Overview
From national parks to boutique wineries, vineyards and breweries, Southern Queensland Country will fuel your soul as much as your taste buds.
This region is full of passionate local producers who create exceptional gourmet produce to share the full farm-to-table experience. In a celebration of their amazing food offering, taste your way around the region at the Apple and Grape Festival that’s held each March in the town of Stanthorpe. At any time of the year, visit the boutique wineries dotted throughout the scenic Granite Belt region. You’ll meet passionate winemakers along the way, all eager to share their best drops and the stories behind them.
Lace up your walking shoes and take in the stunning scenery as you explore Girraween National Park. Walk beside Bald Rock Creek, see the famed Granite Arch, and climb the Pyramid for unbeatable views and shifting colours of the national park as the sun sets behind the giant boulders.
Take a stroll to Queen Mary Falls near Killarney, accessed through the forest of Main Range National Park, where you can cool off in the misty spray of the waterfall as Spring Creek tumbles 40 metres to the valley below. Camp underneath a sea of stars at Goomburra in Main Range National Park or cool off Cascades Pool, Kauyoo Pool and Bottlebrush Pool nestled in Crows Nest National Park before visiting the historic town en route to more natural wonders like Ravensbourne National Park.
Step back in history and take the 160km scenic route from Stanthorpe to Toowoomba via Drayton, Nobby, Allora and Warwick. As the biggest town in the region, Toowoomba is bursting with colour and life, particularly in spring when the whole city comes alive for the annual Carnival of Flowers Festival.
Climate
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Summer
Dec—Feb32°C Avg. High22°C Avg. Low -
Winter
Jun—Aug23°C Avg. High12°C Avg. Low
Tips & Suggestions
- Southern Queensland Country experiences distinct seasons. Pack accordingly, considering temperatures variations, especially if you plan to explore both the highlands and lower altitude areas.
- If visiting in September, don’t miss Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers, a stunning floral festival featuring gardens, parades, and cultural events.
- Take scenic drives through the countryside, exploring the diverse landscapes. The Great Dividing Range offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- Experience a hot air balloon over the Granite Belt for a unique perspective of the landscapes. Balloon flights are often followed by a champagne breakfast.