Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
This autumn, take the roads less travelled throughout our cosy countryside. Weave around the foothills of the picturesque Blackall Range, enjoy pockets of pretty golden foliage, and explore the bustling townships brimming with good food, craft beer, and boutique distilleries.
Cheers to a good time
Sunshine & Sons
Once known for being the sugar mill capital of the Sunshine Coast, Nambour has a rich history of celebrating local produce. In Nambour’s neighbouring township of Woombye, the iconic Big Pineapple precinct is home to one of Queensland's Sunshine Pantry's key producers, Sunshine & Sons, who recently took home the title of 'World's Best' in the Botanic Vodka category at the acclaimed World Vodka Awards.
The Barrel at Clouds Vineyard, Maleny
If you’re after a drink with a view, be sure to head up the range to The Barrel at Clouds Vineyard in Maleny. Shaped like a giant wine barrel, this iconic venue offers sweeping views of the Glass House Mountains. You'll find the sight of these jagged peaks, juxtaposed against the delicate beauty of the surrounding vineyard, to be a stunning set-up for an idyllic afternoon with your partner or friends.
Here you can sample a selection of wines from across South East Queensland, as well as local craft beer and ciders. Stop in for a tasting, or stay for lunch in their picturesque garden while soaking in the views.
Food, glorious food!
Mapleton Public House
With the cooler autumn temperatures taking hold, the months from March to May are a wonderful time to indulge in the diverse array of Hinterland foodie delights. Top of the list includes Mapleton Public House, which celebrates a seasonally-inspired menu and low food miles (with many ingredients sourced fresh from the Falls Farm, just 3km up the road). Other 'must-taste' stop-offs are Spill Wine Bar in Maleny for a cosy night of quality drinks, and Maleny Food Co, which, in addition to their onsite fromagerie featuring gourmet cheese from around the world, also uses local Guernsey milk and cream to create an extensive array of award-winning gelato.
Rick's Garage
Craving some comfort food? Check out Rick's Garage in Palmwoods, where you'll find plenty of vintage cars, posters, and classic diner-style fare. We're talking loaded burgers, crispy onion rings, shakes, and more.
Local tip: keep your eyes on the roadside for the numerous cute produce stalls along the way, laden with everything from seasonal pineapples, avocados, lemons, oranges and more.
Stay the night
Lovestone Cottages in Montville, Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Head up to Montville, where Lovestone Cottages bring a touch of romance to the accommodation experience. Settle back in a bubble bath with views of the tranquil forest surroundings and glimpses of the sparkling Lake Baroon below. Sustainability shines bright here, with recycling and composting playing important roles in helping to preserve the natural beauty of the land surrounding the cottages.
Starry Nights Luxury Camping
If you're keen to connect with the great outdoors, we've also got a luxe glamping retreat in the foothills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland that we know you'll love. Starry Nights Luxury Camping is the family effort of Shane and Nicole Nelson, who wanted to ensure the perfect location and environment for their eco-retreat.
Centre-stage of the property are the glamping safari-style suites. Vast in size and designed to showcase the natural setting, features include a king-size bed (with USB chargers), lounge area, kitchenette, a fireplace for cool winter nights, ensuite rain head shower and toilet, and an imposing, freestanding bathtub that makes the most of the views, while still ensuring total privacy. Prefer to sleep in a cosy cottage instead of a tent? No problem!
Seven Peaks Farm Stay
For all the nature-lovers out there, be sure to also check out the luxurious offerings from The Crocodile Hunter Lodge in Beerwah, Sixty6 Acres in Woombye, and Seven Peaks Farm Stay (also in Beerwah).
