Queensland’s coast might get all the glory — but turn inland from the beaches, and you’ll uncover one of the state’s most enchanting destinations: Montville. This tiny mountain village nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland is the perfect blend of countryside charm, artisan culture, rainforest views, and gourmet experiences.
And the best part? It’s less than two hours’ drive from Brisbane.
With Redspot’s easy weekend rental options from Brisbane City or Airport, it’s the ideal destination for a spontaneous short break. Whether you’re looking for romance, fresh air, or fudge — this Montville road trip delivers.
Getting There: Brisbane to Montville
- Distance: ~105km
- Drive Time: 1 hr 45 min (via Bruce Hwy + Steve Irwin Way)
Pick up your Redspot rental in Brisbane, plug Montville into your GPS, and point your wheels north. You’ll leave the city behind as you hit the Bruce Highway, then transition onto the more scenic Steve Irwin Way.
🚗 Vehicle Tip: Opt for an SUV for boot space, comfort, and higher viewpoints on the winding mountain roads. Compare your options.
Optional detours before heading up the range:
- Australia Zoo – Iconic wildlife experience
- Glass House Mountains Lookout – Stunning photo op
- Maleny Cheese Café – Because cheese before lunch is always a good idea
First Stop: The Heart of Montville
Arriving in Montville feels like being dropped into a Swiss mountain postcard — if that postcard also had Aussie gumtrees and kookaburras.
The village’s high street is lined with Tudor-style and chalet-style buildings, housing artisan shops, chocolatiers, galleries, and quirky cafés. Park the car and wander on foot — this place was made for slow strolls and impulse gift buying.
Don’t Miss:
- The Clock Shop – Over 7,000 clocks from cuckoo to contemporary
- Flame Hill Vineyard – Local wine with a view
- Fudgyboombahs – Yes, that’s the name. Yes, they give free samples.
- Montville Art Gallery – Showcasing works from talented Queensland artists
Hot Tip: Time your arrival for late morning. It lets you beat the lunch rush and still enjoy a lazy midday meal with valley views.
Lunch with a View
You’re spoilt for choice in Montville, but here are three options that never miss:
- The Edge Restaurant – Floor-to-ceiling windows looking over the hinterland escarpment. Casual dining, serious scenery.
- Wild Rocket @ Misty’s – Historic building, paddock-to-plate focus, and great craft beer list.
- Poet’s Café – A romantic, European-style spot perfect for a long lunch (and a sneaky tiramisu).
Or grab a picnic basket from the Montville Deli and head to nearby Russell Family Park for a laid-back, BYO lunch by the lake.
Afternoon Adventures: Nature Meets Nostalgia
Just minutes from Montville’s centre are some of the region’s best lookouts and walking tracks.
Kondalilla Falls Walk
- 4.7km return loop
- Moderate difficulty with steps
- Ends at a waterfall-fed swimming hole
Pack: walking shoes, towel, and water bottle — you’ll want a dip!
Gerrard’s Lookout
- Just 5 mins from Montville on Maleny-Montville Road
- A favourite for sunrise and sunset views over the valley to the ocean
🧭 Why drive? These spots are just far enough apart that a car is essential. This is where having your own wheels makes the magic possible.
Optional Overnight Stay: Make It a Mini Break
Not ready to head back yet? We don’t blame you.
Montville and nearby Maleny offer a huge variety of boutique accommodation:
- Altitude on Montville – Hotel-style with private spa baths
- Treetops Seaview – Romantic cabins with treetop views
- Secrets on the Lake – Luxury treehouses (book well in advance!)
Wake up to misty rainforest mornings, grab a pastry from a local bakery, and make a slow journey home. If you’re renting from Redspot over the weekend, weekend deals make overnight escapes easy and affordable.
The Way Back: More Hinterland Highlights
Make your return drive a loop via Maleny. It’s equally charming and home to:
- Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World – For serious tropical garden envy
- The Barrel @ Clouds Vineyard – Wine tasting in a giant wine barrel building
- Maleny Dairies – Family-run farm offering tours (book ahead!)
You can also continue out to Kenilworth, another hidden gem, for doughnuts and the famed Kenilworth Bakery 1kg donut challenge — if you dare.
Final Pit Stop: Ginger and Gifts in Yandina
On your way back to Brisbane via the Bruce Highway, swing through Yandina to visit:
- The Ginger Factory – Tour the gardens, shop for sweet gifts, and ride the ginger train
- Spirit House Restaurant & Cooking School – For modern Thai cuisine tucked in the rainforest (bookings essential)
Wrap-Up: Why Montville Is the Ultimate Short Break by Car
Montville offers that rare combo of natural beauty, small-town heart, and European village vibes — all without needing to hop on a plane. It’s a road trip that hits every note: indulgent, peaceful, scenic, and full of character.
Whether you’re a local looking to escape the city, a couple in need of a romantic recharge, or a visitor keen to see the Queensland coast from a new angle — Montville is the perfect pick.
And with a Redspot rental, you’re free to travel at your own pace, detour when the road calls, and discover what’s beyond the brochure.