MARY VALLEY

Arguably the Sunshine Coast’s best-kept secret, punctuated by hills and valleys, in addition Lake Borumba the beautiful Mary Valley offers country charm and a wonderfully slow pace of life.

MARY VALLEY SCENIC DRIVE

Offering vistas ranging from pineapple plantations, macadamia farms, rich pastures with grazing cattle, rainforest and endless rolling hills, the Mary Valley Scenic Drive passes through the quaint heritage towns of Imbil, Kandanga and Amamoor where country hospitality abounds.

Weekend markets offering up local fresh produce alongside unique arts and crafts, while there’s also plenty of opportunity for picnics whether riverside or at any of the many scenic outlooks along the route.

AMAMOOR STATE FOREST

Home to more than 120 species of birds, Amamoor State Forest offers plenty for birdlovers and hiking enthusiasts including the Rainforest Walk through sub-tropical rainforest and a large swimming hole. A must-do is Platypus Walk, a short 300m stroll to a viewing platform overlooking Amamoor Creek.

PADDLING WITH PLATYPUS

Mary Valley’s unspoiled waterways, including Yabba Creek, have much to offer including the rare opportunity to paddle with platypus. Misty early mornings on Yabba Creek make for a wonderful start to the day, with serene kayaking offering plenty of opportunity to discover the wildlife that abounds in this area – including kangaroos, wallabies and the colourful azure kingfisher.

HORSE RIDING

Arguably one of the best places for horse riding in southeast Queensland, Mary Valley has a network of trails and tracks that pass through natural eucalypt forests, rainforest, plantation pines as well as providing elevated views of the surrounding countryside.

FESTIVALS

Mary Valley Art Festival is held in the first week of July each year, showcasing talented artists from the region and across southeast Queensland plus providing workshops and demonstrations for budding artists.

Mary Valley Scarecrow Festival is held during October and early November each year, with a scarecrow map providing adventure for the whole family.

Nearby festivals also include the Kenilworth Cheese, Food and Wine Festival at Easter and the Gympie Music Muster in August.

MARY VALLEY RATTLER

Rediscover the magic of a bygone era aboard the Mary Valley Rattler, an historic steam train that offers a 46km scenic round trip that chugs its way through the region from Gympie.