Winston CottagePalmwoods · Sunshine CoastBack to the cottage ←
The Winston Cottage guest guide
Go where the
day takes you.
From rainforest trails to open beaches, some of the Sunshine Coast’s loveliest places are an easy day trip from your door.
Your local starting point
Coast in one direction.
Country in the other.
Winston Cottage sits between the green folds of the Blackall Range and the blue sweep of the Pacific. Pick a region, leave room for a spontaneous stop, and enjoy the drive.
Chris & Deb’s tip
Ask us what is looking especially lovely while you’re here.
Mountain villages & rainforest
The Blackall Range
Wind along the ridge through storybook villages, cool rainforest and sweeping coastal views. It is the classic hinterland day out — and wonderfully close to the cottage.
Best for · walks, long lunches, galleries & viewsMontville
A leafy village of galleries, boutiques, cafés and glorious views across to the coast.
↗02Flaxton
A peaceful pocket of the range, perfectly placed for scenic drives and rainforest escapes.
↗03Kondalilla Falls
Follow the rainforest trails to rock pools, lookouts and the falls. Take water and sturdy shoes.
↗04Mapleton
A relaxed ridge-top village near forest walks, picnic spots and expansive lookouts.
↗05Maleny
Country charm, artisan food, independent shops and a beautiful drive through rolling green hills.
↗Markets, makers & country charm
Yandina, Eumundi & Doonan
Head north for a day of market treasure-hunting, local flavours and easy country roads. These three stops pair beautifully in one unhurried loop.
Best for · markets, local produce & browsingYandina
Visit the historic town centre, explore The Ginger Factory and its gardens, or book a memorable meal at The Spirit House restaurant.
↗02Eumundi
Famous for its artisan markets, heritage streetscape, creative shops and convivial village atmosphere.
↗03Doonan
A green, semi-rural retreat between the hinterland and Noosa, dotted with cafés, studios and garden stops.
↗Ocean drives & salty air
The Sunshine Coast beaches
Follow the coast from Noosa to Caloundra and choose your own perfect patch of sand — sheltered bays, surf beaches, coastal walks and lively esplanades are all within reach.
Best for · swimming, coastal walks & sunsetNoosa
Start with Main Beach and Hastings Street, or walk through Noosa National Park for quieter coves.
↗02Coolum & Peregian
Laid-back beach villages, long surf beaches and plenty of places for coffee or lunch.
↗03Maroochydore & Alexandra Headland
A lively coastal stretch with river, surf, dining and an easy headland walk.
↗04Mooloolaba
Swim in the protected bay, stroll the esplanade and stay for seafood by the water.
↗05Caloundra
A string of family-friendly beaches and a scenic coastal path overlooking the Pumicestone Passage.
↗Ancient peaks & country towns
The Glass House Mountains
Travel south beneath the distinctive volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains, stopping in historic railway towns, country cafés and scenic lookouts along the way.
Best for · mountain views, heritage & country drivesLandsborough
A historic township and gateway to the mountains, with local cafés, heritage stories and an easy country pace.
↗02Beerwah
The lively heart of the district, close to Australia Zoo and surrounded by the dramatic mountain landscape.
↗03Glass House Mountains
Take in the peaks from a scenic lookout or choose a signed national park walk suited to your experience.
↗04Beerburrum
A small timber town beneath Mount Beerburrum, with forest scenery and a steep summit walk for energetic visitors.
↗The icons & big days out
Pick your
adventure.
Wildlife, family fun, golf and days on the water — these are some of the Sunshine Coast experiences worth putting on your holiday list.
The Big Pineapple
An iconic Sunshine Coast landmark and a nostalgic stop in the Woombye hinterland.
↗Aussie World
A colourful family day out with rides, games and attractions at Palmview.
↗SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
Meet marine life above and below the waterline at the aquarium in Mooloolaba’s Wharf precinct.
↗Australia Zoo
Wildlife encounters, conservation stories and the famous Crocoseum, just outside Beerwah.
↗Big Kart Track
Put your foot down at Australia’s largest commercial go-kart track near Landsborough.
↗Golf courses
Choose from beautifully kept resort, links and hinterland courses across the Sunshine Coast.
↗River cruises
See a quieter side of the coast on the Noosa River, Mooloolah River or Pumicestone Passage.
↗Whale-watching cruises
Head out from Mooloolaba during the seasonal humpback migration for a memorable ocean encounter.
↗Bli Bli Watersports Complex
Try wakeboarding, take on the floating aqua park or cast a line at the barra fishing park beside the Maroochy River.
↗Fresh, local & handmade
Market days
Fill your basket with farm-fresh produce, local crafts, vintage finds and street food at markets across the coast and hinterland.
Wednesday
Thursday
Saturday
Market days, times and seasonal schedules can change. Please check directly with the market before setting out.
Whale-watching is seasonal. Please check sailing dates and conditions directly with your chosen operator.
Your home between adventures
Come back to
something beautiful.
Put your feet up, pour a drink and plan tomorrow’s outing from the comfort of Winston Cottage.
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