weddings, tours and events

Hearts set on the hinterland for your destination wedding? Or maybe you’re keeping your options open when it comes to finding the perfect Queensland wedding venue. Well, step this way because we’ve found a idyllic mountaintop destination that ticks every box for a dream celebration.

Just half an hour (but worlds away) from the Sunshine Coast shoreline, the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast hinterland awaits your discovery. A place where fairy tales unfold in a wonderland of rolling hills, rainforest hideaways, and alpine-inspired townships. With country charm on tap, it’s little wonder couples are falling for the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

It really is glorious up here.

Poised on the majestic Blackall Range, just over an hour from Brisbane, the township of Montville is at the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. You’ll find acres of inspiration for an intimate elopement or winery wedding right through to a lavish garden party or a magical mountaintop soirée.

You’ll also have a choice of boutique accommodation and plenty to delight your guests — think scenic drives, waterfall walks, gallery-hopping and leisurely gourmet lunches. Plus, a community of wedding professionals right on your doorstep to help design a magical, stress-free day.

When it comes to planning a destination wedding, Montville and its hinterland neighbours offer an important drawcard (and it’s not just that crisp mountain air). The region’s excellent all-in-one ceremony and reception venues offer a setting for every rustic, vintage, traditional or micro-modern event. From enchanting chapels and glorious private estates to vineyards with sea views, the Sunshine Coast hinterland is dotted with gems. Several venues even offer a helicopter arrival — what a way to elevate your entrance!

So, ready to look around? We’ve got a few names for your shortlist.

If you’re dreaming of epic views, see one of the region’s premier destinations for weddings, Flaxton Gardens. With sweeping coastal and mountain vistas, the grounds are perfect for a breathtaking ceremony followed by a grand marquee reception on the Tuscan Terrace. The venue’s beautiful Barrel Room will also set the scene if you’re planning a more intimate winery wedding.

We’ve also found a secret garden (in the middle of town!) for your shortlist. While it’s easily accessible via the main street, Montvale at Montville feels like a secluded and serene oasis. And their Glasshouse eco chapel is stunning. As well as their Maple Cabin set in the lush grounds and lake, there’s also luxury apartment accommodation and fine dining next door at Altitude on Montville for your whole wedding party.

For true romantics, the name to know is Spicers Clovelly Estate. It’s simply one of the most elegant hinterland retreats you could hope to find for your destination wedding. Enjoy 22 acres of photo opportunities (think manicured lawns, grand fig trees and groves of magnolias) and the kind of French-inspired luxury that will have you locking in a honeymoon here too. And because it’s a Spicers Retreat, you know the service and cuisine are top-notch.

We know many of you are eying off a hinterland honeymoon, so you may have already discovered Secrets on the Lake. Nestled between Lake Baroon and an ancient rainforest backdrop, this is one of the region’s most beloved hideaways for eco-destination weddings and intimate honeymoons. Celebrate lakeside nuptials followed by lunch at the Lakehouse and a memorable stay in one of the unique luxury treehouses.

And speaking of honeymoons, many newlyweds love that they can honeymoon here nestled in nature!

Other options hidden within the village beckon. The Chapel Montville is a dream destination. Nearby the Montville Village Hall offers country style and value right in the midst of the village.

If this region has captured your imagination, we highly recommend experiencing the magic of Montville and the Sunshine Coast hinterland for yourselves. If you can squeeze in a planning reconnaissance mission, allow time between venue viewings to explore and soak up the atmosphere. After all, who doesn’t love an excuse for a romantic short break?

Contributed collaboration with Queensland Brides. Montville Chamber of Commerce thank the Sunshine Coast Council for contributing to this project supporting the weddings sector through the provision of a grant.