We’ve found the Sunshine Coast’s best kept secret

For years, Noosa has won the heart of Australia with his glittering blue waters and sugar white sand, but this slice of paradise has more to offer than surf and sunshine. Just a 20 to 30 minute drive from the Noosa coastline lies the charming Noosa Hinterland – a collection of quaint country towns and rolling landscapes that feel worlds away the coast. Despite sharing a name with its beachy counterpart, the hinterland offers a fresh escape away from the summer crowds. Is it one of Australia’s best kept secrets? Maybe it’s time to find out.

What is Noosa’s hinterland?

Stretching across the quaint little towns of Cooran, Cooroy, Doonan, Eumundi, Kin Kin and Pomona, Noosa Hinterland is a peaceful, leafy escape from the popular beach scene nearby. Here you’ll trade the sun-drenched sands for lush rolling hills, pristine lakes, beautiful farmlands and boutique vineyards. And when the call of the ocean strikes, Noosa’s famous beaches are just a short drive away.

Why you should visit Noosa Hinterland?

Cozy cottages, bustling markets, old-fashioned pubs, remote trails, historic sites – Noosa Hinterland really has it all. Here are five of the best things to do.

1. Watch a movie in the world’s longest-running silent cinema

Experience the old-world charm of silent films at The Majestic Theatre. This large old cinema was built in the 1920s as a social hall and still shows silent films, live acoustic music performances, themed film nights, sing-alongs and tributes throughout the week. Every Saturday afternoon, audiences can tap their toes to classic films like Singing in the rainwith each silent display accompanied by multi-instrumentalist Chris Rose playing the fantastic 1937 Compton organ.

2. Discover the largest arts and crafts market in Australia

Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, Eumundi’s long-standing market (we’ve been talking here since the 1980s!) will be a blank canvas that welcomes both seasoned and aspiring artisans, artists, and makers. Join millions of visitors every year and explore more than 600 stalls selling everything from coastal artwork and handmade pottery to old-fashioned lemonade, fragrant paella and fresh cinnamon donuts.

3. Stretch your legs on the Noosa Biosphere Trails

Even the most seasoned Australian hikers have never heard of this series of remote trails in Noosa’s hinterland. You’re likely to walk, cycle or horse ride in absolute tranquility as you venture off the beaten track on one of eight routes, ranging from five to 26 kilometres. Expect to pass through cattle gates, climb to breathtaking viewpoints and come across the cutest cafes as you walk through townships including Cooroy, Cooran, Pomona and Kin Kin.

4. Enjoy the sun in this beautiful outdoor restaurant

Noosa’s beautiful hinterland is full of hidden gems, and The Doonan is one of our favourites. Spread over two hectares, this boutique cafe and plant lover’s paradise has something for everyone. During the day you can enjoy toasted bread, grilled seafood and cocktail pitchers in the sun-drenched beer garden, decorated with hanging plants, vines and olive trees. For a more spontaneous outing, stop by for a takeaway pizza paired with a few cold cans from the custom bottle shop.

5. Stay in the heart of the hinterland

Waking up to the waves is pure bliss, but waking up to the gentle rustle of rainforest leaves and the gentle chirping of birds is a whole new level of serenity. This is a reality at the Secluded retreat in the Noosa hinterlanda beautiful four bedroom hotel nestled amongst the trees, just ten minutes from the charming town of Eumundi and twenty minutes from the hustle and bustle of Noosa. Sure, you may not have the beach on your doorstep, but you won’t complain when you unwind by the pool in your own piece of rainforest paradise.

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