Wine tasting experience in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland with vineyard views
⭐ 5★ Rated • Small Groups • Local Guides ⏱️ Limited weekend availability

Sunshine Coast Wine Tours & Hinterland Experiences

Explore boutique wineries, scenic mountain villages, and gourmet food on Queensland’s premier Sunshine Coast hinterland wine tours.

📍 Noosa 📍 Maroochydore 📍 Maloney
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Experience the Blackall Range Wine Trail

Immerse yourself in the stunning Sunshine Coast hinterland with award-winning wines, breathtaking mountain views, and authentic Queensland hospitality

4+ Boutique Wineries
6-8hrs Full Day Tours
420m Elevation Views
Year-round Available Tours

Why Choose Sunshine Coast Wine Tours?

The Sunshine Coast wine region offers an intimate and authentic wine-tasting experience nestled in the picturesque hinterland villages of Montville, Maleny, and surrounding areas. Located just over an hour north of Brisbane, this boutique wine region is characterized by rich volcanic soils, subtropical breezes, and elevations reaching over 400 metres above sea level—creating ideal conditions for producing distinctive Queensland wines.

Unlike the larger, more commercial wine regions of Australia, the Sunshine Coast wine trail provides a relaxed, personalized experience where passionate local winemakers share their craft in intimate cellar door settings. The region's wineries are complemented by stunning panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains, coastline vistas stretching from Coolum to Noosa, and lush rainforest scenery that makes every wine tour a visual feast.

What sets the Sunshine Coast apart is its perfect blend of world-class wines, spectacular natural beauty, artisan food producers, and charming hinterland villages. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or casual enthusiast, the region offers something special—from estate-grown wines with plantings up to 80 years old to contemporary craft beverages and paddock-to-plate dining experiences.

🍷 The Sunshine Coast Wine Experience

Combining award-winning wines with spectacular natural beauty, the Sunshine Coast hinterland offers an unparalleled wine tourism experience. Visitors enjoy boutique cellar doors, gourmet regional produce, charming mountain villages, and some of Queensland's most breathtaking views—all within easy reach of Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

Featured Sunshine Coast Wineries & Cellar Doors

The Sunshine Coast hinterland is home to exceptional boutique wineries set among rolling hills, volcanic soils, and cool-climate vineyards. These cellar doors showcase the region's unique terroir and are highlights of any Sunshine Coast wine tour, perfectly complementing visits to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Flame Hill Vineyard, Montville

Panoramic coastal views from 420m elevation on the Blackall Range

Wine barrels in cellar door

Authentic Cellar Door Experience

Estate-grown wines aged in traditional oak barrels

Maleny Mountain Wines iconic barrel building

Maleny Mountain Wines

Iconic 8-metre barrel-shaped cellar door with Glass House Mountains views

Wine tasting at cellar door

Premium Tastings

Sample award-winning wines with expert winemaker guidance

Paddock-to-Plate Dining

Gourmet meals featuring local produce with stunning hinterland vistas

Flame Hill Vineyard, Montville

Location: 249 Western Avenue, Montville

Elevation: 420 metres above sea level

Perched at the highest point in Montville on the Blackall Range, Flame Hill Vineyard is widely regarded as the Sunshine Coast's premier winery destination. The estate produces 100% estate-grown wines from both its Montville vineyard and Granite Belt property, ensuring complete control over quality from vine to bottle.

The expansive cellar door features tastings of whites, reds, sparkling, and fortified wines, while the award-winning on-site restaurant delivers exceptional paddock-to-plate dining with ingredients sourced from their own gardens and local suppliers. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase panoramic coastal views, making it a photographer's paradise and a regular highlight on private wine tours.

Specialties: Verdelho, Shiraz, Sparkling wines

Open: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30am – 5:00pm
Website: flamehillvineyard.com.au

Maleny Mountain Wines

Location: 269 Landsborough Maleny Road, Maleny

Elevation: 430 metres above sea level

Maleny Mountain Wines is a beloved family-owned winery housed in an iconic 8-metre-high barrel-shaped building—one of the region's most photographed landmarks. Its central hinterland location makes it an essential stop on Sunshine Coast day tours.

