Where To Drive In The Sunshine Coast
March 4th, 2010 by Zane Archer, under Uncategorized. No Comments
This drive leads through the Blackall Range, the tranquil, emerald-green hills that frame the beaches and resort towns of the Sunshine Coast.En route are quaint hillside villages well serviced with cafes, stores and galleries and to the south a scenic road swoops through the sculptural shapes of the Glass House Mountains. The journey can be completed in a day, but there are plenty of B & Bs and guesthouses for over night stays.
Begin your tour at Noosa Heads, which is known to be the epicenter of the Sunshine coast, set on the lovely Laguna Bay. The dramatic clifftop views that span downward to the sandy beaches are amazing. Next stop is Eumundi. Eumundi is a 19th century timber town which begins the ascent to the hills. The fresh market on Wednesday and Saturday is a great time to stop and enjoy the local produce and craters. Yandina is the next stop on this journey. Ginger is a major crop in this area and they have a factory which also serves as a theme park for visitors. Don’t miss the ride through the gardens on the Queensland Cane Train.
On the way to Mapleton, stop at the Dulong Lookout situated at the top of the escarpment. The views are exhilarating ” rolling green hills to the east and dense forest to the north. Take the time to explore tiny Mapleton Falls National Park which preserves remnant rainforest and a 120 metre waterfall. The road from Mapleton to Flaxton traces the ridge of the Blackall Ranges offering magnificent views east and west .Just south of Flaxton is the turn-off to Kondalilla National Park, a small park where over 100 bird species have been recorded. This is also where you will find Kondalilla Falls, an impressive 90metre cascade with a rockpool suitable for swimming perched on top!
Gerrard Lookout is located between Montville and Maleny at an astonishing 375 meters above sea level. The views here span from Caloundra to Noosa and just a bit further are views of Lake Baroon and the Kenilworth forest views. Mountain view road offers views of the Glass House Mountains which are all identified with proper signage.
Old Gympie Road cuts right through the middle of the Glass House Mountains and veers southward to Landsborough. There are 16 volcanic plugs and peaks and plugs which make up the Glass House Mountains at their maximum height of 556 meters. Rock climbing is a popular sport for climbing here.
Many travelers looking for the right Sunshine Coast accommodation start by searching the internet. Online you can search for just the right Sunshine Coast hotels to fit the needs of your group for your upcoming vacation.
