Step into Sunshine - Make the Most of the Coast
Drive into the great outdoors and experience the natural wonders and scenery of the Sunshine Coast. We at RaD Car Hire like nothing better than setting out to explore all this stunning region has to offer – there’s more than meets the eye! With your rental car sorted, it’s time to start planning some outdoor footwork – treading forests and hills – our list will leave you exhilarated, not breathless!
Strap on the walking shoes
The Sunshine Coast plays host to some of Australia’s most breath-taking scenic reserves and hinterland. For a subtropical experience jump in the car and head to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in Maleny for the day. Toted as a ‘living museum’, the 55 hectare reserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, and the unique Rainforest Discovery Centre where you can get up close and personal with Mother Nature. The walking tracks through the forest are all family and wheelchair-friendly – and there’s a picnic, playground and BBQ spot too!
Kondalilla National Park
Just 30 kilometres west of Maroochydore is Kondalilla National Park, a sanctuary of lush rainforest, a stunning waterfall and rock pools. The park’s name ‘Kondalilla’ is aboriginal and means ‘rushing waters’ and it attracts both visitors and wildlife aplenty. There are several walking tracks to choose from. Take a turn on the Kondalilla Waterfall Circuit – a 4.7 kilometre track – which begins just 100 metres from the carpark, or for the less adventurous stroll the Picnic Creek Circuit which ambles through open forest and finishes at the rock pool at the top of the falls.
Head for the hills
Mount Coolum
As Everest was to Edmond, so to is Coolum to the Sunshine Coast – you just can’t miss it. Just 3.5 kilometres north of Coolum Beach, and presiding over the Coast at 208 metres high, this volcanic dome is nothing less than awe-inspiring. The climb is approximately 45 minutes and is recommended for the relatively fit as it does get steep and rocky in places. Once you’ve reached the summit, prepare for a photo frenzy as views sweep from Double Island Point all the way to Caloundra.
The Glass House Mountains
Unlike their name, the Glass House Mountains are far from fragile – in fact their peaks can challenge the fittest of the fittest. The 11 mountains are nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, approximately one hour’s drive south of Noosa. In and amongst these majestic giants are six small townships all linked via train and roading. The mountain range is also home to Australia’s most famous wildlife park, Australia Zoo!
There’s a mountain for everyone – Mount Beerwah, Mount Ngungan, Mount Beerburrum. If you are planning an easier stroll, why not aim for Mount Beerburrum. It is located on the outskirts of Beerburrum township. The drive in your Sunshine Coast rental car is well sign posted and an unsealed road directs you to a carpark where you begin the trail.
The climb is approximately 700 metres and the pathway 1.5 metres wide – and all concrete – no rubble to scramble over. Climb at your own pace, pack a picnic and sit back and take in the stunning scenery at the top. Bliss!
