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A guide to winter in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland

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When winter rolls into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, something magical happens. The mornings are crisp, the skies turn the deepest blue, and the mist lingers a little longer over rolling green hills. It’s a time when the pace slows, fireplaces are lit, and long lunches stretch into golden afternoons. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly indoor activities, a comforting chef-cooked meal, or the perfect place to hibernate, winter in the Hinterland is rich with charm, flavour, and cool things to do.

Here’s your guide to embracing the colder months in one of Queensland’s most enchanting regions.

Wineries and winter dining hotspots

Cooler weather calls for warming meals and rich, earthy flavours—something the Sunshine Coast Hinterland delivers in abundance.

Spirit House, tucked away in a lush garden setting in Yandina, is one of the region’s most iconic dining experiences. With its moody ambience, flickering lanterns and spicy, Thai-inspired cuisine, it’s the kind of place that feels made for winter evenings. Whether you’re indulging in a slow, sumptuous dinner or taking one of their cooking classes, it’s the perfect blend of escape and experience.

Over at The Doonan, the vibe is completely different yet equally enticing on a Queensland winter’s day. Reminding you that the Sunshine Coast’s beautiful weather and outdoor lifestyle doesn’t come to a grinding halt in the cooler months, the venue’s lush gardens offer a tranquil setting while the Italian-inspired menu of wood-fired pizzas and hearty share plates—and curated wine list—are made for comfort eating. With indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and a great playground for the kids to run around and warm up, it’s a great spot to gather with friends and linger over a long lunch.

Fancy a glass of red wine by the fire? The Hinterland’s cool, dry winters make it an ideal time to explore the region’s boutique wineries and cellar doors. Flame Hill Vineyard in Montville offers sweeping views and cool-climate wines that pair beautifully with hearty seasonal dishes. Book a tasting flight followed by lunch in their restaurant, or take a stroll through the vineyard wrapped in a scarf and a sense of calm.

Dingo Creek Vineyard, just a short drive away in Traveston, is another hidden gem worth the detour. With its rustic charm, friendly hospitality, and picturesque setting, it’s a peaceful place to slow down and savour the season.

Aquarium

Family fun on chilly days

There’s no need for kids to go stir-crazy in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland when there are so many great weather-proof activities to keep them entertained. 

The Ginger Factory in Yandina is a local favourite all year round, but in winter, it offers a warm and fragrant experience for little ones and grown-ups alike. Enjoy the train rides, explore the bee tours, and tuck into ginger treats that feel especially festive in the cooler months.

When the weather turns or you’re looking for a screen-free way to keep little ones occupied, the Sunshine Coast delivers with plenty of indoor family-friendly activities. SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast in Mooloolaba is always a hit, offering close-up encounters with rays, sharks, and penguins that spark curiosity and wonder. 

For something more active, Holey Moley in Maroochydore brings quirky fun with its mini golf meets karaoke concept that’s great for kids (and adults, too). And if they’ve got energy to burn, Bould Move indoor rock climbing gym offers a safe, exciting space to climb, stretch, and explore—all indoors and all-weather friendly.

Kondalilla National Park

Nature walks and waterfalls 

Winter is actually the best time to get outdoors in the Hinterland—without the heat and humidity. Take a morning stroll along the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, where you’ll find walking tracks, a brilliant kids’ discovery centre, and panoramic views over the Glass House Mountains.

If you’re up for a little more adventure, Kondalilla Falls is a must. The loop walk winds through rainforest and leads to cascading falls that are beautiful year-round. Pack a thermos and enjoy a quiet moment in nature—it’s soul food in every season.

Mater Prize Home Lottery No. 319

Hibernate at home

While there’s plenty to see and do across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland in winter, some days are best spent doing absolutely nothing at all—and that’s where our latest Mater Prize Home lottery No. 319 truly shines.

Set on over 1.5 acres of lush hinterland, this beautifully crafted home is the definition of a winter escape. A hybrid fireplace takes centre stage in the open-plan living area, casting warmth and atmosphere across the space. Plush sofas, layered textures, and a muted palette inspired by the surrounding countryside all add to the home’s sense of calm and comfort.

Step outside and you’ll find another favourite winter feature—a fire pit. In fact, there are two fire pits on this prize home property—one that’s connected to the main house and another beside the self-contained cottage. Both are the kind of spots that invite toasty marshmallows, mulled wine, and starry night conversations.

And when it’s time to retreat indoors, the main bedroom’s ensuite delivers the ultimate cold-weather indulgence: a freestanding bath set beside a floor-to-ceiling window, where you can soak while taking in views of your private garden. Add in the home’s solar-powered efficiency and veggie garden for fresh winter produce, and you’ve got a sanctuary that supports both comfort and well-being.

Ready to spend your winter sipping locally grown red wine, hiking in the cool mountain air, or curling up fireside at home? This season is an opportunity to rediscover simple pleasures and embrace a quieter, richer kind of luxury. Buy your tickets today for your chance to win this charming Mater Prize Home lottery in Eumundi on the Sunshine Coast! Plus, for every ticket you purchase, you’re helping support the life-changing work at Mater by funding vital medical research and patient care.

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