Escape in nature with Queensland’s best hinterland holidays

Gold Coast Hinterland | Sunshine Coast Hinterland | Noosa Hinterland | Moreton Bay Hinterland

While the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast are awash with bright lights and world-renowned beaches, just out of sight is the surrounding hinterland, where picturesque country towns greet wonder-filled national parks.

When the cooler months hit, there’s no better time to explore the luscious foliage of these natural wonderlands. Whether you want to get to know the green behind the gold of the Gold Coast Hinterland, uncover secret Sunshine Coast Hinterland spots, explore postcard-perfect hinterland towns in the Noosa Hinterland, or day trip to Brisbane's Moreton Bay Hinterland, we've got you covered on where to see, play, and stay.

Escape to the Gold Coast Hinterland

Within a half-hour (or less) drive from the skyscrapers looking down on the white sand of Surfers Paradise, you’ll find the Gold Coast Hinterland – and plenty of scenic accommodation to choose from.

This is a mecca for outdoors-lovers. A haven for bushwalking, waterfalls, swimming holes and more must-see natural attractions.

Intrigued? Add these Gold Coast Hinterland villages to your itinerary:

Say hello to arguably the most famous resident, Tamborine Mountain. This is the most popular of the towns in the region where suave accommodation is in no short supply – check out Hampton Estate Wines or Cedar Creek Lodges. Spend your days exploring neighbouring waterfalls and hiking trails, like Cedar Creek Falls and Witches Falls, which are conveniently close to a lauded vineyard of the same name. For more inspiration, here’s how to spend 48 hours in Tamborine Mountain.

Nearby, nestled in the foothills of Lamington National Park is the village of Canungra, home to O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards where you’re welcome to drop by and sample local goods at its award-winning cellar door and vintage restaurant, or enjoy a picnic with the alpacas.

Many visitors also stop in at Canungra on the way to the family-run and family-adored O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, full of outdoor activities and accommodation options that range from camping to luxurious lodges with views stretching over the valley. While in Canungra, here’s how to explore Lamington National Park.

Beechmont and Currumbin Valley

Beechmont boasts its own charm, including the luxurious Beechmont Estate and resident eatery The Paddock. Keep going and high above sea level (800 metres to be exact) among the sub-tropical rainforest of Lamington National Park is Queensland hinterland town Binna Burra. The natural wonders here are best explored on foot, with walking tracks for all hiking levels. For a big walk, join a guided tour along the renowned Border Track (there’s a one-way bus transfer from Binna Burra Lodge). Make the most of the sweeping views around here with a stay at self-contained Tiny Wild Houses, or award-winning Sky Lodges.

Uncover the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

An hour and a half north of Brisbane is where you’ll discover the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. This district is particularly rich in country towns, each boasting vibrant dining scenes, markets, antique stores and accommodation. Keep an eye out for the following stand-outs:

Montville

Montville is home to many art galleries and antique shops (the clock shop is a favourite) - but it’s not only window shopping you can do here. On the cusp of Kondalilla National Park there are many bush walks and rock pools to enjoy, including popular Kondalilla Falls. Afterwards, sit back and relax at Edge Cafe in town, or indulge in dinner at The Long Apron restaurant at Spicers Clovelly Estate.

For more ideas, here are 10 memorable things to do in Montville.

Maleny

For the food-focused, there’s the more gastronomic-inclined Maleny, a picturesque Queensland hinterland town tucked away in the Blackall Range. You won’t go hungry here – drop by Shotgun Espresso for great coffee and brunch, Brouhaha Brewery for pub grub and beer, and finish at Maleny Cheese or Maleny Dairies for edible souvenirs. You could always pick up some goodies along the way to picnic at Maleny Botanic Garden. 

Staying a while? Discover how to spend a weekend in Maleny.

Mapleton

Grab your walking shoes before you head for Mapleton, a hiker’s wonderland. Before you embark to Mapleton Falls National Park, fuel yourself with coffee and treats at Sweet and Flour Bakery Cafe, or a farm-to-table lunch at Mapleton Public House. Not sure where to stay? Gracie Cottage is a quaint (and historic) option on the edge of town.

Get to know the Noosa Hinterland

Beyond Noosa's coastline is a delightful hinterland dotted with charming towns. Stretching from Doonan to Eumundi, and north through the townships of Kin Kin, Pomona, Cooran and Cooroy, the Noosa Hinterland offers a scenic escape packed with mountain views, boutique vineyards, historic pubs, galleries, and cosy cottages you’ll never want to check out of.

Embrace your inner foodie with this road trip through Noosa and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Boreen Point

Perched on the edge of the immense Lake Cootharaba is Boreen Point, where you can spend your days swimming and sailing the lake, and evenings pulling up a pew at the historic local - Apollonian Hotel where pub grub, memorabilia and craft beers await you.

Boreen Point is also the gateway to the Noosa Everglades. a spectacular network of pristine waterways and wetlands connecting the Northern Noosa River system. Join Everglades Eco Safari on the ultimate day trip, where you can choose to kick back with a river cruise or get adventurous on a guided canoe tour. Kanu Kapers also offers guided kayak excursions through this UNESCO biosphere.

Day trip to the Moreton Bay Hinterland

Want to get away from the city hustle and bustle but haven't got time for a big weekend away? Journey north of Brisbane towards Moreton Bay's hinterland for the ultimate day trip destination.