Hinterland Area of Queensland's Sunshine Coast
The Glass House Mountains are a 20 million year old volcanic remnant which serve as a unique feature of the Sunshine Coast's hinterland. Mount Tibrogargan is just one of the many highlights of this group of landforms all of which offer the visitor bushwalking, abseiling and mountain climbing. Wild Horse Mountain features spectacular views and a number of national parks in the area protect the unique and fragile flora and fauna found here. Sightseeing and picnics are another popular activity.
The quaint country towns of Caboulture, Beerburrum and Beerwah offer the visitor special country hospitality and plenty of accommodation in a peaceful setting. The Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park near Beerwah provides visitors with the chance to have a close encounter with several wonderful examples of Australia's fascinating and unique wildlife such as crocodiles, a tortoise, snakes, kangaroos and even a giant python!
The Landsborough Historic Museum, Farleys Gallery, Opals Down Under and the Big Kart Track also attract numerous visitors. Why not try a thrilling and awe inspiring journey in a balloon at dawn over the magnificent Glass House Mountains. A number of festivals and celebrations are held in the region also and the towns boast some fine galleries and eateries.
Buderim, Forest Glen, Palmwoods, Woombye, Nambour... This area, located just inland from the southern beaches of The Sunshine Coast, is characterized by rich orchards and terraced pineapple fields. Each town has its own individuality and special attractions.
The Buderim Festival Markets, open daily, offer a variety of fashions, arts, crafts and plenty of fine food to choose from. Picturesque Buderim Forest Park provides barbecues and walks in a rainforest setting. Historical atmosphere abounds in this lovely small country town and there are a number of superb restaurants and cafes on offer. Other attractions in the area include the Buderim Pot Shop which offers some marvelous local pottery for sale and the Buderim Tavern and Pioneer Cottage, circa 1870, which are definately a must for the visitor. Not far away are the famous Aussie World and delightful Tanawha tourist drive.
Another must for visitors to the area is the Forest Glen Deer and Wildlife Sanctuary where you can experience the unique pleasures of feeding deer and mingling with kangaroos, wombats and koalas. The sanctuary also features a wonderful nocturnal house.
Palmwoods is a pretty little Australian country village and at Wombye, the Big Pinapple is the main attraction offering a fantastic day's outing for all the family. The Macadamia Nut Factory is just one highlight of this popular attraction. Wombye also boasts the Sunshine Coast Antique Centre where you will find a large array of fine antiques and collactibles. Finally, Nambour to the north is a small but centrally located retail and service town and can be used as an ideal base for exploring this part of the hinterland. The historic Ginger Factory at Yandina, just off the Bruce highway to the north of Nambour, is a popular tourist attraction in the area.