Are you looking for things to do in the Glass House Mountains? This article covers all the best Glass House Mountains things to do including natural attractions, places to visit, activities and tips on where to stay.
The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Kabi Kabi First Nations and the Jinibara people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Glass House Mountains and Beerwah is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
When you visit Glass House Mountains, you’ll soon see what an absolutely breathtaking area it is. The region has iconic natural attractions and fabulous tourist experiences, including the world-famous Australia Zoo. You certainly won’t be short of things to do in Glass House Mountains or the nearby town of Beerwah.
So without further ado, let’s get into it and help you discover the best things to do at Glass House Mountains as well as things to do in Beerwah during your Sunshine Coast hinterland stay.
Main image credit thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland
- THINGS TO DO GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS MAP
- BEST GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS THINGS TO DO
- 1 Australia Zoo
- 2 Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre
- 3 Bankfoot House
- 4 Mount Ngungun
- 5 Glass House Mountains Lookout Cafe
- 6 Mount Tibrogargan
- 7 Abseiling Glass House Mountains
- 8 Rock climbing Glass House Mountains
- 9 Explore Beerwah walking trails
- 10 Take a scenic drive
- 11 Visit a lookout
- 12 Aussie World
- 13 Sheep Herding for City Dogs
- 14 Landsborough Museum
- 15 Mountain biking
- 16 Vintage Treasure Market Glasshouse
- 17 Hinterland Market Trail
- TOURS OF GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS AND BEERWAH
- GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS DAY TRIPS
- GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS ACCOMMODATION
- ENJOY GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS AND BEERWAH!
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THINGS TO DO GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS MAP
Before we start on all the best Glass House Mountains attractions and Beerwah things to do, check out the map below to help you plan your itinerary. This map shows the location of all the places to visit and things to do covered in this guide.
BEST GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS THINGS TO DO
Below we cover what to do in Beerwah and the Glass House Mountains so you can enjoy an amazing Sunshine Coast hinterland stay.
1 Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo is one of the best day trips! The Sunshine Coast is home to the iconic attraction made famous by the late Steve Irwin, also known as the Crocodile Hunter.
It’s a big day out where you’ll be treated to live shows (the daily Wildlife Warriors show is not to be missed) and presentations throughout the day. The crocodile show and tiger show are very popular, so ensure you get in early for a good seat.
Come along and see koalas, crocodiles, red pandas, giraffes, tigers, dingoes, snakes, birds, lizards and so much more.
Australia Zoo also has a waterpark perfect for giving the kids some downtime between seeing the animals (don’t forget to pack swimmers and a towel!)
You can easily spend a full day exploring Australia Zoo and not see everything, so wear comfortable walking shoes. If you’ve got little ones, it’s a good idea to bring a pram with you, but you can hire one or even a pull along wagon (which is handy if you’re bringing a picnic) when you arrive.
Australia Zoo is definitely one of the top attractions the Sunshine Coast offers.
Location: 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah
Hours: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
Cost: With hospital sneak peek: $61.95 Adults | $41.95 Kids (3 – 14) | $190.95 Family (2A+2C) | $214.95 Family (2A+3C) – Click here to book tickets online
2 Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre
Pop into this one-stop shop packed with local visitor information, as it will definitely help you plan your stay. You’ll also find a selection of gifts and local goods, including honey and jam.
The Interpretation Centre gives you a fascinating overview of the area’s history.
You’ll also find toilets and picnic tables here, along with a playground and BBQ, making it an ideal stopping point on a day out.
Location: Bruce Parade, Glass House Mountains
Hours: Sunday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm | Saturday 9 am to 3 pm
Cost: Free (although you might want to buy local souvenirs from the shop!)
3 Bankfoot House
Bankfoot House Glass House Mountains is a heritage-listed property – it’s the oldest surviving residence in the Glass House Mountains region.
You can explore the house, learn about its history and stories, and view the wide collection of records and furniture. In addition to the exhibits, there is even a virtual reality experience!
The Mary Grigor Centre provides archives and educational material to help you learn all about the house and the surrounding area’s history. It’s a fascinating attraction that is well worth a visit.
Location: 1998 Old Gympie Rd, Glass House Mountains
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm
Cost: Free
4 Mount Ngungun
Mount Ngungun is the sixth tallest of the Glass House Mountains at 253 m, and it has a track leading to the summit that offers spectacular views – some people say it’s the best view of the Glass House Mountains!
Mount Ngungun is a popular Glass House Mountains hike due to its relative ease and fantastic views. You’ll need to allow a couple of hours to walk the grade four, 2.8 km return track, so you’ll need to be relatively fit. Take care, as there are cliff edges with dramatic drops.
The awe-inspiring views are well worth the effort – if you’re considering Glass House Mountains hikes, it’s definitely one to add to your itinerary.
Click here for more information.
