You’re in for a true amazement if you’re never discovered Donnellys Castle… and let’s clear it up from the start, it’s not actually a ‘castle’. This quiet spot is a wonderland of giant granite boulders near Stanthorpe and walking amongst the boulders you can explore into cave-like entrances and narrow crevices – a hidden gem that’s fun to explore at all ages!
Donnellys Castle is famously the site used by bushranger ‘Captain Thunderbolt’ as his hideout! Thunderbolt was the longest roaming bushranger in Australian history and it’s no surprise he managed to elude authorities here, because as you wander over, under and through the network of boulders, you too will feel you’re hidden away from the world! There’s also an exciting lookout sited on the top of one of the granite outcrops.
While it’s not suitable for those with limited mobility, it’s ideal for young families to explore. Locate this free use picnic area off Amiens then Goodwin Road, 15 minutes drive north of Stanthorpe. Access this out of the way spot via Amiens Road then Goodwin Road, via a well maintained dirt section. Tip: If the family are left waiting to see a ‘castle’, don’t worry, you can view Castle Glen Winery on Amiens Road – it is an intriguing faux castle.
There’s a toilet and basic picnic tables.
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At the lookout you are treated to a giant cock and balls carved into the rocks. Throughout the cave system you are greater by a range of graffiti and culturally inappropriate images. The Kambuwal People are not shown respect with the treatment of this obviously significant site. Aboriginal history completely ignored and shameful place for Australian history.
Own or work here?