Maleny

The delightful Sunshine Coast hinterland town of Maleny lies in picture postcard dairy country, interspersed with rainforests, high in the Blackall Range, about 30 kilometres south-west of Caloundra. The area is renowned for its natural calming environment and numerous vantage points for that memorable holiday photo. There are a myriad of sightseeing opportunities in the area, including a panoramic view of the Glass House Mountains - so named by Captain Cook who was reminded, by the sun reflecting off the rock faces, of the glasshouses back in his beloved Yorkshire. Bushwalking and bird-spotting are popular pastimes in this area, where you can also explore the walking trails through the lush rainforests of the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk is a deeply fulfilling eco-friendly journey into the beauty of nature. The 58 kilometre walk winds through the Blackall Range and traverses some of the most scenic areas of the hinterland including Maleny Forest Reserve, Kondalilla National Park and Mapleton Falls National Park. Experience a half-day stroll, a full day hike or an overnight quest. Maps are available from the Visitor Information Centres. All around Maleny arts and craft galleries abound. There is a wide choice of cafes and restaurants most featuring local and organic produce in a picturesque setting which is just a 90 kilometre drive north from Brisbane, but is 1,000 kilometres from the cares and pressures of the big smoke. Distance from Brisbane (State Capital): 90 Kilometres.