As long term locals we can give you the best advice about how to spend your time when visiting the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland has so much to offer from spending time in nature, to exploring some of the small towns, enjoying food and wine or just relaxing with a view.
I. Explore Mary Cairncross Scenic reserve
One of our favourite spots to visit is Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. It is only a 7 minute drive from Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny. The reserve provides views of the Glasshouse Mountains from the viewing platform above the cafe. Enjoy our wheelchair accessible Glider Gallery walk through the forest to the second level of the Rainforest Discovery Centre. Families will enjoy a day in the forest on the stroller friendly walking tracks.
There are plenty of picnic tables, BBQs and playground for the kids. While at the Reserve you might like to enjoy kicking a ball around in the open parkland, or relax on a blanket on the grass. The Park is a great place to start your exploration of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
2. Discover Montville
A short drive along the range will bring you to the small village of Montville. Where you will find a blend of English, Tudor and Irish cottages. And a range of artisan shops and a fabulous view of the Sunshine Coast.
A walk through Montville will have you tasting fudge, enjoying a coffee with a view, browsing a range of clothing stores, tempted to buy some local art or leather work. Afterwards stop for a pint at the Montville Bar and Grill.
It is very easy to spend a couple of relaxing hours enjoying the village of Montville.
3. Take a walk in Kondalilla National Park
After enjoying lunch at Montville you might enjoy a rainforest walk at Kondalilla National Park. During the wet season you can find one of the spectacular waterfalls at Kondalilla National park. This park offers a great walk to get your heart rate up. The walk to the top of the falls, the Picnic Creek circuit, is 2.4km. Allow 45 minutes as the steps on your return are steep. The 4.6km Kondalilla Falls circuit descends to the valley below with natural pools and lush vegetation. Allow 2 hours return as the return track is strenuous. The walk and park is not suitable for wheelchairs.
Part of the Great Hinterland Walk passes through Kondalilla, there are opportunities to do shorter day walks along this track. If you are interested in doing any or all of the Great Hinterland Walk, the staff at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny can help with drop off or pick up.
4. Investigate Maleny
One of the great things about staying at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny is that you can investigate Maleny without getting in the car, check out how close we are to town.
Maleny’s main street has a shop to interest everyone. From looking for specialty gifts at Giddy and Grace or browsing any of the three bookshops in town. To admiring the large range of fabric, soft furnishings and clothing at Sapling Textiles. Taking home something from David Linton Furniture and Timber works, or reminiscing about your favorite band while looking at vinyl at Groovy Records.
When you get tired of shopping stop at any of the cafes in town for a pick me up coffee, cake or more substantial meal. Then let your feet guide you back to your little oasis at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny.
5. Cool down in one of the Hinterland waterways
During the summer months you might want to cool down in one of the creeks or waterholes in the Hinterland. The closest to Maleny is Gardners Falls, where you can dip your toe in the crisp clear water of Obi creek as it cascades over the rocks, or be more adventurous and jump into the waterhole on the rope swing.
Driving towards Kenilworth, Little Yabba is another great spot to cool down and enjoy a picnic on the grassy verge. If you have a vehicle with higher clearance venture to Booloumba Creek known for its clear water, swimming spots and rainforest. While at Booloumba creek you might decide to do moderate to the Strangler Cairn, made by world renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy.
Ask us for our other secret swimming spots.
6. Have some family fun at Aussie World
Travelling with kids and looking for a fun way to spend the day, come down off the mountain and enjoy some time at Aussie World Theme park, only 26 km from Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny. The park has a range of rides for big kids and small, and is open Wednesday to Sunday. The admission price includes all rides and attractions.
There are food options available within the Park or you can eat at the Banana Bender Pub right next door.
Check out the family midweek packages on offer at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny that include entrance to Aussie World.
7. Take a scenic drive
From Maleny drive inland to the town of Kenilworth enjoying the rural vistas as you pass through the settlements of Witta and Conondale. Once you get to Kenilworth taste the creamy delights at the Kenilworth Dairies, challenge yourself to pick your favorite donut at Kenilworth bakery, let the kids play in the Kenilworth Town Park and if you haven’t packed a picnic enjoy lunch at one of the cafes or the pub.
You can now decide to return the same way or head up the Obi Rd to Mapleton and drive back along the Range to Maleny stopping for a cold drink and view at the Mapleton Pub. A great way to spend a day and see some of the inland area of the Sunshine Coast.
8. Visit a local brewery or winery
Within walking distance of Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny iis Brouhaha Brewpub, perfect for those who enjoy craft beer. Great selection of bespoke craft beer on tap with new brews regularly added to their menu. Complement your beer with one of their pizzas or other food options, while enjoying the hinterland views.
If wine is more your style you can visit Flame Hill winery and cellar door, just 3 minutes from the village of Montville. Lunch is available Wednesday to Sunday. Flame Hill farm and kitchen garden produces their own grass-fed Angus beef and much of the herbs and vegetables served in our award-winning restaurant.
Only a short walk from Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny you can visit Spill wine in town. There you will be able to select from a wide range of speciality wines, either purchase and taste on site or bring it back to your balcony retreat.
9. Experience Fine Dining
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland has a number of fine dining options, here are our top four situated on the Range.
The Long Apron at Montville provides guests with a taste of Provincial France on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Diners have the choice between an a la carte or tasting menu experience. Open for lunch Friday and Saturday, and Dinner Monday through to Saturday.
The Tamarind Restaurant Maleny offers contemporary food with an asian twist. When dining here you have the option of a 3 course al a carte or a 5 course tasting menu, regardless of your choice you will have a wonderful culinary experience. The Tamarind also offers French, Italian and Asian cooking classes on a monthly rotation.
The Terrace Seafood at Maleny has been a key feature on the Sunshine Coast dining scene for over 20 years luring diners with their combination of magnificence coastal views and seafood offerings.
Gypsy Table offers a global menu where you can feed your inner gypsy for the night, with vegetarian and vegan options. Open Thursday to Monday, providing a great option for your Monday night dinner. Gypsy Table is only a short 6 minute drive away or take advantage of our shuttle service.
10. Put your feet up on your verandah
Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing! Our verandahs at Tranquil Getaways On Obi Maleny are the perfect spot to put your feet up and watch for wildlife in the Obi Creek.
Whatever is your favourite way to relax, a visit to Sunshine Coast Hinterland is sure to please.
