Gardners Falls, Maleny
Located high in the picturesque Blackall Range, Maleny is renowned for its lush rolling hills and numerous scenic spots to enjoy a leisurely lunch. If you need an excuse to get away, check out our hit list of Maleny must-dos and discover a world of spectacular natural wonders, sensational food, and luxurious places to stay. Get your copy of the trail map below (thanks to Trip Tick Tourism for the use of this map.)
Download the Maleny Trail Map
Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World
Meander through some of the most exquisite gardens in Queensland featuring a panorama of waterfalls, ponds and idyllic views of the Glass House Mountains at Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World. Bring a picnic to enjoy by one of the sparkling ponds, or lounge under a tree with a good book and soak up the peace and serenity. Electric golf carts are also available for hire (and can support wheelchairs).
Be sure to set aside time to visit their Farm Friends, and their aviary – where you'll have the chance to learn more about the magnificent native and exotic birds that call this place home.
Baroon Pocket Dam
Canoeing on Lake Baroon with Secrets on the Lake, Montville
Baroon Pocket Dam is a picturesque lake tucked away between Montville and Maleny. This family-friendly hotspot has an array of picnic tables, free barbecues, and playgrounds: making it the ideal spot for a picnic lunch!
In the warm summer months, take a dip in the calm waters, kayak the lake and its tributaries, or simply cast your rod and wait for the Australian Bass to bite. The shoreline is also abundant with wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos (so keep your eyes peeled). If you're looking to stretch your legs, lace up your hiking boots and make your way through open forest ridges to enjoy the beautiful views from Baroon Lookout.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is 55 acres of subtropical rainforest overlooking the Glass House Mountains. A remnant of the rainforests that once covered the Blackall Range, the Reserve is a living museum of diverse plant and animal life. There are several tranquil walking tracks, boardwalks, and viewing platforms where you can soak up the natural beauty.
Immerse yourself in a world of learning at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, and enjoy a barbecue lunch with breathtaking views of the Glass House Mountains. Be sure to listen out for the striking call of the catbird, while imagining yourself back in time as you stroll through this stunning patch of subtropical beauty. It's a wonderful place to take the kids for an adventure (or the ideal spot for a quiet, romantic stroll).
Gardners Falls
Aerial of Gardners Falls, Maleny
Looking for the ultimate waterfall content for your social media feed? The search stops here! Once you've arrived in Maleny, take a short, level walk downstream to Gardners Falls: a hidden gem in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. From there, follow the bubbling waters downstream to enjoy a freshwater swim in the largest pool underneath the Falls. These delightful waters are bounded by a grassy verge and backed by native forest, making it the ideal spot for a hinterland picnic or a post-swim snooze under a giant water gum.
As always, caution is advised while swimming at Gardners Falls. Diving into the water, or using rope swings, are not recommended.
The cheese circuit
Maleny Food Co, Credit: TEQ
With rich pastures and a healthy climate, the Sunshine Coast has been one of the country’s most renowned dairy producers since cattle were first introduced to the region. Proof of the pudding (or perhaps the custard!) is the award-winning Maleny Dairies, which has kept the flag flying with its high-quality output, and this year won an award for producing Australia's best full cream milk.
Maleny Cheese is another hotspot for dairy lovers, where you'll get to see the cheesemakers in action and enjoy tastings in the café and shop. You can also purchase outstanding hard and soft cheeses, along with products from the award-winning yoghurt range. For an extra cheesy finale, head to Maleny Food Co and indulge yourself in the fromagerie, featuring more than 200 cheeses from Australia and around the world.
Brews and views
Brouhaha Brewery, Maleny
Beer lovers will want to make a pit stop at Brouhaha Brewery for some boutique brews and views. It's a cracker of a micro-brewery featuring 12 kinds of amber goodness for your beer-drinking pleasure. There's everything from stout (try the coffee milk stout) to pale ale. Food is fresh and locally sourced and the service is super friendly.
Tip: If you'd like someone else to do the driving, jump aboard a tour with Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours.
Dining
Spicers Tamarind, Maleny
If you're looking for a premium dining experience in Maleny then look no further than The Tamarind - the fully licensed, award-winning in-house restaurant at Spicers Tamarind Retreat. Specialising in modern Asian cuisine, The Tamarind’s menu effortlessly combines umami flavours with fresh local produce to create original and innovative dishes that almost look too good to eat. If you're feeling inspired, then be sure to book yourself in for an engaging session at the cooking school, with lunch, a glass of wine, signature apron, and full recipes included.
Accommodation
Spicers Tamarind
There are no high rises to disrupt our gorgeous hinterland views. Instead, you'll find a luxurious collection of lodges, bed and breakfasts, friendly farm stays, cottages, and boutique retreats.
