On a trip to the Sunshine Coast hinterland, it’s essential to pack an appetite, because there’s a cornucopia of local produce worth sampling.
The obvious is dairy food. Local guernsey herds graze on the mountain range’s rich green grass and produce milk that is transformed into high-quality cream and cheese.
Norman and his team at Maleny Food Co also use the milk in their popular gelati. It’s made to a traditional Italian method, which compared to ice cream is more intense and smoother. Some of his flavours come from a combination that includes fruit and nuts from the region.
All sorts of tasty local produce features on the shelves, and on the menu, of the Maleny Food Co deli café on Maple Street. Maleny Black Angus beef mince is used in the café’s burgers.
Norman does look further afield to stock his incredible Fromagerie, which contains over 250 cheeses and pate, salami and other deli meats.
You can also expect a generous breakfast hamper that’s overflowing with local flavours if you spend a night at Lovestone Cottages.
The couples retreat that’s just 15 minutes away on Western Avenue at Montville Grove is perched high on a rainforest-covered escarpment, overlooking Lake Baroon.
Its Maple Cottage has been cleverly renovated to bring the outdoors, indoors and make the most of views of the property’s spectacular gardens.
Room facilities include a double spa bath, fireplace, and well-equipped kitchen and bbq area, which makes longer stays more comfortable.
This truly is a delightful part of the world to escape to, whether you choose a romantic cottage or to sleep under the stars at a glamping retreat.
You can sample some of the best cheese in the country, and pair it with a glass of local wine or craft beer, followed by something sweet.
There’s more inspiration for planning a genuine Sunshine Coast escape on the Sunshine Coast for Real website.