The wine range showcases the diversity of the Blackall Range terroir, including sweet and dry styles, full-bodied reds, crisp whites, fortified wines, and luscious dessert wines—all produced from locally sourced fruit. The friendly cellar door atmosphere encourages leisurely tastings, and visitors can enjoy local produce platters and cheese boards alongside their wine selection.

Specialties: Chambourcin, Verdelho, Port-style fortified wines

Open: Daily, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Website: malenymountainwines.com

Additional Regional Wineries

The broader Sunshine Coast wine trail includes several exceptional boutique producers that pair perfectly with visits to the Glass House Mountains or as part of a comprehensive Queensland wine tour:

  • Settlers Rise Winery – Montville, featuring premium wines blended by Master of Wine Peter Scudamore-Smith
  • Dingo Creek Vineyard – Renowned for diverse grape varieties and award-winning wines of distinction
  • Winya Wines – Sandy Creek, Kilcoy (approximately 1 hour from Brisbane)
  • Ocean View Estates – Contributing to the region's diverse wine portfolio

Discover more about the region through Visit Sunshine Coast.

What to Expect on Your Wine Tour Experience

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Premium Wine Tastings

Sample award-winning wines including full-bodied reds, crisp whites, elegant rosés, sparkling wines, and rich fortified wines at multiple cellar doors throughout your day. Expert winemakers guide you through their range, sharing stories and insights.

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Gourmet Food Pairings

Indulge in artisan cheese platters, handcrafted chocolates from Maleny Chocolate, and locally sourced produce that perfectly complement the region's wines. Experience true farm-to-table Queensland hospitality.

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Restaurant Dining

Most tours include lunch at acclaimed hinterland venues such as Secrets on the Lake, Brouhaha Brewing Co., or Flame Hill's award-winning restaurant featuring panoramic coastal views and seasonal menus.

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Scenic Mountain Lookouts

Stop at breathtaking viewpoints including Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Gerrards Lookout, and stunning vistas of the iconic Glass House Mountains. Perfect for memorable photos and nature appreciation.

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Craft Beer & Spirits

Many tours incorporate tastings at local breweries and distilleries including Sunshine & Sons Distillery and craft beer venues, offering a comprehensive beverage experience beyond traditional wine.

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Comfortable Transportation

Enjoy convenient door-to-door service with pickup and drop-off from Sunshine Coast locations in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles. Some operators offer Brisbane and Gold Coast pickups too.

Tour Options & Packages

Full Day Wine Tours

Comprehensive 6-8 hour experiences typically including:

  • 3-4 premium winery visits with guided tastings
  • Two or three-course gourmet lunch
  • Multiple scenic lookout stops
  • Visits to artisan food producers
  • Complimentary bottled water throughout
  • Air-conditioned luxury transportation
  • Expert local guide commentary

Duration: Approximately 8:30am - 5:00pm
Best for: Complete hinterland immersion

Half Day Wine Tours

Condensed 4-5 hour tours perfect for time-conscious travelers:

  • 2-3 carefully selected winery/brewery visits
  • Premium wine and/or beer tastings
  • Scenic viewpoint photography stops
  • Optional gourmet lunch or cheese platters
  • More affordable pricing option
  • Flexible morning or afternoon departures

Duration: 4-5 hours
Best for: Quick getaways and cruise passengers

Private Group Tours

Fully customized experiences for special occasions:

  • Hen's parties and milestone birthdays
  • Corporate team building events
  • Anniversary and romantic celebrations
  • Completely tailored itineraries
  • Groups from 2 to 24+ people
  • Exclusive luxury vehicle options
  • Personalized pace and preferences

Flexibility: You choose venues, timing, and activities
Best for: Special celebrations and groups

Shared Group Tours

Join like-minded wine enthusiasts for a social experience:

  • Meet fellow wine lovers and travelers
  • Pre-planned professional itineraries
  • More economical per-person pricing
  • Small intimate groups (typically 6-12 people)
  • Available Friday through Sunday
  • No minimum group size required

Availability: Weekend departures
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and small groups

Beyond the Wineries: The Complete Sunshine Coast Hinterland Experience

Sunshine Coast hinterland tours offer far more than wine tastings alone. From charming mountain villages and rainforest lookouts to artisan food producers and craft beverage experiences, the hinterland delivers a complete, immersive regional journey just inland from the coast.

