Blackall Range Tourist Drive
A scenic route through lush rainforests, charming towns, and breathtaking lookouts on the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful drives
Blackall Range Tourist Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful drives
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic route through lush rainforests, charming towns, and breathtaking lookouts on the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
"Beautiful place to drive and stop at lookouts along the way."
🚗 Download Offline Maps
Mobile service is unreliable. Ensure your maps are downloaded before you go!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore trails and towns, so comfy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lookouts
Various points along the drive
Breathtaking vistas of the coastline and hinterland. Perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.
Charming Hinterland Towns
Maleny, Montville
Explore unique shops, local cafes, and artisan galleries. A delightful break from the drive.
National Park Trails
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Kondalilla National Park
Wander through lush rainforests, discover waterfalls, and spot native wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Pack for All Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
visiting hinterland vs bush vs outback
🚗 Download Offline Maps
Mobile service is unreliable. Ensure your maps are downloaded before you go!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore trails and towns, so comfy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
3 nights Sunshine Coast and then...?
To those who have been around the country, what is the absolute best place to go ride (or drive?)
📸 Stop at Lookouts
Don't rush! The drive itself is the attraction, with stunning views at every turn. :camerawithflash:
☕ Explore Local Cafes
Maleny and Montville offer delightful spots for a coffee break and local treats. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Download Offline Maps
Mobile service is unreliable. Ensure your maps are downloaded before you go!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore trails and towns, so comfy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Stop at Lookouts
Don't rush! The drive itself is the attraction, with stunning views at every turn. :camerawithflash:
☕ Explore Local Cafes
Maleny and Montville offer delightful spots for a coffee break and local treats. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Blackall Range Tourist Drive for its stunning natural beauty, with numerous lookouts offering breathtaking views of the coast and hinterland. The charming towns of Maleny and Montville are highlighted as delightful stops for shopping and dining. Some reviewers note that mobile service can be unreliable, and recommend downloading offline maps.
"Let bed the hinterland would have liked to explore more"
Col and Kim Hicks
"Beautiful place to drive and stop at lookouts along the way"
Anuschka Hof
"Where Maroochy river comes from, you're welcome."
K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Noosa, you'll typically head south towards the Sunshine Coast hinterland. The drive can be accessed via various routes, often involving heading towards towns like Maleny or Montville. It's a scenic route that winds through the mountains.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy the Blackall Range Tourist Drive as a day trip from Noosa or other Sunshine Coast locations. Allow at least 4-6 hours to truly appreciate the lookouts and towns.
A car is essential for exploring the Blackall Range Tourist Drive. While GPS is helpful, consider downloading an offline map as mobile reception can be intermittent.
Public transport is very limited for exploring the Blackall Range Tourist Drive. A rental car is highly recommended for flexibility and to access the various lookouts and towns.
The actual driving time can vary, but to fully enjoy the stops, plan for a full day. Driving the main loop without extensive stops might take 2-3 hours, but you'll want to spend much longer exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The drive itself is free. However, individual attractions like national park entry (if applicable for specific areas) or private attractions may have fees.
Lookouts are generally accessible at all times. The towns of Maleny and Montville have shops and cafes with typical business hours, usually closing by late afternoon or early evening.
No advance booking is generally required for the drive itself or most public lookouts. If you plan to visit specific paid attractions or restaurants, booking might be advisable, especially on weekends.
Entry to most national parks in Queensland is free. However, always check the Queensland National Parks website for any specific alerts or potential fees for certain facilities or activities.
Yes, you can visit on public holidays. Be aware that towns might be busier with local visitors, and some businesses may have altered trading hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key lookouts include those offering expansive views of the coastline and hinterland. Many are signposted along the route, providing stunning photo opportunities.
You might spot various bird species, wallabies, and other native Australian wildlife in the national parks and rainforest areas. Keep an eye out during your drives and walks.
Yes, there are numerous walking trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes in national parks like Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and Kondalilla National Park.
Maleny and Montville are the most popular towns, known for their artisan shops, galleries, cafes, and stunning views. They offer a charming break from driving.
It's a photographer's paradise! From sweeping landscape vistas at lookouts to lush rainforests and charming town scenes, there are endless opportunities for stunning shots.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Maleny and Montville offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. You can find everything from casual lunches to more upscale dining experiences.
Yes, many lookouts and national parks have designated picnic areas, often with tables and stunning views, perfect for a relaxed meal amidst nature.
Absolutely! The hinterland is known for its local produce. Look for farm gates, local markets, and specialty food stores in towns like Maleny for delicious treats.
Smaller villages might have a local pub or a charming cafe. It's always a good idea to check opening hours, especially if visiting outside of peak times.
Most cafes and restaurants in Maleny and Montville are accustomed to dietary requests and usually offer vegetarian and vegan options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during school holidays for a fun day out. The drive itself is engaging with its winding roads and changing scenery. Ensure children are safely secured in car seats and that you have entertainment for any longer stretches of driving. The towns often have ice cream shops, which are always a family favourite!
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
This drive is perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Take your time, pull over frequently at designated lookouts, and explore the charming towns of Maleny and Montville. The drive is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, allowing you to truly soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Blackall Range Tourist Drive
To make the most of your journey, it's recommended to start with a general idea of the towns you want to visit, such as Maleny and Montville, and then allow the drive to unfold. Many visitors choose to start from the coast and head inland, or vice versa. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, and always drive cautiously, especially around blind corners. Downloading an offline map is crucial, as mobile phone reception can be unreliable in many parts of the range.
Key stops often include Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve for its rainforest walks and wildlife, and various unmarked lookouts that offer breathtaking views. The drive is a journey of discovery, encouraging spontaneous stops to admire the scenery or explore a local artisan shop. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking a slower pace and a connection with nature.
Exploring Maleny and Montville
Montville, just a short drive from Maleny, offers a different, yet equally charming, experience. This picturesque village is famous for its English-style architecture, boutique shops selling everything from handmade crafts to unique souvenirs, and a strong sense of community. It's a fantastic place to wander, browse the shops, and enjoy the stunning hinterland scenery. Both towns provide excellent opportunities for photography and a delightful break from driving.
Nature and Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the reserves, the drive itself often presents opportunities for wildlife sightings. Driving through the range, especially during dawn and dusk, you might encounter kangaroos or wallabies grazing by the roadside. The dense forests are also home to a variety of birdlife, so bring binoculars if you're an avid birdwatcher. The natural beauty of the Blackall Range is a significant drawcard for visitors seeking an escape into the wild.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit