For years, Noosa has captured Australia’s heart with its glittering blue waters and sugar-white sands, but there's more to this slice of paradise than surf and sunshine. Just a short 20 to 30-minute drive from Noosa’s shoreline lies the charming Noosa Hinterland – a collection of quaint country towns and rolling landscapes that feel worlds away from the coast. Despite partly sharing a name with its beachy counterpart, the hinterland offers a fresh escape far from the summer crowds. Is it one of Australia's best-kept secrets? Perhaps it's time to go and find out.
What is the Noosa Hinterland?
Stretching across the quaint small towns of Cooran, Cooroy, Doonan, Eumundi, Kin Kin and Pomona, Noosa Hinterland is a peaceful, green escape from the popular beach scene nearby. Here, you’ll trade sun-soaked sands for lush rolling hills, pristine lakes, gorgeous farmlands and boutique vineyards. And when the ocean’s call strikes, Noosa’s famous beaches are just a short drive away.
Why you should visit Noosa Hinterland?
Cosy cottages, bustling markets, old-world pubs, secluded trails, historic sites – Noosa Hinterland seriously does have it all. Here are five of the best things to do.
1. Catch a film at the longest-running silent movie theatre in the world
Experience the old-world charm of silent films at The Majestic Theatre. Built in the 1920s as a social hall, this grand old cinema continues to screen silent films, along with live acoustic music performances, themed movie nights, sing-a-longs and tributes throughout the week. Every Saturday at midday, audiences can tap their toes to classic flicks like Singin’ in the Rain, with each silent screening accompanied by multi-instrumentalist Chris Rose playing the fabulous 1937 Compton organ.
2. Explore the biggest art and craft market in Australia
Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, Eumundi’s longstanding market (we’re talking since the eighties here!) becomes a blank canvas that welcomes both seasoned and budding artisans, performers and creators. Join the millions of visitors each year to explore more than 600 stalls showcasing everything from coastal artworks and handmade pottery to old-fashioned lemonade, fragrant paella and fresh cinnamon doughnuts.
3. Stretch your legs on the Noosa Biosphere Trails
Even the most seasoned Aussie hikers haven’t heard of this series of secluded trails in Noosa Hinterland. You’ll likely walk, cycle or horse 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 to breathtaking lookouts, and stumble upon the cutest cáfes when passing through townships including Cooroy, Cooran, Pomona and Kin Kin.
4. Soak up the sun at this gorgeous outdoor eatery
Noosa’s gorgeous hinterland is full of hidden gems, and The Doonan is one of our favourites. Set across two hectares, this boutique pub and plant-lovers paradise has something for everyone. By day, enjoy fire-roasted bread, grilled seafood and cocktail jugs in the sun-soaked beer garden, adorned with hanging plants, vines and olive trees. For a more spontaneous outing, swing by for a takeaway pizza paired with a few cold tinnies from the bespoke bottle shop.
5. Stay in the heart of the hinterland
Waking up with the waves is pure bliss, but waking up to the gentle rustle of rainforest leaves and the soft twitter of birds is a whole new level of serenity. This is a reality at the Secluded Retreat in Noosa Hinterland, a gorgeous four-bedroom hotel tucked between the trees, just ten minutes from the charming town of Eumundi and twenty minutes from the hustle and bustle of Noosa. Sure, you might not have the beach at your doorstep, but you won’t be complaining when you’re unwinding by the pool in your own private slice of rainforest paradise.