK APPLES
I have always loved the word orchard. It just feels so whimsical and fairy-like. I often dream of doing absolutely nothing except frolicking around an apple orchard on the hunt for the juiciest, richest, red apple I can find. When I find some extra time up my sleeve to do just that, Coco’s Orchard in Stanthorpe is where I will be going. This second generation family run farm has been providing some of the freshest and crunchiest apples for over 50 years. I’d say that’s pretty iconic, and a very good reason to visit.
25742 New England Hwy Applethorpe 4380 QLD | Opening times vary
5) PARTAKE IN HOLY COMMUNION ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
It doesn’t have to be a Sunday for you to duck into church for communion. Or in this instance, multiple glasses of wine. If there was a place which actually made sense of the biblical scripture of Jesus turning water into wine then this would be it. Opening its doors in August 2024, The Church: Local Wine Project is located just outside of the Stanthorpe township, in the heart of Balladean village. Offering boutique Granite Belt wines in a lovingly restored country church and delicious bites out on the landing from The Folly Truffles food truck which samples products of the rare French Black Preigord Truffles (délicieux!). Make sure to pencil The Church in as a stop when exploring the Stanthorpe region. I almost ditched my mid-morning hike to stop in here but will have to go back soon to check it out.
12 Bents Road, Ballandean, QLD 4382 | Open 11:00 am to 5:00 pm daily
As always, stay safe + travel always,
Love Elly-Grace x
All pictures taken by Elly-Grace from Travelly Concierge on Olympus Pen EPL-7 unless otherwise specified.
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