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Saturday, October 10, 2026

The Best of Montville & Maleny: Where to Stay, Eat and Play

With rolling green hills, winding country roads and charm at every turn, Montville and Maleny have long been two of Queensland’s most beloved hinterland escapes. Recently named among Australia’s most welcoming towns, they’re having a well-deserved moment in the spotlight and for good reason. From boutique stays and incredible local dining to scenic walks, galleries and gourmet pit stops, this dreamy duo is packed with reasons to plan your next getaway. Whether you’re a long-time local or just passing through, here’s where to stay, eat, and play in Montville and Maleny.

Misty View Cottages

A Premier Destination for Couples in the Hinterland Set on 18 acres in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Misty View Cottages delivers a level of privacy and comfort that’s become increasingly rare. Just minutes from Montville village centre, the property features five bespoke cottages, designed exclusively for couples and positioned for...

Maleny Homestead

Let’s cut to the chase: Maleny has no shortage of quaint stays, but this one stands apart. Perched on rolling hills, Maleny Homestead is a restored Queenslander that blends rustic charm with modern comfort, designed for lazy mornings and lingering evenings. The main house sleeps eleven (yes, your group...

Treetops Seaview Montville

If you’ve ever dreamed of swapping city noise for birdsong and misty mountain mornings, Treetops Seaview Montville is where you need to be. Perched on the edge of an escarpment, this hideaway offers seriously impressive views that stretch all the way to the distant coastline. It's the kind of...

Lovestone Cottages Montville 

Escape to Lovestone Cottages, a romantic rainforest retreat in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Set on five acres of tranquil reserve, these beautifully renovated cottages feature spa baths, fireplaces, and stunning escarpment views—perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply switching off.

Secrets on the Lake

Stay in a luxury treehouse at Secrets on the Lake in Montville. This award-winning Sunshine Coast retreat offers romantic accommodation, rainforest dining, wedding venues, and lakeside views.

Spicers Tamarind Retreat and Spa

Spicers Tamarind Retreat and Spa is a luxurious rainforest escape just outside Maleny. Nestled on an 18-acre property next to Gardners Falls, it offers 22 rooms across 14 private villas, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The villas feature private outdoor spaces, deep garden-view bathtubs, sun-drenched...

Maleny Hotel

You don’t last in Maleny since 1908 without doing a few things right. The Maleny Hotel is one of those classic country pubs that doesn’t try to be anything it’s not. It’s a solid choice for lunch, dinner or a low-key drink and it does each one well. The bistro...

The Long Apron

Tucked beneath the jacarandas at Spicers Clovelly Estate, The Long Apron isn’t your average hinterland dining experience; it’s more like being invited into someone’s deeply personal food story. And in many ways, it is. Head Chef Geoff Abel and his team bring a modern edge to classic French bistro...

Maleny Lane (Food Alley)

Tucked away in the heart of Maleny, Maleny Lane is a hidden gem offering a vibrant taste of global cuisine. This bustling food alley, located on Maple Street, feels like a tropical retreat, with fairy lights, lush greenery and rustic food stalls creating a charming, relaxed atmosphere. The lane’s food...

The Edge Restaurant

The Edge Restaurant is Montville’s go-to when you want your eggs with a view. Sitting pretty on the escarpment, this spot serves breakfast and lunch with sweeping hinterland views and crisp mountain air. If the sun’s out, the deck is the place to be. If it’s chilly, there’s a...

Maleny Cheese Factory

Nothing says Sunshine Coast hinterland quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly aged cheddar while looking out over rolling green hills. At Maleny Cheese, you can watch the magic happen through floor-to-ceiling windows as fresh milk is turned into creamy brie, crumbly cheddar and smooth yoghurt right on...

The Tamarind

If you’ve ever rolled into Maleny and thought, “I could go a pan-Asian feast right now,” then you’ll want to steer straight to The Tamarind. Tucked behind rainforest trees on the grounds of Spicers Tamarind Retreat, this place blends Thai-style flavours with local ingredients and a touch of calm...

Maleny Food Co.

If you're cruising through Maleny and craving a spot that delivers on great food and relaxed vibes, make a stop at Maleny Food Co. Whether you're spending the day exploring the Hinterland or just need a place to refuel, this deli café offers something for everyone. The menu is a...

Monica’s Cafe

If you’re wandering along Maple Street and need a solid spot for breakfast or lunch, Monica’s Café is a quiet achiever. It’s tucked at the top of town, easy to miss if you’re not looking, but worth pulling up a chair once you find it. The upper floor is where...

Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World

Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World is a tranquil escape nestled in the heart of the Sunshine Coast hinterland. This gem is all about taking your time, soaking up the beauty of nature, and perhaps even making a few feathered friends along the way. The gardens stretch over several acres,...

Clock Shop

If you're in Montville and looking for something a bit quirky, the Cuckoo Clock Shop is the place to be. Tucked in the heart of town, this little shop is filled with charm and, of course, cuckoo clocks. From traditional German styles to more modern designs, this spot is a...

Stroll down Maple Street | Maleny

When you're in Maleny, Maple Street is where you want to be. This is the main strip, lined with local cafes, boutique stores and galleries that capture the town's quirky charm. Whether you're on the hunt for a coffee, a unique piece of art or a few treasures from...

Baroon Pocket Dam (Lake Baroon)

If you’ve made it to Montville and Maleny and haven’t detoured to Baroon Pocket Dam, you’re doing it wrong. This hidden gem is just a short drive from the village and it’s pure serenity. Think rolling hills, calm water, and grassy banks made for lazing around with a book,...

Montville’s Art Galleries

Montville is a haven for art lovers, with a vibrant community of artisans and galleries that show off the town’s creative streak. The Montville Art Gallery, set inside a character-filled 1890s Queenslander, features work from over 40 local and interstate artists, while Montville Woods Gallery highlights handcrafted timber pieces...

Obi Obi Boardwalk

Need a break from shopping, sipping or grazing your way through Maleny? The Obi Obi Boardwalk is an easy 6-kilometre loop that starts just behind the cafés on the main street. This shady creekside stroll weaves through lush greenery and past gnarled old trees that look like they’ve seen...

Gardners Falls

Gardners Falls is a picturesque freshwater swimming hole located just outside Maleny. Known for its clear, cool waters, it’s a popular spot to cool off, especially in the summer. While parking can be tricky during peak times, it’s worth the effort. The falls are split into several sections. The main...

Explore Main Street | Montville

If you’re doing Montville properly, you’ll end up on the main street. It’s where the town really shows off—lined with cottage-style shops, cafes, galleries and old-school lolly stores. Start with a flat white, then wander through boutiques stacked with handmade goods, local art and more than a few knick-knacks...

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