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Charming Hinterland Villages

Explore the picturesque mountain villages of Montville and Maleny, two highlights of Sunshine Coast hinterland tours. Stroll through boutique-lined streets featuring art galleries, handcrafted gifts, specialty food stores, and locally owned cafés overlooking rainforest canopies.

These villages capture the relaxed hinterland lifestyle and creative spirit, making them a favourite stop on wine tours, gourmet tours, and scenic day trips from Noosa and the Sunshine Coast.

View Hinterland Village Tours →
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Rainforests, Lookouts & Natural Attractions

Sunshine Coast hinterland wine tours showcase some of Queensland’s most spectacular natural scenery. Highlights include Kondalilla Falls, ancient subtropical rainforests, and panoramic viewpoints across the Glass House Mountains.

Many tours include stops at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, where elevated lookouts offer sweeping coastal views — a perfect balance of nature, relaxation, and photography.

View Scenic Hinterland Tours →
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Artisan Food & Farm-Gate Experiences

The Sunshine Coast hinterland is renowned for its farm-to-table culture and artisan food producers. Tastings often include award-winning dairy from Maleny Dairies, handcrafted cheeses, boutique chocolates, and seasonal local produce.

These authentic food experiences are a key highlight of gourmet tours and wine tours, connecting visitors directly with passionate local makers and producers.

View Gourmet & Food Tours →
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Craft Beer, Spirits & Boutique Beverages

Beyond wine, Sunshine Coast hinterland tours also feature a thriving craft beverage scene. Visit venues such as Brouhaha Brewing Co. and Sunshine & Sons Distillery to sample small-batch beers and premium artisan spirits.

Many full-day and private tours combine wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cider houses for a well-rounded tasting journey through the hinterland.

View Craft Beer & Distillery Tours →

Planning Your Perfect Wine Tour

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

The Sunshine Coast hinterland offers year-round appeal:

  • Autumn (March-May): Ideal temperatures (18-25°C), harvest season atmosphere, stunning autumn foliage, clear mountain air
  • Winter (June-August): Crisp cool mornings (10-20°C), spectacular clear days, cozy cellar door fireplaces, minimal rainfall
  • Spring (September-November): Wildflowers blooming, pleasant weather (20-27°C), new wine releases, jacaranda season
  • Summer (December-February): Lush tropical greenery, warm days (22-30°C), afternoon mountain breezes, occasional refreshing rain

🎒 What to Bring

  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, sunglasses
  • Camera: Fully charged for stunning scenic photos
  • Layers: Light jacket (hinterland 5-10°C cooler than coast)
  • Payment: Credit card for wine purchases at cellar doors
  • Luggage space: Room for your favorite bottle discoveries!
  • Water bottle: Stay hydrated between tastings

🚗 Getting to the Hinterland

From Brisbane: 90-120 minutes via Bruce Highway (M1), then inland through Landsborough

From Sunshine Coast: 30-45 minutes from Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, or Caloundra

From Gold Coast: Approximately 2 hours via M1 northbound

From Noosa: 35-50 minutes via scenic coastal and hinterland routes

Most professional tour operators offer convenient pickup services from all major Sunshine Coast locations and selected Brisbane suburbs, eliminating driving concerns.

