Hinterland Villages
Explore the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Mapleton Springs is ideally located near the charming Sunshine Coast Hinterland villages of Maleny, Montville, Mapleton, Flaxton and Kenilworth, making it the perfect base for romantic getaways, rainforest retreats and scenic hinterland exploration.
Mapleton
Mapleton offers a quieter and more relaxed hinterland village experience, surrounded by rainforest, scenic lookouts and fresh mountain air. Enjoy peaceful cafés, local charm and easy access to some of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s most beautiful waterfalls and walking trails.
Perfect for those looking to escape the crowds, Mapleton combines tranquil village atmosphere with breathtaking natural scenery just minutes from Mapleton Springs.
From Mapleton Springs: approx. 5 minutes | Best for: local cafés, Mapleton Falls and a quieter village experience.
Rachel's tip: Mapleton Falls is easy to enjoy even if walking is difficult, with views available close to the car park. The short walk is also relatively gentle for those wanting to explore a little further.
Flaxton
Flaxton is known for its scenic hinterland drives, rolling countryside views and relaxed dining experiences overlooking the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. The area is home to boutique wineries, charming cafés and peaceful outlooks perfect for a leisurely day exploring the range.
Surrounded by rainforest and winding country roads, Flaxton offers a slower pace where visitors can enjoy local flavours, breathtaking views and beautiful hinterland sunsets.
From Mapleton Springs: approx. 10 minutes | Best for: scenic drives, dining and exploring between Mapleton and Montville
Rachel's tip: Flaxton Gardens is a popular wedding venue with stunning hinterland views and is also a lovely spot for breakfast or lunch. Check opening times and availability before visiting.
Flaxton Barn is another favourite with locals and visitors for breakfast and lunch, with a small gift shop featuring local produce and gifts.
Montville
Nestled along the Blackall Range, Montville is a charming artisan village known for its boutique shopping, handcrafted gifts and relaxed hinterland atmosphere. Wander leafy streets lined with galleries, cafés, fudge shops and artisan chocolates while enjoying cool mountain air and rainforest surrounds.
Scenic walks, hidden lookouts and nearby rainforest trails including Kondalilla Falls make Montville the perfect place to slow down, explore and soak in the beauty of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
From Mapleton Springs: approx. 15 minutes | Best for: boutique shopping, galleries, cafés and restaurants
Rachel's tip: Montville is one of the Hinterland's most popular villages, but many shops begin closing from around 3 pm, so I recommend visiting earlier in the day if you'd like time to browse.
For dinner, Altitude and Montville Bar & Grill offer a complimentary courtesy bus that can collect guests from Mapleton Springs and return them after their meal. Bookings and courtesy-bus availability should be confirmed directly with the restaurant.
Kondalilla Falls can get very busy on weekends, so I recommend arriving early. In warmer weather, don't forget your swimmers if you'd like to enjoy a swim in the rock pool.
Maleny
Maleny is one of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s most loved villages, known for its boutique cafés, scenic lookouts, botanic gardens and artisan shopping surrounded by breathtaking rainforest views.
Relaxed village streets are filled with galleries, bookstores, local produce and peaceful hinterland charm, making Maleny a favourite destination for day trips, long lunches and scenic exploring.
From Mapleton Springs: approx. 25 minutes | Best for: cafés, shopping, galleries and scenic drives
Rachel's tip: Maleny has an interesting mix of cafés, independent shops and local attractions. Keep an eye out for platypus from the boardwalk, or book a guided experience with the Platypus Whisperer if you'd like to learn more about these fascinating animals.
Kenilworth
Kenilworth is a charming country town famous for its welcoming atmosphere, local produce and iconic bakery treats. Visitors travel from across the Sunshine Coast to experience the town’s legendary doughnuts, artisan cheeses and relaxed country hospitality.
Surrounded by rolling green hills and farmland, Kenilworth offers a peaceful day trip filled with country cafés, boutique food stops and classic small-town charm.
From Mapleton Springs: approx. 25–30 minutes | Best for: country-town atmosphere, local food and exploring the Mary Valley
Rachel's tip: Kennilworth's popular bakery is well known for its donut challenge and can attract queues on weekends, so allow a little extra time. Maleny Cheese is another popular stop for visitors exploring the area.
After a day exploring the charming villages of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, return to Mapleton Springs to relax in peaceful adults-only accommodation with beautiful hinterland views, an infinity pool, hot tub and infrared sauna.