If you think you know everything there is to know about lush paddocks and charming country villages... think again. From vibrant botanical gardens through to local brews, we've compiled a fabulous list of activities to fuel your Hinterland experience.
Go chasing waterfalls
Aerial of Gardners Falls, Maleny
Our verdant mountainside is liberally sprinkled with gushing waterfalls and Insta-worthy swimming holes. Gardner’s Falls near Maleny is a particular favourite among Sunshine Coast locals for its easy access from the carpark and close proximity to town. If you're keen to work up a sweat and don't mind stairs, Kondalilla Falls is for you. Nestled amongst lush slopes, with sweeping views out across the forested valley below, Kondalilla Falls is well-worth the hike (and the icy water temperatures are sure to invigorate you!). For more inspiration, check out our waterfall guide here.
Eat all the cheese
Fromagerie, Maleny Food Co
Who doesn’t love cheese? Fortunately, there's more than one spot in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland where you can sample delicious dairy delights. From the picnic-sized club cheddar range at Maleny Cheese through to the award-winning mustard-seed cheese at Kenilworth Dairies, you'll find plenty to get the tastebuds tingling.
Take in the views
Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World, Maleny
Jump in the car and head out on a tour of our hinterland lookout spots. Spy everything from the stunning vistas of the Glass House Mountains, the iconic outline of Mt Coolum, and the sparkling panoramas of the Pacific Ocean beyond. Alternatively, enjoy the sights from Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, where the stunning views set the tone for a fun, family-friendly outing surrounded by spectacular fauna and flora.
Sample a craft brew… or two
Brouhaha Brewery, Maleny
Pouring from the sleek wall taps at Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny is an impressive line-up of brews. The core range here is complemented by seasonal beers that use local ingredients and deliciously complement the foodie delights coming from the kitchen. The best way to sample Brouhaha's range is to order a table with your mates and grab a tasting paddle to sip through the best brews.
Tackle the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk
Hinterland walking
Pull on the hiking boots and set out on an epic adventure through our pristine subtropical rainforest on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. This 58km trek can be done as a multi-day hike with hike-in campsites, or by smaller sections on a day trip. Periods of rain keep the creeks and scenic waterfalls flowing as you pass by, with plenty of quality bush-walking and moments of solitude along the way. You’ll discover a pristine environment brimming with refreshing water holes, dappled sunlight through the ancient canopy, and an abundance of birdlife.
Indulge in some fine dining
Spicers Tamarind, Maleny
At Spicers Tamarind Retreat in Maleny, you'll find The Tamarind: a cosy, open-air restaurant embraced by misty gardens and subtropical rainforest. A banquet here is like travelling through Asia in one night. Expect to enjoy treats like sticky pork belly with tamarind pepper caramel, steamed chicken dumplings, and Pandan coconut parfait. Alternatively, embrace the French touch at Spicers Clovelly Estate in Montville, where you'll be set for a feast of elegant cuisine at The Long Apron restaurant.
Head for the summit
Mt Ngungun, Glass House Mountains
Their names may be hard to pronounce but the views from the top of Mt Ngungun (one of the Glass House Mountains) will leave you speechless. The surrounding range is made of molten lava volcanic peaks that rise from the Sunshine Coast’s patchwork of farming plains: home to the Jinibara and Gubbi Gubbi people. Wild Horse Mountain is also worth checking out with its impressive 360-degree panoramic view of the Pumicestone Passage, patchwork of pine plantations, native forest, coastal suburbia and ocean expanse beyond.
Travel along the art trail
Take a trip from Montville to Maleny and discover a wealth of exceptional artists and art along the Hinterland Art Trail. Artworks you'll discover on this trail include oil and watercolour paintings, bronze, sandstone and marble sculptures, porcelain, wood, photography as well as hand-blown glass, silk and textiles. Seek inspiration for your next masterpiece here!
Road trip along the Blackall Range
Spectacular views abound on a drive through the Blackall Range.
This might just be one of the MOST scenic drives on the Sunshine Coast. Along the way, not only will you get picturesque views of the countryside and coastline, but you'll also have plenty of chances to stop off at the gorgeous villages, walking trails, and waterfalls along the way.
Pack a picnic and enjoy sunset
Picnic at Maleny Cheese, Maleny
Have we mentioned that the hinterland is pretty scenic? Stock up on supplies from local suppliers – cheese from Kenilworth Dairies or Maleny Cheese and some wine from Flame Hill Vineyard – and settle in to watch the sunset over the Glass House Mountains. Ending your day doesn’t get much better than that!
Experience a quirky festival
A trip to the hinterland wouldn’t be complete without engaging with the locals at a quirky festival. From the Australian Body Art Festival in Cooroy, to the Ukele Festival in Kenilworth and even the Goomeri Pumpkin Festival, there's always something entertaining to experience.
