Maleny Botanic Gardens

The sunshine coast hinterland is magical, I mean it is one of my favorite places to visit with or without kids. We finally got around to visiting the Botanic Gardens in Maleny now that the kids are a bit older. Let me start by saying don't visit with a pram. This was my first mistake and the reason I waited so long to visit in the first place. If you are taking a non walking child, I suggest a carrier or come back when they are older. There are some steep hills, a lot of areas you walk on grass and none of that is much fun if you have to push a pram. Also don't bother if you have a clingy toddler you will end up carrying. My kids were great all morning but at the end I had to hike up to the carpark from right down the bottom carrying my nearly 3 year old and holding my nearly 4 year old's hand. It was a very hot day... thank goodness my husband was there pushing the pram. But that was the only difficult part. Now for the positives! The garden is really beautiful. The drive to get to the garden... also fantastic. You get mountain views, spectacular nature and you can stop in the towns for an even better day out. The toddlers had a wonderful time exploring all the gardens had to offer. They loved the fairy garden, the tunnel's, the boat, and being able to let loose a bit without restrictions. There is something so calming about nature to children. The toilets are up the top at the entrance though so make sure they use them when you arrive. There is the option to hire a golf buggy but you can't access all the areas with one so just pack a backpack of snacks and let them wander around instead. We did not visit bird world (not a bird fan and I am certain the kids would freak out) but I have heard great things so if your kids love birds be sure to check it out. And once you leave the kids will likely pass out and you can relax and enjoy the pristine countryside on the way home. Entrance cost - $16 adults Children under 14 are free I would suggest going in early spring or the cooler months and making a day of it in the countryside.