ℹ️ Important Information

  • Age restriction: Tours are strictly 18+ only
  • Bookings: Advanced reservations required (48-72 hours minimum)
  • Dress code: Smart casual attire recommended
  • Payments: All venues accept card payments
  • Shipping: Many wineries offer Australia-wide wine shipping
  • Dietary needs: Advise at booking for accommodation
  • Weather: Tours operate rain or shine with covered venues

Tour Inclusions & Pricing Guide

✅ What's Typically Included

  • Transportation: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off from your accommodation
  • Vehicle: Modern air-conditioned comfortable transportation
  • Guide: Professional knowledgeable local driver/guide
  • Tastings: Wine tastings at 3-4 premium venues (full day) or 2-3 venues (half day)
  • Water: Complimentary bottled water throughout the tour
  • Lunch: Included on most full-day tours (check specific tour details)
  • Commentary: Informative narration on local history, culture, and attractions
  • Scenic stops: Photo opportunities at lookouts and attractions

💰 Additional Costs to Consider

  • Wine purchases: Bottles at special cellar door pricing
  • Extra drinks: Additional beverages beyond included tastings
  • Lunch: On tours where it's not included (typically $25-45)
  • Optional extras: Artisan chocolates, cheese, or specialty products
  • Gratuities: Tips for excellent service (optional but appreciated, 10-15%)

Price Range: Full-day tours typically range from $150-$220 per person, while half-day tours range from $95-$150 per person. Private tours are quoted based on group size and customization requirements.

What Our Guests Are Saying

Absolutely spectacular day! The wineries were stunning, the food was incredible, and our guide was so knowledgeable about the region. Flame Hill Vineyard was the highlight with those amazing views. Would highly recommend!

— Sarah M., Brisbane

Perfect blend of wine, food, and scenery. We visited 4 beautiful wineries and had a delicious lunch. The hinterland is gorgeous and the wines were surprisingly excellent. Great value for a full day experience.

— James & Emma, Sydney

Our hen's party was unforgettable! The private tour was perfectly paced, the venues were charming, and we felt so well looked after. The Maleny area is absolutely beautiful. Five stars!

— Kate L., Gold Coast

Ready to Discover Sunshine Coast Wines?

Experience the perfect blend of award-winning wines, stunning hinterland scenery, and authentic Queensland hospitality. Book your Sunshine Coast wine tour today and create unforgettable memories in one of Australia's most beautiful boutique wine regions.

Enquire About Wine Tours

Questions? Call us on 1300 XXX XXX or email info@cooeetours.com.au

Frequently Asked Questions

Most full-day wine tours run for approximately 6–8 hours, typically departing around 8:30am and returning by 5:00pm. Half-day tours usually last 4–5 hours. Private tours can be customised to suit your preferred schedule and pace.

Absolutely! Wine tours offer more than tastings — enjoy scenic hinterland views, gourmet food, charming villages, and relaxed cellar-door experiences. Most venues provide non-alcoholic options such as juice, soft drinks, and specialty teas.

Wear smart-casual, comfortable clothing. The hinterland can be 5–10°C cooler than the coast, so bring a light jacket. Enclosed walking shoes are recommended — avoid high heels or flip-flops.

Yes! All cellar doors offer wine purchases, often at exclusive cellar-door prices. Many wineries can organise domestic shipping across Australia, so you don’t need to carry bottles with you.

Shared group tours usually run Friday to Sunday. Private tours are often available on weekdays, subject to venue availability. Advance booking is strongly recommended.

Full-day tours typically visit 3–4 venues, including wineries, breweries, or distilleries. Half-day tours usually include 2–3 stops. Itineraries may vary based on availability and group preferences.

Inclusions vary by tour. Many full-day tours include a restaurant lunch, while others offer lunch as an optional add-on. Light snacks or cheese platters are often included — always check your specific tour details.

Pickup is available from most Sunshine Coast locations including Noosa, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Caloundra, and surrounding areas. Brisbane CBD pickups may be available for an additional fee.

Tours operate rain or shine. Most tastings and meals are indoors or undercover, and misty hinterland weather can enhance the experience. In extreme conditions, rescheduling or refunds may be offered.

Yes! Most venues can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other dietary needs. Please advise requirements at the time of booking.