It’s easy to see why the Sunshine Coast is the go-to spot for southeast Queenslanders. Perfect for a cruisy day-trip or relaxing weekend getaway, the ‘Sunny Coast’ offers an incredible mix of things to see and do.
Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is truly a destination for all. Whether it’s driving the coastal route from Caloundra to Noosa, or exploring the lush hinterland regions between Maleny and Montville, finding that little slice of holiday heaven is easy. The hard part is deciding what to do first!
Some may prefer to spend their day sun-baking on the golden shores of Mooloolaba, Coolum or Noosa, while others enjoy the cool canopy of a misty rainforest, high in the hinterland. Of course, what’s a getaway without a quaint little town or two, where the daily diversions include boutique shops and welcoming cafes and restaurants serving tasty baked goods and homemade fare.
Maleny and Montville are two of the Sunshine Coast’s most desirable hinterland hamlets. From Brisbane, these mountain top towns can be reached in about an hour when heading north on the Bruce Highway. The iconic Queensland wildlife park, Australia Zoo, is just 18km away from Maleny.
You know you’re getting close when the winding mountain drive starts to level out. Mountain View Road is the notable scenic route into Maleny, and the beautiful valley views are a local highlight. Punctuated by the rocky volcanic outcrops known as the Glass House Mountains, the valley offers the perfect introduction to the region.
In the heart of town, a stroll along Maple Street, between the roundabout and Myrtle Street, will yield numerous cafes and boutique stores, with a number of locations specialising in local cheese, honey and organic foods and beauty products.
If that’s not enough, try Montville, just a short drive away. This charming town offers plenty of European character, with a wide array of interesting shops and cafes to enjoy. Outside of Montville is the Kondalilla Falls Great Walk, one of southeast Queensland’s best walking trails. An Aboriginal word meaning ‘rushing waters’, the Skene Creek falls drop 90m into the rainforest valley below.
With so much to see and do in the Maleny and Montville region, it’s easy to work up an appetite. If you’re looking for something truly special, skip the small bites and cafes in town, and head to Spicers Clovelly Estate for a long, relaxing lunch. In fact, Spicers properties are so special, that you’ll want to spend an entire day, or a whole weekend here.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers a sophisticated country setting with lovely manicured garden views. Dine in the elegant dining room, or enjoy the atmosphere outdoors, on the undercover patio.
Read: Review on Spicers Clovelly Estate here
Executive Chef Cameron Matthews has created two award winning tasting menus – The Long Apron, a multi-course degustation (with vegetarian options available), and a seasonal a la carte menu – The Short Apron. The restaurant has two Chef Hat awards, and is ranked in the “Top 100 Restaurants in Australia” by The Australian Gourmet Traveller.
The French inspired menus feature simple, yet distinctive dishes using the freshest seafood, locally sourced meats and seasonal produce, much of it coming from their own vegetable garden and nearby farms.
If preferred, The Short Apron can even make up a picnic lunch with fresh olives, meats and cheeses for the perfect outdoor snack. Enjoy it on the picturesque property, or consider taking the picnic with you to one of the many local area attractions, such as Kondalilla Falls, or one of the nearby scenic lookouts.
For the full treatment, visitors will want to spend the night. Guests will feel right at home in one of the four luxury accommodation types – the French Cottage, the Spa Suite or Luxury Spa Suite, or the Estate Suite. Each offers modern, elegant accommodation with a simple but tasteful French touch.
There’s plenty to do on the estate property too. Laze around the large pool or stroll the beautiful country grounds. Total relaxation comes in the form of Spa Anise, where guests can enjoy a full range of massage and beauty treatments.
For a unique area attraction, foodies will find all the ingredients for a fun filled afternoon at the nearby Spicers Tamarind. A cooking class in their state-of-the-art kitchen covers various cuisines from French, Italian and Thai, with savoury and sweet classes available. Choose from the 4-hour long course, or a shorter 2-hour demonstration class, with transfers provided between the two properties.
Whether it’s for a day, or the whole weekend, Spicers Clovelly Estate is sure to be the highlight of any Sunshine Coast excursion.
Read: Chefs in the City heats up again in 2017
For more on Maleny: www.maleny.qld.au
For more on Montville: www.montvilleguide.com.au
Spicers Clovelly Estate: www.spicersretreats.com/spicers-clovelly-estate
How to get there: Spicers Clovelly Estate is located just minutes from Montville, at 68 Balmoral Road. From Brisbane and the Gold Coast, exit Bruce Highway onto Steve Irwin Way. Take Landsborough-Maleny Road to Maleny-Montville Road which becomes Balmoral Road.
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