Rising dramatically out of the flat coastal area, you will notice the sheer wonder and beauty of the Glass House Mountains.
Surrounded by pineapple and eucalyptus plantations, the Glass House Mountains are packed with fantastic outdoor activities to enjoy, and they are a must-see on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
For those who love photography moments, relaxing, soaking up fresh, open-air, and basically enjoying everything that Mother Nature has to offer, the Glass House Mountains should be on your Sunshine Coast visit list, for sure.
The Glass House Mountains are 16 volcanic structures that rise suddenly from the landscape. This is what gives them such a dramatic appearance, and it’s certainly one for the camera collection.
You can visit for the day or camp underneath the stars and really take in the atmosphere! Dating back 25-27 million years, you’re sure to feel this stunning area’s energy, wonder, and nature, and all within some fantastic Sunshine Coast weather too!
Despite what you might think, the Glass House Mountains are actually very accessible. We have a fabulous full-day tour of the Glasshouse mountains that will give you front-row seats to view this Heritage Listed Sunshine Coast attraction.
You can also visit the area from Brisbane, as it’s just a short drive along the Sunshine Coast, heading inland from the stunning beaches of the area and along the famous Steve Irwin Way.
As you reach the Glass House mountains, remember that the temperature is likely to be just slightly cooler, as we’re dealing with altitude and inland areas.
Around 25-27 million years ago, a huge volcanic eruption took place, which laid the foundation for the Glass House mountains we see today. This was caused by volcanic activity that resulted in the huge uprising of lava right from the centre of the Earth. The lava then cooled and formed the rocky monoliths we gaze at in wonder.
As with any former volcanic and natural area, you can see countless types of flora and fauna around this area. When you head off walking on one of the many marked trails, you’ll be able to spot countless colourful flowers, as well as stunning views over the landscape.
To add to the mysticism of the region, there is a famous Aboriginal legend about the Glass House mountains themselves. And visiting this area in the Sunshine Coast hinterland will really bring the story to life for you.
It is said that Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Beerwah, two of the highest peaks, had eight children; Mount Coonowrin was the elder of the children (standing at 377m high and the most dramatic in the appearance of all the mountains), with twins Mount Tunbubudla, and the remaining children, Mount Coochin, Mount Ngungun, Mount Tibberoowuccum, Mount Miketeebumulgrai, and Mount Elimbah.
Mount Tibrogargan, the father of the children, was concerned that the ocean level was rising. He told his eldest son (Mount Coonowrin) to help his pregnant mother (Mount Beerwah) and gather his other siblings to run as fast as they could away from the rising sea levels. However, Mount Coonowrin was scared and ran away, causing his father to become angry and run after him. When he found him, he beat him with a club, and his neck became out of shape.
The seas eventually subsided and the family returned back to their home on the plains. But Mount Coonowrin was tested by his friends about his neck and instantly regretted the way he had acted. He asked his father for forgiveness, but his father cried in shame.
Mount Coonowrin then went to his siblings to ask for forgiveness, but they, too, cried in shame. The legend says that this is why the Glass House Mountains area is surrounded by so many small streams of water.
Finally, his father asked why he hadn’t helped his mother (Mount Beerwah), and Coonowrin said that he felt she could look after herself, as he did not know she was pregnant.
Mount Tibrogargan disowned his son, and even to this day, he gazes out to sea, refusing to look over at his son, who hangs his neck and cries.
This beautiful and sad tale is what mystifies and adds extra interest to the Glass House Mountains. Your guide will be able to point out the various characters in the legend as you visit.
When you visit the Sunshine Coast in south east Queensland, you’ll be overwhelmed with activities to do and attractions to enjoy. But out of all the things to do on the Sunshine Coast, visiting the Glass House Mountains national park should certainly be on your list.
The National Park Glass House Mountains is packed with outdoor adventures for the family to enjoy. You can head out bushwalking, take a picnic under the shade of the trees, and drive around the national park. You can also check out the stunning panoramas, rock climb, abseil, walk on the walking tracks connecting the mountains or hike on the many hiking trails.
Put simply, this national park located in Australia’s east coast is a tourist attraction with a big difference. Why? Because you’re at the mercy of nature. You won’t fail to be awe-struck by the sights before you.
When visiting the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, be sure to factor in some time in the Glass House Mountains National Park. Whether you stay for the day or decide to camp out at night is purely a personal choice.
There are many activities on offer, no matter whether you’re travelling with children or not. And you’re sure to fill up that camera memory card with lasting memories from your visit.
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