We found the Sunshine Coast’s best-kept secret

For years Noosa Conquered the heart of Australia sparkling blue waters and sugar-white sands, but there’s so much more to this slice of paradise than surf and sunshine. Just a short 20 to 30 minute drive from Noosa’s coastline lies the stunning Noosa Hinterland; a collection of quaint rural towns and rolling landscapes that feel like a world away. beach. Despite sharing a partial name with its coastal counterpart, the hinterland offers a fresh escape from the summer crowds. One of Australia’s best kept secrets? Maybe it’s time to go find out.

What is Inland Noosa?

Stretching through quaint small towns such as Cooran, Cooroy, Doonan, Eunundi, Kin Kin and Pomona, the Noosa Hinterland is a peaceful, green escape from the popular nearby beach scene. Here, you’ll swap sun-soaked sands for lush green hills, pristine lakes, gorgeous farmland, and boutique vineyards. When the ocean calls, Noosa’s famous beaches are just a short drive away.

Why should you visit Noosa Hinterland?

Cozy cottages, bustling markets, old world pubs, secluded roads, historic landmarks – Noosa Hinterland seriously has it all. Here are the top five things to do.

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

Experience the old-world charm of silent movies at The Majestic Theatre. Built as a social hall in the 1920s, this grand old cinema continues to show live acoustic musical performances, themed movie nights, sing-alongs and tributes, as well as silent films throughout the week. Every Saturday at noon, viewers can toe-tap classic movies like: I’m singing in the rainEach silent screening is accompanied by multi-instrumentalist Chris Rose playing his magnificent 1937 Compton organ.

2. Explore Australia’s largest arts and crafts market

Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, Eunundi’s well-established market (we’re talking since the eighties here!) becomes a blank canvas that welcomes both experienced and budding craftsmen, artists and creatives. Join millions of visitors each year to explore more than 600 stalls displaying everything from coastal artwork and handmade pottery to old-fashioned lemonade, fragrant paella and fresh cinnamon buns.

3. Stretch your legs on the Noosa Biosphere Trails

Even the most experienced Australian hikers haven’t heard of this series of secluded trails in the Noosa Hinterland. You’ll likely walk, cycle or horseback ride in absolute peace and quiet as you venture off the beaten path on one of eight trails ranging from five to 26 kilometres. Expect to pass through cattle gates, climb breathtaking lookouts, and stumble upon the cutest cafes as you pass through counties like Cooroy, Cooran, Pomona, and Kin Kin.

4. Soak up the sun at this amazing open-air restaurant

Noosa’s stunning hinterland is full of hidden gems and Doonan is one of our favourites. Spread across two hectares, this boutique pub and plant lover’s paradise has something for everyone. By day, enjoy fire-roasted bread, grilled seafood and pitchers of cocktails in the sunny beer garden, adorned with vines, vines and olive trees. For a more spontaneous outing, stop by to try your takeaway pizza along with a few cold cans from the craft 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. It’s a fact A secluded retreat in the Noosa HinterlandA stunning four-bedroom hotel tucked away among the trees, just ten minutes from the charming town of Eunundi and twenty minutes from the hustle and bustle of Noosa. Sure, the beach might not be on your doorstep, but you won’t be complaining as you relax poolside in your own private slice of rainforest paradise.

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