Road Trip to Stanthorpe: Exploring the Sights Along the Way

If you're looking for a weekend road trip to take in Queensland, consider hitting the road from Brisbane City to Stanthorpe. This small city, known for its wineries and national parks, sits approximately 220 kilometers southwest of Brisbane. While you can drive straight to Stanthorpe, there are several different routes that you can take, each offering different sights to see along the way. Depending on the route you choose, expect the drive to last between 2.5 to 4 hours.

The Direct Route - A Quick and Easy Drive

The quickest way to get to Stanthorpe is to take the direct route. From Brisbane City, take the M3 freeway and then continue along the Cunningham Highway. Along the way, you'll enjoy the views of the Great Dividing Range, the longest mountain range in Australia. The drive along this route takes approximately 2.5 hours, covering a total distance of 220 kilometers.

Scenic Route 1 - Embrace the Country Life

If you're up for a scenic drive, take Scenic Route 1. This option takes longer than the direct route, but it's well worth it if you want to explore the countryside. The drive will take you past farmland and historic towns, such as Ipswich and Boonah. There are plenty of spots to pull over to take photos and enjoy some snacks. This route covers a total distance of 220 kilometers and takes approximately 3 hours.

Scenic Route 2 - National Park Adventure

For a real nature lover, choose Scenic Route 2. This route takes you past several national parks, including Main Range National Park and Girraween National Park. You'll get to see Australia's flora and fauna up close, including rare birds, kangaroos, and wallabies. Keep your camera handy to snap some pictures of the local wildlife. This route covers a total distance of 240 kilometers and takes approximately 4 hours.

Recommendation Along the Way - Warwick

A great spot on any route to Stanthorpe is Warwick, a historic town that dates back to the 1800s. Known for its sandstone buildings and colonial architecture, Warwick is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. While you're there, take a stroll through the Central Park, a green oasis in the middle of town, and check out the famous Rose Gardens.

Recommendation Upon Arrival - Stanthorpe Wineries

Upon arriving in Stanthorpe, take some time to explore the wineries. There are over 50 vineyards in the area, offering delicious tastings and tours. Granite Belt Brewery is a popular brewery that offers tastings of their craft beers while The Bramble Patch serves up delicious homemade jams and preserves.

Recommendation for a Side Trip - Tenterfield

If you have the time, consider taking a side trip to Tenterfield. This small town sits on the edge of the New South Wales border and has a rich history. You can visit the Sir Henry Parkes School of Arts Museum, which documents the life of Sir Henry Parkes, known as the father of the Australian federation. You can also explore Bald Rock National Park, which features some of the most stunning rock formations in the region.

In conclusion, there are many ways to travel from Brisbane City to Stanthorpe, and each route offers its own set of sights and experiences. Make the most of your trip and stop along the way to explore the towns and nature in the region.