Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Montville, Queensland, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. This charming village, perched on the Blackall Range, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this region. From its stunning views of the coast to its boutique shops and exquisite local cuisine, Montville, promises an unforgettable experience.
Why Visit Montville?
Montville, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast and lush rainforests across the hinterland. The village is a hub for artists and artisans, with numerous galleries showcasing local talent. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, discovering unique shops, cafes, and historical landmarks that tell the story of this beautiful region.
Explore the Unique Shops
Shopping here is an experience in itself. The village is home to a variety of boutique stores, each offering something special. From handcrafted jewelry and locally made art to gourmet food products and unique fashion, Montville’s shops reflect the creativity and talent of the local community. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the artisan markets, held on the second Saturday of the month, where you can find everything from pottery to organic skincare products.
Delight in Montville’s Cafes and Dining Experiences
Montville, boasts a range of delightful cafes and restaurants that cater to every palate. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Montville Café Bar & Grill, known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere. For a taste of the gourmet side, visit The Long Apron, a fine dining restaurant offering contemporary cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The Poets Cafe, with its beautiful views and charming décor, is another one of the town’s beautiful cafes, serving delicious meals and locally roasted coffee in a relaxing setting.
The Edge Café is a must-visit. Perched on the eastern edge of the Blackall Range, this café offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal or a quick coffee break. The Edge Café is known for its delicious menu, featuring a variety of dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, including hearty breakfasts, gourmet sandwiches, and indulgent desserts. The combination of stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and delectable food makes The Edge Café a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Montville, Queensland, is a sought-after wedding destination, and it’s easy to see why. The village offers several stunning wedding venues, each with its own unique charm. Spicers Clovelly Estate is one of the most popular venues, offering a romantic, French-inspired setting surrounded by lush gardens. For those seeking a more rustic charm, Flaxton Gardens, although not technically Montville, provides breathtaking views of the coast and hinterland, perfect for an elegant countryside wedding.
Celebrate Your Wedding in Montville
The wedding chapel in the heart of town in Montville is called “Montville Chapel.” Created by Rounvenne Geijl, His vision was to create something in harmony with St Francis, the patron saint of ecology and of animals. As a result, the Chapel blends respectfully and beautifully into the natural surroundings. With views all across the hinterland and down to the coast it is a popular wedding venue on the Sunshine Coast.
Montville’s elevation of 400 metres (1300 feet) above sea level, means its a more mild and temperate climate compared to the coastal areas, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The town experiences warm summers and cool winters, with temperatures generally ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 28°C (82°F) during the summer months (December to February).
Summers are warm but comfortable, with occasional afternoon showers that bring relief from the heat. This is also the wettest time of the year, with the lush greenery of the hinterland thriving under the summer rains.
Winters, from June to August, are cool and crisp, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Evenings and early mornings can be chilly, sometimes dipping below 10°C (50°F), so it’s advisable to bring a sweater or jacket. However, the winter months are generally dry, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Spring and autumn offer mild weather as well with comfortable temperatures, the clear skies and gentle breezes create an inviting atmosphere for hiking, sightseeing, and visiting Montville’s many attractions.
Discover the Rich History of Montville
Montville is a charming town that has captivated the hearts of tourists and vacationers alike but beneath its contemporary appeal lies a history rich in pioneering spirit and agricultural success.
Montville’s origins trace back to 1887 when Peter Weitemeyer and his wife Isabella settled on land along Mill Hill Road. They transformed this land into thriving plantations, cultivating bananas, oranges, pineapples, macadamias, avocados, and strawberries. These crops became the backbone of the local economy, providing significant income for many families and enhancing the value of the surrounding land.
As the town grew, Montville became a key stop on the Moreton Mill tramway in the early 1900s. This tramway connected the town to larger communities in southeast Queensland, facilitating the transport of passengers, timber, livestock, fruit, and sugar cane. It also hosted monthly excursions, bringing visitors from Brisbane to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Hiking from Kondalilla Falls to Baroon Pocket Dam
The hike from Kondalilla Falls to Baroon Pocket Dam is one of the most scenic and rewarding treks in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and tranquility. Starting from the car park off Narrows Road, this trail takes you deep into the heart of Kondalilla National Park, a lush haven known for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes.
As you set out on the trail, you’ll meander through dense woodland, where towering trees and vibrant foliage create a peaceful canopy overhead. The path is well-marked, guiding you toward several lookout points that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside. Notable lookouts include the Baroon, Narrows, and Flat Rock, each providing a unique perspective of the rugged terrain and the expansive Baroon Pocket Dam below.
One of the highlights of this hike is the visit to Kondalilla Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades into a series of rock pools. These natural pools are perfect for a refreshing dip, especially on a warm day. The cool, clear water provides a rejuvenating break from the hike, and the sounds of the cascading waterfall, coupled with the songs of eastern whipbirds, create an atmosphere of serenity and relaxation.
As you continue along the trail, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this park home. Birdwatchers will delight in the chance to spot rare species, while the more observant hiker may catch glimpses of native animals darting through the underbrush. The forest is alive with the sounds and sights of nature, making every step of the journey a new adventure.
The trail can be hiked in either direction, and if you choose to start from Baroon Pocket Dam and make your way to Kondalilla Falls, you’ll experience the same stunning views and natural wonders. However, be sure to prepare adequately, especially if you plan to hike in wet conditions, as leeches can be a common nuisance. If you take this direction, be prepared for over 300 steps back up to the falls. Coming from Kondalilla falls to Baroon Pocket dam can be an easier option as the path is a switch back with a steady but gentle slope back up to the carpark.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful day in nature, the walk from Kondalilla Falls to Baroon Pocket Dam offers an unforgettable experience. With its combination of spectacular views, refreshing swimming spots, and vibrant wildlife, this trail truly showcases the beauty of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
A tip from someone who has done this walk, if you are planning on walking with a friend or a family member with another car, park one car at the finish point car park (depending on which way you are walking) and travel together in one car to the start of the walk. That way you have a car at the finish point and can go back to collect the first car. The stairs and slopes on either end of the walk can be grueling so unless you want to back track this will save you a lot of pain!
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in nature, Montville is the perfect destination. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, historical charm, unique shops, charming cafes, and exquisite wedding venues, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Make Montville a part of your Sunshine Coast journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
