Hit the road to see some of the lush greenness of the Noosa Hinterland and a myriad of interesting little country towns along the way.
A drive through the beautiful Noosa countryside isn’t complete without spending time at some of the delightful villages. From delicious cafes to local markets and galleries to natural wonders, each village has something special to offer.
The Noosa Hinterland is just a 20-30-minute drive from Noosa Heads and extends from Doonan, just 10 minutes from Noosaville, through to Eumundi, Cooroy, Pomona, Kin Kin and Cooran. The green, rolling valleys are dotted with cafes, galleries, farm gates, day spas, historic pubs and boutique vineyards, and the ever-changing landscape with stunning mountain-top vistas and walking and bike trails invites exploration.
Here’s what you’ll experience at each little country town along the way:
Doonan
Just out of Noosaville, stop at Doonan which is bordered by Tewantin National Park and the beautiful, reflective waters of Lake Weyba – perfect for drifting along in a kayak and ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Eumundi
Renowned for its amazing art galleries, pubs, cafes, boutique shops and the world-famous Original Eumundi Markets, that take place every Wednesday and Saturday. No matter what day you visit Eumundi, spend time strolling along historic Memorial Drive under the shade of the magnificent memorial fig trees, visit art galleries or book a Brewery Tasting Tour.
Cooroy
This historic town is a busy creative centre with plenty to see and do. You can spend hours here enjoying country hospitality at a cafe, restaurant or club, and browse the diverse range of shops, from fashion and homewares to gifts, books, antiques and second-hand bargains. The restored Butter Factory Arts Centre in the historic Cooroy Butter Factory showcases local and national artists and is part of the Cooroy Mill Place Precinct, a community and tourism hub featuring a state-of-the-art library and an interpretive walk through restored boilers and kilns.
Lake MacDonald
Just a few minutes from the town of Cooroy beautiful Lake Macdonald is home to a wide range of wildlife. It is the place to catch freshwater fish, to birdwatch, canoe or take a stroll, and the lake is bordered by Noosa’s Botanic Gardens brimming with native species and providing the perfect spot for a picnic. There is also an amphitheatre in the gardens which is a magnificent location for concerts and entertainment.
Pomono
Pomona, located at the foot of Mt Cooroora where you can follow the footsteps of competitors in the gruelling King of the Mountain race for incredible panoramic views. Pick up a map at the Pomona Visitor Information Centre and take the Pomona Heritage Walk – an easy wander past historic buildings, and enjoy the unique shops or stop for a coffee break. The historic Majestic Theatre at Pomona is also worth checking out as the oldest continuously running silent movie cinema in the world, that has been restored by the community.
Cooran
This pretty town is surrounded by a lush valley, walking tracks and swimming holes. The Cooran Tablelands Lookout offers magnificent coastal views.
Kin Kin
A small town renowned for its great food, art and scenery. Visit a friendly country pub or step out on the Noosa Trail Network, a series of tracks and trails over mixed terrain for walkers, and horse and mountain bike riders that starts in Kin Kin.
Noosa Heads is 47 kilometres north of Maroochydore, so pack a picnic lunch and some cold drinks and enjoy a full day exploring the ever-changing landscape of the Noosa Hinterland.
Discover more of the Sunshine Coast on a scenic day trip. M1 Resort in Maroochydore offers a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments perfect for groups of friends travelling together. Book your Maroochydore Sunshine Coast accommodation today. BOOK NOW