Location: Fullertons Road, Glass House Mountains
Hours: Always open
Cost: Free
5 Glass House Mountains Lookout Cafe
When you’re exhausted from hiking Glass House Mountains trails, you must visit this cafe (also sometimes known as the Outlook Cafe Glass House Mountains) to take in the incredible views of the mango orchard and Mount Coonowrin.
This famous Glass House Mountains cafe is the perfect spot for a healthy breakfast, hearty lunch, or snack.
Fancy glamping? Glass House Mountains Lookout Cafe also has a resort here (Glass on Glasshouse) with luxury glass villas. It’s a bit posher (OK, a lot posher!) than glamping in a tent, and you get to enjoy incredible floor-to-ceiling views.
Location: 182 Glass House Woodford Rd, Glass House Mountains
Hours: Daily from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm (sometimes open until 3 – 3.30 pm on weekends if it is busy)
6 Mount Tibrogargan
While it’s not recommended to climb Mount Tibrogargan, there is a great 4.1km return circuit where you can enjoy views of the mountains from various angles.
With an estimated 1.5 hours duration and the track rates as a grade 3, this is one of the recommended Glass House Mountains walks for families or for those after nothing too strenuous.
Click here for more information.
Location: Berteaus Rd Glass House Mountains
Hours: Always open
Cost: Free
7 Abseiling Glass House Mountains
You must try abseiling in the Glass House Mountains if you love adrenaline sports. You can learn the basics of this skill while enjoying the epic scenery of Mount Ngungun. What better location to spend the day hanging from a sheer cliff face?
Click here for more information or to book
8 Rock climbing Glass House Mountains
Again, what better place to try rock climbing than this absolutely stunning Sunshine Coast hinterland location in the Glass House Mountains?
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, these unique craggy rock formations give you a perfect opportunity and there are tours suitable for beginners through to intermediate climbers.
Click here for more information or to book
9 Explore Beerwah walking trails
Considered the mother of the Glass House Mountains, Mount Beerwah is the highest of the Volanic mountains making up the Glass House Mountains.
For a great view of the mountain, take the 200m return walk, which takes you through the eucalypt forest and through an open grassed area offering fantastic views.
Click here for more information.
10 Take a scenic drive
The scenery around Glass House Mountains is nothing short of spectacular. Take a scenic drive but be prepared to keep stopping to admire the view of the mountains. It’s a great idea to pack a picnic too!
11 Visit a lookout
The Glass House Mountains provide so many lookout opportunities. It’s well worth exploring and make sure you take your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Glass House Mountain Lookout – Glass House Woodford Rd, Beerburrum
- Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout – Glass House Mountains Rd, Coochin Creek
- Jack Ferris Lookout – Beerburrum
12 Aussie World
Aussie World is one of those great things to do on the Sunshine Coast for kids. Aussie World is more compact than the Gold Coast theme parks, the lines are shorter and the ticket prices are much cheaper, making it an ideal Sunshine Coast attraction for families.
There are over 18 Aussie World rides and attractions spread out over 15 acres, so there is plenty to entertain you all day long. Rides include a water flume, Ferris wheel, carousel and teacup rides, but there are also some thrill rides for those daredevils amongst you!
Because of the wide range of rides, it’s perfect for toddlers, teens, parents and grandparents alike.
Location: 1 Downunder Drive, Palmview
Hours: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm
Cost: $49.95 | Group of 4 $199 | Group of 5 $248 – tickets are cheaper if purchased online
13 Sheep Herding for City Dogs
Travelling with your best friend and looking for a unique experience? Introduce your city dog to sheep herding!
Dogs are natural herders, so if your K9 companion is showing an interest in chasing or rounding things up this could be so much fun for both of you! It’s really just about having fun with your doggo, embracing your bond and gaining off leash control.
You’ll need to pre book a session online.
Location: 27 Stirling Road, Peachester
Hours: Go online to book sessions
Cost: $70 per dog, including evaluation and training | $35 per dog for returning customers | One to one sessions $120 per dog
14 Landsborough Museum
This heritage-listed museum houses fascinating records from the region’s history. Until 1968, it was the Landsborough Council Chambers building, which is now a volunteer-led museum.
Local families and businesses have donated all of the records held in the museum to depict the area’s history, so there is plenty to learn and explore.
Location: 4 Maleny Street, Landsborough
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm
Cost: Free
15 Mountain biking
There are lots of bike trails to enjoy in the Glass House Mountains for beginners through to experienced riders. These include:
- Ewen Maddock Mountain Bike Trail – suitable for families. Enjoy scenic views of the dam and Mt Beerwah.
- Glass House Mountains National Park Soldier Settlers Loop – suitable for families. This easy, mostly flat circuit takes in some great views.
