Lady walking outside while eating ice cream cone with strawberries on top.

5 best ways to make the most of summer in Stanthorpe

By Phoebe from Little Grey Box

Summer’s knocking and it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and adventurous!

The Granite Belt region is the ideal playground for a weekend getaway, offering up amazing food and a bevy of fun activities sure to delight and excite.

Here are a few awesome ways to make the most of summer in Stanthorpe:

Join a Granite Belt Bicycle Tour

Make the most of spectacular summer days and tour the Granite Belt by bicycle. Join a guided tour with Granite Belt Bicycle Tours & Hire, taking in some of the region’s best spots like the incredible views and granite boulders at Donnellys Castle.

Stop for morning tea and tastings at Stanthorpe Cheese followed by a cellar door tasting at local vineyard, Summit Estate. Cycle through the quiet backstreets past apple trees in bloom while breathing in the fresh, cool air.

Avid adventurers may prefer to take a self-guided tour, perfectly accompanied by a gourmet hamper to be enjoyed at a picturesque spot.

Lady standing between two giant granite boulders.
Donnellys Castle, Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Experience strawberry picking

Spend a few hours wandering through the strawberry patch at Ashbern Farms where vibrant red strawberries hide under bright green leaves.

Pick your own as you go, keeping in mind there’s a free scoop of ice cream and bragging rights awaiting the person who finds the biggest one!

Once you’re all stocked up on delicious, sweet Stanthorpe strawberries, grab a decadent parfait, stack of waffles, scones or a delicious milkshake at the cafe.

Woman sitting between rows of strawberry plants holding a carton of freshly picked strawberries.
Ashbern Farm, Stanthorpe, Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Explore Stanthorpe Town

Explore the historic town of Stanthorpe, ducking into local boutiques to peruse arts, crafts, clothing and more.

Wander past vibrant street art murals sharing the town’s storied past and heritage-listed buildings holding tales of years gone by.

Enjoy a cold drop at the local pub and strike up a conversation with friendly locals as you go.

If you love markets be sure to plan your visit to coincide with the Market in the Mountains.

Held on the second Sunday of the month it showcases unique gifts, organic produce, incredible food, arts, crafts and more.

Walking laneway with murals on either side and vines hanging on trellises.
Stanthorpe, Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Grab breakfast at Brinx

Step inside the beautiful, welcoming surrounds of Brinx Deli & Cafe for a fabulous breakfast or brunch.

The deli is stocked high with delectable treats including provisions from local suppliers like chutneys, jams, chocolates and juice.

In the cafe, a mouth-watering menu offers up the best of the region from grazing boards and Belgian waffles to perfectly cooked eggs and your favourite smashed avocado.

Everything here is served with a warm, welcoming smile and quintessential country hospitality, including the exceptional coffee.

Cabinet filled with local cheese and other local provisions such as chutney sitting on top.
Brinx Deli & Cafe, Stanthorpe, Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Indulge in a summer BBQ

As you make your way through the region be sure to collect fresh produce and gourmet goodies for a summer BBQ.

Stop in at Sam’s Farm Fresh Fruit & Veg for crisp vegetables and flavoursome fruit.

Stock up on cheese, relish and balsamic vinegar at Stanthorpe Cheese and visit the local butcher in the heart of Stanthorpe for all your meat provisions.

Then, enjoy a glass of award-winning wine as you fire up the BBQ at Ridgemill Estate, the perfect weekend escape spot.

Here, you can dine on the very best the Granite Belt has to offer while enjoying another dazzling Stanthorpe sunset.

Lady sitting outside on a wooden picnic table under a tree.
Ridgemill Estate, Southern Downs & Granite Belt