Taking a vacation in the artistic and eco-freindly town of Maleny

The saying, "Picture postcard perfect" describes Maleny, in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, perfectly. In fact, there are postcards of Maleny taken from the hills at the back of the town that make you question if such a beautiful place really exists. Well, it does. Maleny is in the Blackall Range overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains. At an elevation of about 1500 feet (450 meters) above sea level, it's a subtropical haven in tropical Queensland.

Once you've seen it for yourself, it will come as no surprise that tourism is the biggest industry in Maleny. It's easy to get to. Halfway between Brisbane and Noosa Heads, it's less than an hour's drive from either of these major centers, but it feels like it's in a magical world all its own. Initially, Maleny was a timber town. After the stands of trees were cut, it became predominantly a dairy town. After its idyllic location was discovered by people who wanted respite from the hustle and bustle of the big city, it became a refuge for those who prefer a slower pace of life.

If you wish to slow down and get back to nature, then you will find Maleny ideal for your needs. First take a while to get to know the locals in this friendly town. They will tell you the best spots to go and explore in and around the town.

If you are keen on hiking, mountain biking or just getting out in nature, then Maleny is ideal for you. For example, not far from town is Kondalilla National Park. Kondalilla is an aboriginal word meaning "rushing waters" and that is exactly what you can see at Kondalilla Falls, a precipitous 300 foot (90 meter) waterfall that plunges into the rainforest valley at the foot of the falls. On a warm day, there is nothing more refreshing than taking a swim in the rock pool at the head of the falls.

Then there are all the other towns and villages surrounding Maleny in the Blackall Range to discover. Each of them has its own unique flavor, but they all have one thing in common. This magnificent area attracts creative artists and artisans from all over Australia. Regardless of whether you're in Maleny, Montville or Kenilworth, you will discover interesting arts and crafts shops, fresh organic produce and scrumptious homemade meals. Kenilworth was voted the friendliest town in Queensland in the year 2000, but the same thing could be said of almost any of the villages and towns within the area as well.

Your Maleny accommodation will be an example of local craftsmanship. You won't be staying in a bland motel along the side of a noisy highway when you're in Maleny. In fact, you may end up staying in a luxuriously appointed treehouse overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains or in a luxurious cabin on a hill with your own private spa to enjoy. In addition to the locals' artistic eye, they are passionate environmentalists. Your accommodation will be immaculately maintained and will blend into the environment, making you feel completely at peace with the world, just as the locals seem to be.

Take a few days off, find Maleny Accomadation, things to do and other travel related information about the area on bookitnow.com.au. Or visit our Australia blog for more Australian holiday ideas.