The Granite Belt in southeast Queensland, a pretty rural area located a three hour drive north of Brisbane, is the ‘Capital of Cool’ for cosy escapes. If you time it right, you might even get to see snow during your Granite Belt winter getaway as it’s not unusual for the temperature to get below zero degrees. Stanthorpe and Ballandean are at the center of the Granite Belt with a huge selection of wineries, restaurants, activities and accommodation to keep the romance flowing. From bushland hideaways to modern cottages, we have found some of the Granite Belt’s most gorgeous escapes. Even better, there is not a crocheted doily in sight.

Bridge Street Cottage, Stanthorpe

Located in the heart of Stanthorpe, Bridge Street Cottage epitomises all the requirements of a romantic escape. An open fireplace and large claw foot bath are top of the list closely followed by a king bed and modern country kitchen for cooking up some of the delicious produce gathered from around the many providores and delis in Stanthorpe. Bridge Street Cottage circa 1890 is fully renovated and includes all of the modern conveniences you need for a great stay such as a Nespresso coffee machine, full air conditioning and modern kitchen appliances. Decor is a tasteful modern country style with vintage and antique furniture throughout the house beautifully matched with modern accessories. Comfy king and single beds with stylish bed linens make for sleeping pleasure and there is a large modern bathroom complete with rain shower and claw foot bathtub. The cottage is also walking distance to all of the great dining in the Stanthorpe township so you can enjoy a few of the local wines before or with dinner.

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Girraween Environmental Lodge

Set on 400 acres of natural bushland and surrounded by Girraween National Park, Girraween Environmental Lodge has architect designed bush chalets hidden amongst the trees. Constructed from recycled timbers with a modern design, each chalet has a king size bed and wood fire for maximum romance. With a variety of walking tracks that pass kangaroos, granite boulders and billabongs, it is the perfect spot for strolling or more adventurous exploring. The lodge also has easy access to the many wineries and restaurants in and around Stanthorpe.

Briar Rose Cottages

Silky Oak Cottage, one of two cottages at Briar Rose Cottages, is a classically romantic two-story abode with a fireplace and cosy chairs downstairs and a comfy queen bed upstairs reached by a spiral staircase. There are also French doors opening onto a small private balcony and a kitchen for cooking up tasty meals. Silky Oak Cottage is located in the heart of Stanthorpe, within easy walking distance of cafes, restaurants, shops and the beautiful walkways along Quart Pot Creek. If you’re lucky, you might even find Tim Tams waiting for you in the fridge.

Harvista Granite Belt Stanthorpe

This modern and contemporary one bedroom studio is located 14 km from Stanthorpe and surrounded by bushland and the area’s distinctive granite boulders. Take a walk to explore the nearby wineries and farms or stay in and enjoy some time together as Harvista Granite Belt Stanthorpe has everything you need for a short (or longer) stay, with a fireplace, king size bed, full kitchen and BBQ on the deck

31 The Rocks

The Granite Belt has some beautiful B&Bs but if you prefer more contemporary accommodation then 31 The Rocks is for you.  Each of the five modern self-contained villas come with classy furnishings and charming rural views from the veranda which features a swanky hooded BBQ.  A light continental breakfast basket is also included. Only a short drive from Stanthorpe and close to all the great wineries and Granite Belt activities, this accommodation option is close to everything but makes you feel like you’re a world away.

Twisted Gum Winery and Cottage

With views of the winery’s surrounding vines and the bush, this 1920s cottage has been renovated and accommodates up to six people. There is a fireplace, comfy couch and enough beds for everyone plus a fully equipped country kitchen with indoor and outdoor dining. Twisted Gum Winery also hosts an impressive multicourse dinner in winter with wine matching. Perfect for food and wine lovers as you won’t need to drive home after your big night out.

‘Mossy Rock Cabin’, Stanthorpe

This modern two bedroom cottage is built high on a granite outcrop, nestled among the trees and bush only 15 minutes from Stanthorpe. With modern amenities and queen beds, Mossy Rock Cabin will have you curled up by the fire and sipping the local wines as soon as you’re back from exploring the Granite Belt An outdoor setting with swing chair and a BBQ on the deck provides a beautiful space for relaxing and dining with a fire pit on the rocks near the cabin for toasting marshmallows and star gazing when the weather is good. With a modern kitchen, lounge and bathroom you will be in country getaway heaven in no time and not wanting to leave.

Granite Belt Motel

This fully renovated 70s style motor inn is a great place to call home while exploring everything the Granite Belt has to offer. Comprising of four styles of hotel rooms you can choose from queen or king size beds with feather doonas, plus rooms have a smart TV, microwave, toaster, and the all important Nespresso coffee machine for an early morning brew. The Granite Belt Motel is located in the heart of Stanthorpe and perfect for wining and dining around the town and exploring the great shops and cafes nearby.

Disclosure: The writer is always looking for a good excuse to enjoy some good food and drink red wine in front of a fire. 

If you’re passing through Brisbane on your way to the Granite Belt and looking for some accommodation, we have reviewed The Calile, The Westin Brisbane, Hilton Brisbane, The Johnson, NEXT Hotel Brisbane, Sage Hotel James Street, Royal on the Park, Ibis Styles Elizabeth Street, W Brisbane, Sofitel Brisbane, The Inchcolm by Ovolo, Gambaro Hotel, and Pullman Brisbane Airport.