Stanthorpe via Gibraltar National Park

Gibraltar NP

From Hat Head we headed north and up the Gibraltar Range. Boundary Falls Campsite is lovely, large sites, each one with its own table and campfire, and fire wood is provided. There is no water, power or Internet, but there is a drop toilet.

Prior to going we had checked the forecast, it was to be >1mm of rain each day. Sadly, that was not the case; it rained constantly day and night, so we left after 2 nights. We were told it’s lovely in summer, cool with a short walk to a swimming hole. Also there are lots of long walks which look good, so perhaps we will come back another time, in summer.

Glen Innes

We stopped at Glen Innes to have lunch and dump the toilet (at a very fancy dump point). Found a great little book store and coffee shop, too.

Stanthorpe

We have never stayed in Stanthorpe, just passed through. So this time we decided to explore the area.

Caravan Park

We stayed at Top of the Town Tourist Park. Each night we lit the fire in the communal fire pit. Such a great way to meet other travellers and share stories.

Also gave Tim time to investigate the leaky hot water system.

Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cidery & Cafe

The BEST apple pie I have EVER had.

Conrad Gin Distillery

if you only get to visit two places in Stanthorpe, then this is number two after Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cidery and Cafe, and they are close to each other. The owners and master distillers, Debra and William Spence are so passionate about what they make, and a tasting is like being at a magic show, amazing, as well as the gin being super delicious. They make their gin from unwanted grapes from the vineyards in the area, and they make all their own botanicals. Check out their website Conrad Gin Distillery . The name Conrad is after Debra’s great great grandfather who fought and died in France at the Battle of the Somme in WW1.

Ballandean Eastate.

Since 1932, the Puglisi family has been making wine on their family estate, Ballandean Estate. The estate is home to some of Australia’s oldest Shiraz vines, and rarest wine varietals. Their lunch platters are amazing and they serve wine tastings with your lunch.