This rich, subtropical country is embroidered with detail. West of the Bruce Highway, the Blackall Range beckons. Montville, Maleny and the other villages that perch on or behind the escarpment have wineries, art galleries and lovely boutiques.Further west, taste hand-crafted cheeses at Kenilworth before taking a leisurely trip along the Kenilworth Forest Drive or trekking into the rugged Conondales. Follow the Mary River north from its headwaters towards Gympie and you’ll find a series of magnificent state forests and townships of nostalgic rural charm. An old railway links them, and if you’re tempted by a sentimental journey, you can board the Mary Valley Rattler steam train.

Turn into Gympie town centre and you’re in the narrow, twisting streets of an old goldfield. Impressive public buildings reveal its wealthy past. Taking the trip north from Brisbane in a more exploratory mood, you can follow the Wine Trail to discover the area’s viticultural secrets, or the Gallery Trail to appreciate the inspiration that artists have found here.

Must See's & Do's

Explore the Sunshine Coast Hinterland's parks, forests and falls - Mary Cairncross Park alone boasts 50 hectares of pristine rainforest.

Visit the Ginger Factory in Yandina. Explore the factory and learn about the many uses of ginger in food, health and beauty. Take a relaxing stroll in the stunning surrounds, complete with exotic flowering ginger varieties, or hop about the historic cane train as it winds its way around the factory and gardens.

Explore the Mary Valley on horseback, foot, or by the historic Mary Valley Heritage Railway.

Montville showcases the best of the region in a one great spot, the top of the Blackall Range. The progressive township offers galleries, boutique shops, wineries, great food and above all warm hospitality.

Spend some time indulging your tastebuds - the Sunshine Coast Hinterland wine region features boutique wineries, fine a la carte restaurants, and a wealth of quality local produce.

Escape to Buderim Forest Park, a sub-tropical rainforest haven complete with lush vegetations, streams and waterfalls. Bordered by the award wining Buderim Whitehouse B&B at one end, and Harry's Restaurant at the other, this is one Park where you don't have to rough it.