Easter is the perfect excuse to pack a bag, hit the road and explore tucked away towns in South East Queensland. Our two-day itinerary takes you from Brisbane through the Glass House Mountains and into the creative enclaves of Montville and Eumundi, before looping back down via Noosa and Coolum. Along the way, expect be excellent coffee, fresh local produce and delightful diversions that make the drive as enjoyable as the destinations.
Day 1
First stop: beautiful views. A road trip north from Brisbane isn’t complete without a stop at the Glass House Mountains Lookout in Beerburrum. Just off Steve Irwin Way, it’s a chance to stretch your legs and take in the dramatic peaks that have watched over this region for millennia. The nearby Trachyte Circuit is a good option if you’re in the mood for a short walk.
Next, push on to Maleny, a town known for its good coffee and fiercely independent food scene. Shotgun Espresso serves an excellent pour alongside house-made pastries, while Maleny Food Co is the place for a heartier breakfast. Before you leave town, drop by Seasons IGA Maleny to stock up on picnic essentials like a variety from Maleny Cheese, vinegars and salad dressings by Pomodoras in nearby Landsborough and Maleny Cuisines products such as jams, marmalades and chutneys.
It’s a short but picturesque drive to Montville, and a detour at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve lets you take a quick wander through the rainforest. The reserve also offers a clear view back towards the Glass House Mountains – one of the best in the region.
Montville itself is a haven for artists and makers. The main street is lined with independent galleries, craft stores and specialty food shops. Make time to visit Chocolate Country, where you can grab a box of handcrafted truffles before heading up to Gerrards Lookout for another well-placed panoramic view. Thinking of lunch? Stop by Poet’s Cafe for a feed and eye-catching views over the valley.
Back on the road, Mapleton Falls Lookout is a quick stop en route to Eumundi. The short stroll to the viewing platform is well worth it, particularly after rain when the falls are gushing.
Rolling into Eumundi mid-afternoon, you’ll find a town that has built its reputation on originality. If it’s a Wednesday or Saturday, the Eumundi Markets are unmissable – you’ll find an eclectic mix of handmade goods, vintage finds and food stalls. On any other day, the town’s independent boutiques and galleries still offer plenty to explore.
Time to check into where you’ll rest your head for the night – a stay at the Imperial Hotel’s boutique accommodation gives you exclusive access to guests-only wellness facilities like the magnesium pool and spa, while the Eumundi Guesthouse has a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
No matter where you’re staying, grab dinner at the Imperial Hotel. The venerable old pub has a strong craft beer list and a kitchen serving well-executed pub classics. Time your visit right and you might catch some live music, too.
Day 2
Start your morning with breakfast at Eumundi Coffee Roasters, a local roastery serving expertly crafted coffee and simple, tasty pastries – just be sure to leave room for other delicious eats later in the day.
From here, it’s a short drive to Noosa National Park, where just a few steps along the Coastal Walk delivers ocean views and the chance to spot local wildlife like cute koalas. Be sure to pack a camera: the stretch past Tea Tree Bay towards Hells Gates is particularly picturesque. If the water’s calling, Noosa Main Beach is an ideal spot for a swim before continuing south.
This holiday hotspot has no shortage of excellent lunches. Sails Noosa offers a refined take on modern Australian with an impressive wine list. Those looking for something more casual will find plenty of options in Noosa Junction, including Light Years for punchy pan-Asian flavours.
Heading south, IGA Peregian Beach is conveniently located for restocking road trip snacks. Owned by a couple who’ve been IGA owners for 30 years, the store focuses strongly on local producers, making it a good place to grab a few more provisions. You’ll find quality products from some 200 Sunshine Coast businesses – such as Hum Honey, German Bakehouse, Suncoast Eggs and Your Mates Brewing, all with a sticker proclaiming they’re local – so you shouldn’t be stuck for choice.
Take the coastal drive from Peregian Beach through Coolum and Mudjimba, breaking up the journey with a stop at Wilkinson Park Lookout. It’s a great spot to enjoy serene ocean views and stop for a mid-afternoon snack from your IGA haul – before driving that final, reluctant stretch back to Brisbane.
Watch: Travel Diaries: A Day Trip to Point Lonsdale
Want to escape the city this Easter? We join restaurateurs Alex Gavioli and Daniel Leuzzi on a day trip from Melbourne to Point Lonsdale, where the day unfolds to discover the best local eats and drinks in the region, from artisanal bakery treats at The Local Geelong, followed by an alfresco repast of beachside sandwiches crafted from the bounty of Barwon Heads IGA. As the afternoon wears on, they repair to Noble Rot wine bar, where locally-sourced mussels are paired with the chardy of Gavioli’s dreams
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with IGA. With nearly 1400 independently owned stores around Australia, IGA more than just a supermarket chain – each store is part of its community. Plan your next trip to stop into an IGA for local produce, snacks for the road and tips for your stay in the area.
