We set off in convoy along some local minor roads to Castle Glen which had a terrific range of liqueurs, spirits, wine and beer and then to Jersey Girls Cafe to stock up on cheeses.
Then off to Donnellys Castle so the kids could stretch their legs and burn off some energy.
Keeping an eye on the time, as we wanted to book in to our motels and be at the Balancing Heart Winery by Sunset for our "Pizza at Sunset", we bypassed Stanthorpe to visit Jamworks Gourmet Food at Glen Aplin on the other side of Stanthorpe, to stock up on jams and condiments before heading back to Stanthorpe to check in.
While booking in we decided to wait out an approaching storm. Don rang Balancing Heart who commented that it was nice and fine down there. However by the time we rocked up to Balancing Heart 45 mins later, they had had a hail storm, the power was off, and they were looking a bit shell shocked. However the wine bottles were open and wood fired pizza oven already roaring. In spite of being a bit damp outside, the place lived up to expectations - a terrific spot and terrific pizzas and wine. As dark settled in, our guest Bob who is a retired electrical contractor had a check of the circuit breakers with one of the owners and bingo - the lights popped back on - though Bob insisted that he didn't do anything. Nevertheless the owners were suitably impressed!
The balancing heart I assume!
The retreating storm was spectacular.
Even the bugs were pretty.
The next day - the weather was superb.
We travelled down to Wallangarra station for breakfast - but in spite of a booking, the place had a sign out that the cafe was closed for that day - "sorry for the inconvenience!". So a quick turn around and we went back for a lovely breakfast at St Judes cafe at Ballandean. We next visited the Washpool Skin Wellness centre in Ballandean, then Heavenly Chocolates at Wyberba. The gardens at Heavenly Chocolates are as much a drawcard as their chocolates. We then went to the day visitor area at Girraween National Park and did the Granite Arch walk.
After the leg stretch we visited Masons winery for wine and fudge, then some headed straight off for home and a few visited Suttons again for a quick bite on the way home.
A weekend well spent!