Earlier this year, Booking.com published its list of the ten most welcoming places in Australia. Unlike other titles – like the most complained-about beach or the most expensive city – this is one any town would be proud of. The 2025 line-up was full of hidden gems, but it was a charming Sunshine Coast Hinterland town that took out the crown – so I went to see if it lived up to its reputation.
I must admit: I’d barely heard of Montville until earlier this year. But clearly those who know it love it, with the rural Queensland town claiming the highest share of glowing reviews in Booking.com's latest Traveller Review Awards.
Home to around 1,000 friendly locals, Montville is the perfect short break from Brisbane via a scenic 90-minute drive. I visited on a Sunday and managed to snag a park on its leafy Main Street, where you’ll find the main cluster of shops. A handful of people were out and about, but what struck me was how effortlessly locals and visitors meshed together – everyone just meandering, mingling and soaking up the laid-back vibe.
Montville’s Main Street is exactly what you picture when you think of a classic country town – a mix of gorgeous art galleries, boutique craft shops, charming antique stores and cosy cafés. When I visited on a Sunday, the town’s famous Clock Shop was closed, but I was warmly welcomed at other town favourites, including Tamborine Tea, Montville Woods Gallery, Fudgyboombahs, The Candle Shoppe and Witchscents Organics (yes, there’s an actual witch shop – and it’s just one of Montville’s many quirky delights). I particularly fell in love with The Candle and Quill Bookshop, a cosy nook that doubles as an espresso bar, and Benny The Beagle’s Books, a tucked-away treasure (around an unassuming corner) selling second-hand reads in exchange for belly rubs (and a few bucks too).
I also loved Montville’s old-school architecture, featuring a historic church, a wooden watermill and a classic red phone box. Local creativity spills out beyond the galleries too, with parks and paths showcasing fun sculptures and artworks. My favourite was a bicycle wrapped in a knitted ‘coat’. How adorable!
I only had an hour to spare in Montville, but it wasn’t nearly enough – especially with so many cute cafés calling my name. You can mingle with the locals at Little May Espresso, but if I’d had the time, I would’ve settled in for a big brekkie at The Edge Café, where you can soak in sweeping views of the valley beyond. Judging by the looks of the happy brunch crowd, I’d say the food and service are every bit as good as the scenery.
After exploring the main strip, I drove five minutes to Kondalilla National Park to explore the magical fairytale rainforest and 90-metre waterfall. It was the perfect finishing touch to the day, and cemented Montville’s spot on the list of Australia’s must-visit towns. Next time, I’ll definitely extend my welcome with a night or two at one of the region’s luxe rainforest eco-retreats, homely B’n’Bs, cute country cabins or mountain-view apartments. I reckon it’s time you go make friends with Montville too!