- Bracalba Rail Trail and Conservation Park Trails – offer a wide range of terrains on different tracks. Raaen Rd, Mylett Rd, McConnell Rd near Derrick Rd and Oshea Rd
- Beerburrum/Glass House Mountains Loop – a pathway that takes you from Caboolture to Beerburrum State Forest
There are so many more bike trails to explore, so you can choose your level of challenge depending on your experience and who you’re travelling with!
It’s a great way to see the scenery, keep fit and take in the fresh air.
16 Vintage Treasure Market Glasshouse
If you enjoy shopping for unique treasures, drop into the Treasure Market – you might be able to pick up some souvenirs to remind you of your stay. Who knows what will be in the store – from Persian rugs to brass statues, collectable vinyls to preloved fashions – you can rummage through the shelves to your heart’s content and find some one-of-a-kind bargains.
Location: 1088 Steve Irwin Way, Glass House Mountains
Hours: Thursday to Monday from 9.30 am to 5 pm | Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
17 Hinterland Market Trail
This collaboration of eight markets in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland means you can keep your fridge well stocked during your stay as there is always lots of local produce on offer. It’s also a great opportunity to meet the friendly locals and immerse yourself in Sunshine Coast life.
The two most local markets to the Glass House Mountains are:
Beerwah Tower Green Market
Location: Beerwah Tower Green, Beerwah
Hours: Second Saturday of the month from 8 am – 12 pm
Beerburrum Hall Country Markets
Location: Beerburrum Hall, Beerburrum School of Arts Assoc Inc.
Hours: First Saturday of the month from 8 am to 12 pm
TOURS OF GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS AND BEERWAH
If you’re looking to explore all of the things to do in the Glass House Mountains and Beerwah, a day tour is a great option. You can sit back and relax while being driven around the best spots.
Sunshine Coast: Scenic Food and Wine Tour with Tastings
Another tour that combines the beautiful Hinterland scenery with local foods is this food and wine tour. It blends the best of the region’s stunning scenery with the best places to eat!
You’ll be treated to amazing experiences in the subtropical hinterland, visit lookouts across the Glass House Mountains and enjoy unique tasting experiences at locations such as Maleny Dairies. You’ll also enjoy a memorable wine tasting experience at The Barrel at Clouds Vineyards.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air, see the most spectacular sights, and eat all the good food (and wine!) What a perfect day!
Click here for more information or to book
GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS DAY TRIPS
While there is plenty to keep you occupied around Glass House Mountains and Beerwah, if you’re keen, there are some great day trips you can do from the area. For most of these places it’s recommended you stay at least a few days in each, but if you only have a day, then a day trip is possible.
Kenilworth
The tiny, rural hinterland town of Kenilworth is another great little foodie destination with attractions such as Kenilworth Bakery (selling their famous 1 kg donuts and sausage rolls!) and Kenilworth Dairies. You can easily explore the town’s highlights in a day as it’s very compact.
It’s around a one-hour drive from Glass House Mountains and you can stop at other small towns on your way there and back and make a little road trip out of it.
Click here for our full guide on things to do in Kenilworth. (Coming soon)
Eumundi
No day trip to Eumundi would be complete without visiting the world-famous Eumundi Markets. Do your best to time your visit for a Saturday or Wednesday and begin by browsing the artisan markets for handmade goods, fragrant foods, and fresh produce from the local growers.
This tiny town has a big personality, so make sure you spend some time exploring the shops, enjoying a cool drink in one of the bars or cafes so you can absorb the creative community atmosphere and checking out the local scenic lookouts.
Click here for our full guide on things to do in Eumundi.
Nambour
This rural town is one of the gateway towns to the Sunshine Coast and it’s known for its quaint charm, bustling cafes and being the home of the annual Big Pineapple Festival.
It is only half an hour’s drive from the Glass House Mountains, so it’s a great location for a morning or afternoon trip – pop over and shop in the unique stores and enjoy a hearty lunch in a cafe.
Click here for our full guide on things to do in Nambour (coming soon).
Montville
The picture postcard village of Montville is a country escape where you can enjoy lush forests, rolling green landscapes and spectacular scenery. This pretty holiday destination offers the most incredible uninterrupted views, along with delicious local produce, quaint shopping opportunities and a thriving arts scene.
Montville makes a great base for your Hinterland stay, but if you only have a day, spend some time enjoying the scenery, local food, and arts scene. It’s worth pairing your day trip with a visit to nearby Maleny, too, so you can enjoy both of these iconic villages.
Click here for our full guide on things to do in Montville.
GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS ACCOMMODATION
Looking for the best places to stay? Glass House Mountains offers a range of options.
It’s recommended you book through Booking.com as they offer a wide range of room types and most with free cancellation, which is ideal for last minute changes.
However, if you want our recommendation for a hotel, we’ve listed our top picks for a luxury hotel, family hotel, mid-range hotel, and budget hotel. You can see our accommodation Glass House Mountains recommendations below.
