Tour Overview
Escape the beaches for a day and discover the lush hinterland behind the Sunshine Coast. This fully guided day tour winds through the Blackall Range, taking in the rainforest canopy at Kondalilla National Park, the swimming holes of Gardners Falls, and the artisan villages of Maleny and Montville — all with the dramatic backdrop of the Glass House Mountains on the horizon. Your expert local guide handles the driving and navigation so you can relax, photograph, and soak it all in.
The tour suits all ages and fitness levels. The main waterfall walks follow well-maintained tracks, and the village stops are flat and leisurely. An ideal choice for couples, families, photographers, and anyone who loves a good waterfall.
What You'll Experience
Kondalilla National Park
Follow the rainforest trail down to the 80-metre Kondalilla Falls. Spot pademelons, brush turkeys, and king parrots along the boardwalk before reaching the viewing platform above the cascade.
Gardners Falls
A local favourite for a reason — a series of rock pools and gentle cascades surrounded by towering gums. Bring your swimmers for a dip or relax on the rocks while your guide shares stories of the region.
Maleny & Montville Villages
Browse galleries, cheese shops, fudge makers, and bookshops in two of Queensland's most charming hinterland villages. Lunch is at your own pace from a choice of excellent local cafés.
Glass House Mountains Lookout
Pause at the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve lookout for one of the Sunshine Coast's most iconic views — the volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains rising above the subtropical canopy.
Sample Itinerary
Pick-ups are available from Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, and Caloundra. Exact times may vary slightly by pick-up location and season.
- 08:00 – Pick-up from your Sunshine Coast accommodation
- 08:45 – Arrive Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve — Glass House Mountains lookout and short rainforest boardwalk
- 09:30 – Depart for Kondalilla National Park
- 10:00 – Guided walk to Kondalilla Falls (approx. 2.4 km return, 60–90 min)
- 11:30 – Drive to Maleny
- 11:45 – Free time in Maleny for lunch, shopping, and exploring
- 13:15 – Short drive to Montville
- 13:30 – Browse Montville's galleries, fudge shops, and street stalls
- 14:45 – Depart for Gardners Falls
- 15:00 – Arrive Gardners Falls — swim, relax, or photograph the rock pools
- 16:00 – Depart for Sunshine Coast
- 16:45 – Drop-off at your accommodation
Gallery
What's Included
✓ Included
- Door-to-door hotel pick-up and drop-off (Sunshine Coast area)
- Air-conditioned vehicle and professional local guide
- Guided rainforest walk at Kondalilla National Park
- Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve entry
- Free time in Maleny and Montville
- Guided visit to Gardners Falls
- Bottled water and a light morning snack
✗ Not Included
- Lunch (plenty of cafés available in Maleny and Montville)
- Travel insurance
- Personal purchases and souvenirs
- Gratuities (optional)
Good to Know
- Duration: Approximately 8.5 hours (full day).
- Fitness level: Easy to moderate. The Kondalilla Falls trail is 2.4 km return with some steps; a shorter lookout-only option is available for those who prefer less walking.
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes with grip, swimwear and a towel (for Gardners Falls), sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, a light rain jacket, and a camera.
- Group size: Small groups of up to 12 guests for a personal experience.
- Climate: The hinterland is typically 3–5 °C cooler than the coast. A light layer is recommended for the morning rainforest walk.
- Accessibility: Please let us know of any mobility requirements at the time of booking. The Mary Cairncross boardwalk and villages are wheelchair-accessible; the waterfall trails involve uneven ground and steps.
Guest Reviews
"The waterfalls were stunning and the guide knew every bird call and tree species along the trail. Kondalilla Falls absolutely took our breath away — photos don't do it justice."
— Sarah & Tom, Brisbane
"We loved having the whole day planned for us. Maleny was a highlight — the cheese shop alone was worth the trip! Great value for a full-day tour."
— Christine, Gold Coast
"Perfect mix of nature and village exploring. Gardners Falls was so peaceful, and the kids were in the water within seconds. We'd do this tour again in a heartbeat."
— Mark & Kellie, Sydney
Reserve Your Hinterland Adventure
This tour runs daily (weather permitting) with limited spots per departure. Get in touch to check availability and pricing.
Enquire & Book Now