ALL of Queensland’s apple crop is grown around Stanthorpe – one million apple trees! That makes Stanthorpe Queensland’s most stunning location for viewing orchards of apple blossoms this spring!
When to See the Apple Blossoms
The end of September and early October are the best time to plan to see the apple blossoms around Stanthorpe. The peak blossom time does vary a little according to the weather, but early October is typically a reliable time to plan a trip to see them.
Other orchard blossoms, such as plum, peach and nectarines can be seen in the Granite Belt earlier in spring (appearing at the end of August and first week of September).
Pictured: Apple Blossoms on Amiens Rd, Thulimbah area
Where to Find the Blossoms
Apple orchards are easy to spot as you drive around the areas north of Stanthorpe, but here are a few tips for where to look out for them…
From the Big Apple Down Beautiful Amiens Road
To see apple orchards the best drive is along Amiens Road, in the area 20 minutes north of Stanthorpe.
It’s easy to know where to turn off the New England Highway to get to Amiens Road because you only need to look for the Big Apple! Leave time to stop in at Vincenzo’s at The Big Apple for a meal or to pick up some wine and deli produce, because this newly re-opened spot is a must-do.
Grab the mandatory pic ‘holding up’ the big apple and then head on your way down Amiens Road following the signs towards Stanthorpe Cheese. The best apple blossoms are in the few kilometres along Amiens road just after you pass the cheese factory… but who can actually drive past a cheese factory without stopping to sample the delights!
There’s plenty to see around this whole area and in fact you can do a loop along Amiens Road and end up back at Stanthorpe, travelling via Robert Channon Wines and the Granite Belt Brewery.
Please respect the farmers by not entering the orchards, but there is much to be admired from the roadsides.
Apple Blossoms & Apple Pie on the Farm!
A must-do when visiting Stanthorpe is a visit to Sutton’s Juice Factory, Cidery & Farm Cafe, where right there on the apple farm you can visit the farm cafe to taste and indulge in apple juices, ciders and what is widely known as the ‘best apple pie ever!’
View the orchard in blossom as you approach the shed, or from the picnic dining table area outside. (Sorry no access into the orchard.)
Cycle through the Orchards
Book a bicycle tour with Granite Belt Bicycles and Jon will guide you on a tour to the best spots to cycle through apple orchards on their Castles, Cabernet & Cafes Tour. It winds through many orchards and takes in The Big Apple, Stanthorpe Cheese, Castle Glen and Donnelly’s Castle. E-bike options are also available and so too is hiring your bikes and helmets for a self-guided tour.
Vineyard & Orchard Views in One
For a spot to see gorgeous vineyard views, coupled with orchard views right next door head to Summit Estate Wines, just 1km drive from Sutton’s Farm. Arriving at this popular cellar door you’ll see signs of bud burst – the new spring growth appearing on the vineyards which have been dormant through winter. Enjoy a wine tasting inside and then stroll to enjoy your favourite wine on the verandah, taking in views of the vineyard and the neighbouring orchard in bloom.
Apple Apple blossoms along New England Highway north of Stanthorpe
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