How do I book seats together with friends?

Email events@downsexplorer.org.au with all names and the tour date; they will do their best to seat you together.

Are meals included in the tour?

Yes, a morning tea and a two-course lunch are included as part of the regional bus tour segment.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?

The train has ramps for access, but passengers must be able to manage one step and walk a few paces; please advise in advance for assistance.

Are drinks available on the train?

Snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages can be purchased from the onboard cafe carriage.

What happens if the festival is cancelled?

Tours may change without compensation due to unforeseen events like fire bans or mechanical issues; however, the organizers will notify you promptly.

Can I bring my own alcohol?

No external alcohol is permitted on the train; however, a variety of drinks can be purchased onboard.

Experience the Apple & Grape Festival on a Scenic Heritage Train from Warwick to Stanthorpe | Sightseeing Tour | Guided Tour

Immerse yourself in one of Queensland’s most charming regional celebrations with the Warwick to Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Festival & High Country Tour. Departing from Warwick Railway Station in southeastern Queensland, this 11.5-hour journey combines a nostalgic heritage train ride, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes, making it a standout adventure for travelers seeking an authentic taste of the Granite Belt and Darling Downs.

The day begins as the Downs Explorer heritage train whistles through the rolling countryside, traveling the historic southern rail line from Warwick. Guests glide past quaint towns like Silverwood, Dalveen, and The Summit—the highest Queensland Rail station—offering sweeping views of farmland, granite formations, and native bushland. The gentle rhythms of the train invite moments to breathe in scenic open spaces and appreciate the region’s rural charm.

Arriving in Stanthorpe, the heart of the Granite Belt wine and apple-growing district, you’ll be welcomed with morning tea before exploring the lively Stanthorpe markets right at the station. Here, local vendors showcase fresh produce, crafts, and regional specialties, setting the tone for the day’s festival energy.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Apple & Grape Festival parade—a colorful procession celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage with floats, dancers, and community groups. This tradition attracts visitors from across Queensland every year, blending festivity with genuine local pride.

A fully hosted regional bus tour introduces you to Granite Belt highlights, including vineyards, orchards, and scenic lookouts. Pausing for a two-course lunch, the experience indulges your palate with fresh, seasonal flavors sourced from the surrounding farms and wineries.

With free time afterwards, you’ll have the chance to stroll Stanthorpe’s charming streets, visit galleries, or sample more local delights before boarding the train back to Warwick. This comprehensive tour caters to all ages with accessible ramps and onboard amenities, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

What sets this adventure apart is its seamless fusion of heritage rail travel and one of Australia’s most unique rural festivals. The rich landscapes of the Darling Downs and Granite Belt provide a stunning backdrop to cultural festivities that celebrate harvest and community connection.

Whether you’re a festival enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, this trip offers a rare window into Queensland’s inland treasures that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism. With limited seats and all-inclusive hospitality, it’s an experience that invites you to savor the atmosphere, flavors, and stories of regional Australia in one unforgettable journey.