Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND
Inland from
Nambour
, the Blackall Range forms a stunning backdrop to the Sunshine
Coast's popular beaches a short 50km away. A relaxed half- or full-day circuit drive from
the coast follows a winding road along the razorback line of the escarpment, passing
through quaint mountain villages and offering spectacular views of the coastal lowlands.
The villages (some suffering from an overdose of kitschy craft shops and Devonshire
tearooms) are worth a visit, but the real attraction is the landscape, with its lush green pas-
tures and softly folded valleys and ridges, and the waterfalls, swimming holes, rainforests
and walks in the national parks. Cosy cabins and B&Bs are popular weekend retreats, espe-
cially during winter.
Tours
Plenty of tour companies operate through the hinterland and will pick up from anywhere
along the Sunshine Coast.
Storeyline Tours
( 07-5474 1500;
www.storeylinetours.com.au
; from $25)
Runs small-group tours to the Eumundi Mar-
kets (Wednesdays and Saturdays, from $25) and various Hinterland villages.
TOUR
Boomerang Tours
( 1300 287 626)
Organises personalised tours of the Hinterland, taking in national parks, wa-
terfalls and the Eumundi Markets. Includes sausage-sizzle lunch.
TOUR
TOP OF CHAPTER
Maleny
POP 3442
Perched high in the rolling green hills of the Blackall Range, Maleny is an intriguing
melange of artists, musicians and creative souls, the ageing hippie scene, rural 'tree-
changers' and co-op ventures. Its bohemian edge underscores a thriving commercial town-
ship that has moved on from its timber and dairy past without yielding (much) to the tacky
