The Stanthorpe region has a lot of interesting and quirky accommodation. If you are looking for your own private location and something a bit different, then try the converted and refurbish 100-year-old historic church renting out under the name
Mia Chiesa.
Stay in an old church in Stanthorpe
The church was originally built just outside of town in 1915, in a locale known as The Summit. Originally only seating a grand total of 10 people, this church was expanded on with a vestry added in 1926. As the community developed in the interwar years, the congregation grew, and the church became an important community hub.
It was an active church well into the 21st century, with the first wedding held in 1916 and the last one in 2005. Of course, communities change over time, and more and more people preferring to head to larger centralised churches, so the church was closed and the property put up to auction in 2018.
Rosy Chapman bought the property and spent 3 years restoring and refurbishing the property to convert it into this unique place to stay in the Granite Belt. The result is an accommodation that reflects much of the original church, while also being refitting as a comfortable place to stay.
Rosy Chapman bought and refurbished the old church to convert it into a great place to stay near Stanthorpe
The church has been fitted out with carefully selected 1950s furniture, so you have a feeling of something old, but it is also stylish and represents that modern clean look that is still often part of many people's houses today. There is a dining table that can easily seat 4 people, and a modern spacious kitchen out back.
The old church has been fitted out with 'modern comfort'
While a lot of the living spaces has been refitted, there are plenty of the original church fitting left, which have been well restored. This includes the pulpit as well as wall fittings. A piano adds the final touch to the design.
There are a lot of elements of the old church still present in Mia Chiesa
A loft bedroom has been constructed, so you end up with a combination of a cosy place to sleep and high vaulted ceilings for the dining area. The bedroom also features a stained glass window so you will be woken in the morning by colourful light streaming in to brighten your day. Don't worry, the building has a northerly aspect, so you won't be woken up too early.
The bedroom loft has a stained glass window
Of course, for a touch of class, in the modern style bathroom, there is a claw-footed bathtub that was made in England in 1915, the same year as construction on the church started. You get a combination of tradition and a touch of contemporary living.
The modern bathroom features a claw foot bath
To add to the character of the location, there are various artworks, both inside and outside, at Mia Chiesa. After all, Stanthorpe is a town full of great local artists.
There is artworks inside and outside Mia Chiesa
No matter how great the accommodation, what matters is what there is to do nearby. Luckily the Stanthorpe and Granite Belt region has plenty to see and do. There is arts and crafts shopping in town, as well as an
Art Trail,
pottery gallery and wonderful
Regional Art Gallery. There are plenty of wineries, such as
Heritage Estate, among others in the area. You can get a pub meal in town or find a cafe, like
Cafe 77, which is famous for its burgers. For the active, you can walk along
Quart Pot Creek up to historic Red Bridge near town or head up
Mount Marlay for views of the town. There is also plenty of history, including a historical walk through Stanthorpe and a museum at the
Amiens Legacy Centre and Memorial Park.
A few of the products you can pick up in Stanthorpe
Outside of town, the most famous place is Girraween National Park. This area is famous for its spectacular granite formations.
One of many formations of boulders in Girraween National Park near Stanthorpe
Mia Chiesa, is one of many great accommodation options in the Stanthorpe area. It is a great place to choose when you want something a little different. Also having the space to just sit and relax or even invite a couple of friends over, makes it a great comfortable self-contained stay.
