Glass House Mountains

The perfect place to disconnect from regular programming and plug into nature, The Glass House Mountains that flank the Sunshine Coast promise a region that’s ripe for adventure. 

Driving towards the Glass House Mountains

Looking like something straight out of Jurassic Park, these magnificent rocky outcrops are actually remnants of volcanic activity that occurred more than 25 million years ago. As the volcanic molten rock cooled, 11 awe-inspiring vertical ranges emerged over time. Today, they’ve become iconic landmarks in our leafy backyard and the perfect place to stretch your legs and fill your lungs with that fresh Sunshine Coast air. 

It’s also an area that is steeped in First Nations history. A special meeting place of cultural and spiritual significance for the traditional owners of the Sunshine Coast, the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples, many ceremonies and social activities have been held here so it’s important to acknowledge and pay your respects on your visit.

Not sure where your hiking boots should take you first? The Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre is a great place to start, with loads of helpful information available about the mountains and the region’s history.

Hiking at sunset on Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains

A playground of hiking trails, waterholes and jaw-dropping lookouts, modern-day explorers can trek through gullies, coastal plains and woodlands alongside the locals who call this lush spot home - koalas, goannas, echidnas, grey kangaroos and the glossy black-cockatoo can all be spotted here.

Families will enjoy the ease of Mount Tibrogargan with its 4km circuit through eucalypt forest and casuarina groves around the mountain’s base. There’s also a bunch of picnic tables dotted along the way so you can whip out the trail mix and refuel.

Hiking Mount Ngungun, Glass House Mountains

If you’re seeking that perfect shot for Instagram, Mt Ngungun offers one of the most popular hikes on the Sunshine Coast. This 2.8km trail starts in a dreamy open forest, ending with 360 vistas of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin and Mount Beerwah. For a serious ‘pinch me’ moment, aim to do the trek at sunrise or sunset and watch the sky transform into a technicolour rainbow.

All that exploring will have your stomach rumbling. You can load up on local produce and get a caffeine hit at Everything Good and stop in for lunch at The Lookout Café, Glass House Mountains. 

Journey back in time at Bankfoot House - a state heritage-listed property and the oldest surviving residence in the Glass House Mountains. And for something a bit different and whole lot quirky, have canapés and a cuddle with the friendly camels at QCamel, the world's only Certified Organic camel dairy that has views overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains. 

Qcamel

In the evening, snag a room with a view from Glass House Mountains Eco Lodge, where you’ll rest your head in restored historic train carriages. Or for something extra luxe, treat yourself to a stay at Glass on Glasshouse where floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to fully appreciate the landscape around you.