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Queensland’s ‘top tourism town’ for 2026 is an inland gem

Updated June 17, 2026 - 9.56pm. First published at 4.29am

Queensland’s top tourism towns have been announced, and while some are familiar holiday spots you may not have heard of the big winner.

Stanthorpe on the Granite Belt was given the glittering title of Queensland’s Top Tourism Town.

Stanhope, Queensland — Stanthorpe on the Granite Belt was given the glittering title of Queensland’s Top Tourism Town. iStock

Surprisingly, it’s not on the state’s famous tropical coast, but around three and a half hours inland from Byron Bay.

With wine tasting, local food, and beautiful countryside it has got plenty on offer for a chilled-out holiday.

The area is also famous for precariously balancing prehistoric granite boulders and a cooler, temperate climate.

Settled by tin miners in the 1870s, tourism bosses say the town’s microbreweries are also worth a look.

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The biennial Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, held on even numbered years (the next will be in 2028) in March, celebrates the harvest.

It also includes a Food and Wine Fiesta and Markets in the Mountains.

Alternate years you can build a snowman at the Snowflakes in Stanthorpe Festival.

Walking trails and camping in Girraween and Balk Rock National Parks are easily accessible for outdoor types.

Airlie Beach, which is more well-known as a base to visit the Whitsundays, was named Top Small Tourism Town in the state.

Stanhope Queenland — Stanhope Heritage Museum in Queensland. iStock

In the Tiny Town Category, Toogoolawah in Somerset, 120km north-west of Brisbane scooped the gold title.

Tourism Queensland said it’s the kind of place were tourists can “step back in time”.

You can see a film at the restored cinema and visit the railway museum.

Airlie Beach, which is more well-known a base to visit the Whitsundays was named Top Small Tourism Town. iStock

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The awards aim to give a nod to destinations which give visitors the best experiences.

Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Natassia Wheeler said the winners “go above and beyond to create memorable visitor experiences and showcase the very best of Queensland.”

“From the Granite Belt to the Whitsundays and the Somerset region, our winners demonstrate the important role tourism plays in supporting local jobs, businesses and communities,” she said.

“These destinations have shown a strong commitment to welcoming visitors and delivering experiences that encourage people to stay longer, spend more and return again.”

Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland and outback town Hughenden were given silver awards.