The Seasons of the Granite Belt

Each season brings its own beauty and charm to this wonderful region. Whether you visit in the summer, autumn, winter, or spring, you are sure to find something special that will make your trip memorable. From the stunning colours of autumn leaves to the warm and sunny summer days, and the crisp winter mornings, the Granite Belt climate is a year-round attraction that provides a variety of activities and experiences. Let's explore the different seasons of this unique Queensland region and all the wonders they have to offer!

Sublime Summer

  • During the summer months of December to February, the temperature can often reach above 30°C (86°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing the temperature higher. The humidity can also make the temperatures feel even hotter, which can be uncomfortable for some people.

  • Summer presents an exciting range of activity choices for visitors to the Granite Belt. As a summer rainfall region you are more often than not going to be greeted with green fields and vibrant vineyard canopies and inviting waterholes.

    Perhaps the big drawcard at any time of the year is the Girraween National Park with its majestic granite outcrops offering great walking tracks, picnic areas and swimming holes which summer temperatures will encourage you to enjoy. You can expect to see much wildlife and an abundance of wildflowers. The Pyramid, the Junction, Hidden River and Dr Roberts Waterhole are always a rewarding walks.

    Of course the food and wine trails are alive and active in summer. You can expect to receive a warm welcome at the 50 plus cellar doors that are to be found and many food offerings that can accompany your wine tasting experiences.

    If you are feeling chilled and simply want to relax then Rock Pool Park has its own river frontage that you can picnic beside or chill out under the Gazebo for an alfresco BBQ dinner beside a picturesque dam.

    Remember to check out the Granite Belt Visitor Information Centre to find out what seasonal events are underway.

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can help keep you cool and comfortable during the hot summer days.

    Sun protection: The sun can be quite strong in Stanthorpe during the summer, so be sure to pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin.

    Comfortable footwear: Pack a pair of comfortable sandals or sneakers for walking around town or going on hikes.

    Swimwear: If you plan to visit nearby swimming holes or go to the pool, be sure to pack your swimwear.

    Overall, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, comfortable footwear, and swimwear. It's also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater and rain gear in case of unexpected weather changes.

  • The temperature during the day usually ranges between 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), making it a perfect time to engage in outdoor activities.

    Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Stanthorpe, as the leaves on the trees turn to shades of red, gold, and brown, creating a stunning autumnal landscape. The town is also known for its apple orchards, which come to life during this season. Visitors can indulge in apple picking, cider tasting, and exploring the charming

  • Autumn in the Granite Belt is a wonderful time. The temperatures are milder, but the district is a hive of activity. Grape harvest takes place at this time of year and the colours of autumn emerge to give a dramatic yellows and red in the foliage. Girraween National Park also takes on a new look as the autumn sun reflects differently against the granite and forest. If the summer season has produced it usual rain, then the creeks and waterfalls will be flowing and pretty.

    The mild weather will doubtless encourage you to engage in a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and fishing. The call of the abundance of cellar doors and their variety of food and beverage offerings will be hard to resist along with alfresco dining in the surrounds of the vineyards.

    Coffee, premium food and local produce is always available at the numerous outlets within Stanthorpe or at the larders both north and south of the township.

    Check out the Granite Belt Visitor Information Centre to find out what seasonal events are underway.

  • Layers: As the temperature can vary quite a bit during the day, it's a good idea to bring a mix of lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove as needed. A light jacket or sweater can be useful for cooler mornings and evenings.

    Comfortable footwear: Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers if you plan to explore the town or go on hikes.

    Sun protection: Although the weather is generally mild during autumn, the sun can still be quite strong, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin.

    Light, breathable clothing: Lightweight clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen can help keep you cool during the warmer parts of the day.

    Rain gear: It can rain occasionally during autumn in Stanthorpe, so be sure to pack a rain jacket or umbrella.

Vivid Autumn

Cosy Winter

  • The temperature during the day usually ranges between 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F), making it a perfect time to cozy up with a warm drink and enjoy the winter activities.

    The countryside is also stunning during winter, with clear blue skies and crisp air making it a great time to explore the national parks, with the chance to spot winter wildlife such as echidnas and kangaroos.

    Visitors should be prepared for the cold weather during winter, with warm clothing and layers to keep comfortable during the chilly temperatures.

  • Reputed as the coolest place in a state otherwise known for its tropical climate the Granite Belt comes into its own at wintertime for Queenslanders. A Granite Belt winter offers visitors from Brisbane and other Queensland regions the opportunity to sit beside the warmth of a log fire and chill with friends and family and yes it has been known to snow in the Granite Belt in July.

    In spite of the occasional offer of snow, winter in the Granite Belt is usually a dry season with sunny but cool days and long cold nights. The days can be filled with hiking and wildlife experiences in the Girraween National Park or you can take in a guided wine tour with one of our regions wine tour specialist. For the fit and active cycling along the well graded and marked bike pathways is rewarding.

    Overall, winter in the Granite Belt is a charming and unique time to visit, with a range of winter activities to enjoy, stunning landscapes, and a community that is reputed for its welcome and hospitality. Check out the Granite Belt Visitor Information Centre to find out what seasonal events are underway.

  • Warm layers: Winter temperatures in Stanthorpe can drop significantly, so bring warm layers like sweaters, fleece jackets, and thermal underwear to keep you warm.

    Waterproof and windproof outerwear: It's a good idea to bring a waterproof and windproof jacket or coat to protect you from rain and wind.

    Comfortable footwear: Bring a pair of sturdy walking shoes or boots that can keep your feet warm and dry.

    Sun protection: Although the weather is generally cool during winter, the sun can still be quite strong, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin.

    Warm accessories: Scarves, gloves, and beanies can help keep you warm and cozy during the cold winter days.

    Pack warm and waterproof clothing items like jackets, sweaters, and boots, as well as warm accessories like scarves, gloves, and beanies. Bring light layers that can be easily added or removed, and don't forget sun protection.

Fresh Spring

  • The temperature during the day usually ranges between 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), making it a perfect time to explore the region and engage in outdoor activities.

    Spring is an ideal time to visit Stanthorpe, especially for those who enjoy nature and the outdoors. The countryside is lush and green, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. The town's gardens and parks come alive with colorful blossoms, making it a picturesque destination.

  • As the frosts of winter recede a Granite Belt spring burst with vibrant energy. Leaves return to trees and the national park come to life with rich floral offerings. Be sure to check out the Stanthorpe Rare Wildflower Consortium which each spring conducts guided walks through the regions numerous natural habitats to explore seasonal flowering. Even if you miss these hugely popular walks then take yourself and friend to the Girraween National Park and explore the wonderful array of walking tracks that will allow you to enjoy close up the huge variety of flowers, wild life and stunning landscapes of granite boulders and expansive vistas

    Visitors can indulge in a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking and the never-ending welcome from the cellar doors whose vignerons will be most happy to share their latest vintages and get your feedback.

    The region offers several festivals and annual celebrations and regular hold “markets in the mountains”. Be sure to check out the Granite Belt Visitor Information Centre to find out what seasonal events are underway.

  • As the temperature can vary quite a bit during the day, it's a good idea to bring a mix of lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove as needed. A light jacket or sweater can be useful for cooler mornings and evenings.

    Comfortable footwear: Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers if you plan to explore the town or go on hikes.

    Sun protection: Spring in Stanthorpe can be quite sunny, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin.

    Overall, aim for comfortable, breathable clothing that can be easily layered to adapt to changing weather conditions.