Sunshine Coast Hinterland

A Guide for Visitors and Wedding Guests

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a hidden gem tucked away in the south east of Queensland.  Here, overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains and amongst rainforests is the perfect setting for a wedding, romantic getaway or just a relaxing weekend escape.

Whether you’re here to tie the knot yourself or to celebrate your friends or family getting married, you’ll find that the Sunshine Coast Hinterland has so much to offer. From breathtaking vistas and friendly communities, it’s no surprise that this hinterland area is fast becoming one of the most popular elopement locations for couples planning a destination wedding.

Location & Accessibility:
How to Get Here

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland lies just over 1 hour north of Brisbane and about 40-45 minutes inland from the beach towns of Caloundra and Mooloolaba. 

The key towns of Maleny, Montville, Mapleton, and Flaxton each offer something special - from farmers markets and galleries to waterfalls and lookouts.

Distance from Airports

• Brisbane Airport: About 90 minutes by car.
• Sunshine Coast Airport: About 40–50 minutes by car.

Public Transport Options

• Train: The nearest train station is at Landsborough, with regular Queensland Rail services connecting to Brisbane.
• Buses: From Landsborough Station, buses run to Maleny and Montville.

Taxi and Ride-Share Services

• Taxis are available from Landsborough and Sunshine Coast Airport.
• Ride-shares like Uber and DiDi also service the region, 
• Shuttle Bus - there is also a shuttle bus service connecting Brisbane Airport and onwards to Gold Coast airport operated by Con-X-ion

Things to See and Do in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Whether you're an adventurer, art lover, or foodie, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland has plenty to offer. Here are some must-see attractions and activities:

Natural Wonders

• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve: Take a rainforest walk with views overlooking the Glass House Mountains.
• Kondalilla Falls: A stunning waterfall with swimming holes, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
• Gardners Falls: Just outside Maleny, this is a peaceful picnic spot with easy water access.

Art and Culture

• Montville: Stroll through boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes.
• Mapleton: Explore its arts-and-crafts markets and discover handmade treasures.
• Maleny: Browse the town’s local produce markets and enjoy the many cafes and restaurants

Wineries and Local Produce

The region is home to award-winning wineries and delicious regional produce. Be sure to visit:

• Maleny Cheese: Sample handcrafted cheeses.
• Maleny Dairies: Enjoy a tour and taste farm-fresh milk.
• Flame Hill Vineyard: Sip wine while taking in scenic vineyard views.

Why Choose the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for Your Wedding?

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland offers a unique and romantic setting that makes it ideal for weddings.

• Natural Beauty: With rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views, the hinterland provides a dreamy backdrop for ceremonies.
• Mild Climate: The region enjoys mild weather, making it possible to host outdoor weddings year-round.
• Convenient for Guests: With nearby airports and reliable transport options, it's easy for inter-state guests to travel to and from the venue
• Perfect for Honeymoons and Guest Activities: Couples and guests can extend their stay to explore the local sights and enjoy everything the hinterland has to offer.

Planning Tips for Guests

Planning to attend a wedding or visit the hinterland? Here are some handy tips:

• Book accommodation early: Spring and autumn are popular seasons, so rooms can fill up quickly.
• Consider hiring a car: While public transport is available, having a car will make it easier to explore the region at your own pace.
• Allow extra time for sightseeing: With so much to see and do, plan to spend a few extra days in the hinterland to soak up the experience.

Finally...

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is the perfect destination for weddings, holidays, and everything in between. With its stunning scenery, charming towns, and welcoming community, the region offers something truly special.