Best luxury hotel: Glass on Glasshouse
Looking for romantic getaways? Glass House Mountains is a great place for it! Glass on Glasshouse has three self-contained villas so you can relax and unwind in this indulgent accommodation near Glass House Mountains!
Previously voted ‘Most Romantic Holiday Rental’ by Stayz, this architecturally designed resort is a collection of three intimate villas with king-sized beds, floor to ceiling windows so you can drink in the amazing views, and robes and bath salts so you can indulge in some serious relaxation in the freestanding double bath.
Villas include Wi-Fi, smart TVs, Blu-ray DVD players, and a sound system that runs throughout the accommodation. There is also a BBQ so you can cook up a delicious dinner on your deck, an eco-smart fire for winter, and air conditioning for summer, so you’ll be able to stay at the perfect temperature.
The kitchenette means you can cater for yourself with the microwave, hot plates, and dishwasher. You can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee from the coffee machine. In the morning, you can relax as a delicious breakfast is delivered daily thanks to the Lookout Cafe.
In warmer months, you can enjoy the 10 m private swimming pool. There are washing machines and drying facilities available in the communal area, so you can keep up with your washing as you travel.
If you’re looking to get away from it all for a luxury break, Glass on Glass House is a great option. There is plenty to see and do close by, but equally you might just be happy sitting back to take in the amazing views from the comfort of your luxury glass villa.
Click here for more information or to book
Best family hotel: Blackwattle Farm
Families will love this farm accommodation in Beerwah. Situated on 20 acres of farmland, Blackwattle is a great farm stay. Glass House Mountains family resorts don’t come more fun than this with miniature pigs, miniature goats, dexter cows, sheep, alpacas, ducks, chickens, quails, and peacocks.
There are three accommodation options available to suit small families. There are two tiny houses called the Veggie Patch and Tall Gum. These sleep four or less and aren’t suitable for kids under 7 due to loft-style sleeping arrangements. There is also a self contained Rainforest Cabin which can accommodate younger children.
All options include BBQ facilities, kitchenette, air conditioning and heating, composting toilets in the tiny houses (there is a luxury bathroom in the Rainforest Cabin), linen, outdoor fire pit, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, microwave and breakfast. The Tiny Gum house even has an outdoor bath on the deck!
The farm is a hive of activity and kids will love taking part in the feeding at 9 am daily, where they can hold and pat the animals. Kids can also enjoy collecting fresh eggs. You can pick your own veggies from their vegetable garden, and more goodies can be bought from the farm gate so you can stock up to enjoy some delicious meals during your stay.
Get back to nature and enjoy some quality time with your kids at this idyllic farm stay.
Click here for more information or to book
Best mid range hotel: Seven Peaks Farm Stay
Seven Peaks farm stay accommodation in Beerwah is another great option to enjoy the incredible views while being very close to Australia Zoo.
There are six private cabins. While most sleep two people (some have the option of adding a rollaway bed), a family cabin sleeps up to four people, making it another option suitable for couples or small families.
This is a wonderful mid-range accommodation, although you may want to spend a little more time enjoying their honeymoon spa cabin with an outdoor spa bath that offers amazing views. All rooms feature air conditioning, microwave, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, TV and DVD player, fireplace, laundry with washer and dryer, small fridge and large outdoor kitchen area. A breakfast hamper is also included.
There is a relaxing garden for guests to enjoy at the property, and there is a picnic area so you can enjoy lunch outside with a view.
This 30-acre property is a great place to reconnect with nature and escape from it all.
Click here for more information or to book
Best budget hotel: Glass House Mountains Ecolodge
If you’re looking for a great value and unique base for your stay in the Glass House Mountains, the Glass House Mountains Ecolodge is it! This lodge offers a range of unusual accommodation options including cabins, hotel rooms, a church and converted vintage train carriages!
The accommodation features air conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, BBQ facilities, hairdryers, outdoor dining furniture, board games, and a hearty tropical breakfast served on the deck of a converted train carriage (for an extra fee).
There is a communal fire pit for guests so you can enjoy being outside in this incredible natural environment, and there is a games room for rainy days. The lodge owners are committed to sustainable practices so it’s a great destination for eco-conscious travellers.
With amazing views and unique accommodation options, staying at the Ecolodge will be a memorable holiday in the Glass House Mountains.
Click here for more information or to book
ENJOY GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS AND BEERWAH!
Hopefully, this guide has given you lots of inspiration for the best things to do in the Glass House Mountains and which Beerwah attractions to add to your itinerary.
If you’re planning a trip to the Glass House Mountains and Beerwah, I highly recommend you check out our Sunshine Coast guide which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.
I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.
If you’re heading to the Glass House Mountains, you might also be interested in the following nearby destinations: