With its attractive streets, arty ‘vibe’, and stunning surroundings, Maleny in the hinterland of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is a popular place for grey nomads to visit … and to stop for as long as they can!
Located high in the Blackall Range about 35 kilometres or so west of Caloundra, the area was first settled following the Gympie gold rush, but was soon transformed into a booming timber town as the surrounding rainforest was heavily logged.
Today, all that really remains of those mighty woodlands is a 40-hectare patch at the picturesque Mary Cairncross Reserve, which is just a few kilometres out of town and well worth a visit. There are a series of trails and accessible boardwalks offering visitors views of the Glass House Mountains, and some insight into the vast variety of plant and animal life here.
Gardners Falls is a popular spot for a swim and a picnic. PIC: Tourism and Events Queensland
Maleny eventually evolved into a centre of dairy production and fruit growing, and slowly attracted an increasing number of artists and craftspeople.
With a population of around 4,000, the town is now a popular destination for holidaymakers and for daytrippers from Brisbane and the coast. There is no shortage of fascinating arts and craft galleries to explore here, and there are plenty of places to eat or grab a coffee on Maple Street. And local produce is very much on the menu.
A must-do for most is to visit Maleny Dairies, and also to watch cheesemakers in action at Maleny Cheese. Many beer lovers also enjoy a trip to Brouhaha Brewery to enjoy a craft beer while drinking in some stunning scenery.
Maleny’s village atmosphere is much valued by residents and visitors alike, so much so that back in 2005 a campaign to try to stop a Woolworths supermarket opening here garnered international attention … although it was ultimately unsuccessful.
Another leading attraction is Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World, which boasts some stunning gardens, ponds … and views! Also close to the town centre are Gardners Falls, where the Obi Obi Creek falls into a large swimming-friendly natural rock pool.
To get a real appreciation of the sheer beauty of the area though, it’s worth taking a drive along Mountain View Road and stopping at a series of stunning lookouts including Howells Knob Lookout, one of the highest points in the Blackall Ranges.
A top spot for a picnic, walk, swim, kayak, or fish is Baroon Pocket Dam, which is halfway to the gorgeous village of Montville.
The area, of course, boasts some great camping options including the grey nomad-friendly Ocean View Caravan & Tourist Park, which is about 10 minutes out of town … and the Maleny Showgrounds where travellers are welcome to stay except during major events and seasonal blockout dates.
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