Glass House Mountains

Travel Guide

Glass House Mountains
Glasshouse Mountains National Park showing tranquil scenes
Glass House Mountains
Glass House Mountains
Glasshouse Mountains National Park featuring mountains and forests

Sweeping views, scenic walking trails and stunning natural beauty make these ancient volcanic peaks one of the Sunshine Coast’s most fascinating spectacles. 

The Glass House Mountains are a collection of 12 volcanic crags that rise up dramatically from the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Surrounded by pineapple plantations, pine forests and gum trees, the mountains have an aura of mystique that makes them one of Australia’s most intriguing landmarks. Hike through this stunning landscape, climb one of the peaks or enjoy a relaxing picnic in the national park.

These mountains were originally formed as molten lava cooled in the cores of volcanoes around 26 million years ago. Explore the traditional lands of the Gubbi Gubbi people, where the Glass House Mountains are located. Discover Aboriginal Dreaming legends that speak of the peaks as a family of mountain spirits. The “glasshouse” name of the mountains came from Captain James Cook who saw the majestic peaks as was sailing along the Queensland coast in 1770. The shape of the mountains reminded the explorer of the huge glass furnaces (glasshouses) back in his native Yorkshire.

Take a leisurely drive through the Glass House Mountains National Park and stop at one of the many picturesque lookouts along the way. If you are feeling energetic, explore the network of hiking trails or spend a few hours climbing the steep slope of Mount Tibrogargan. Experienced climbers should put aside a half day to tackle Mount Beerwah. You can also abseil down some of the cliffs.

Rent a bicycle and ride through Beerburrum State Forest or hike up Wild Horse Mountain to experience 360-degree views of the stunning Pumicestone Passage, the Glass House Mountains and the surrounding coastal plains. Visit the Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre to find all the information you will need for your adventure. The centre has four multimedia kiosks and interactive activities for children. 

The Glass House Mountains are about a 1-hour drive north of Brisbane. Divert off the Bruce Highway onto Steve Irwin Way to wind through dense forests and see close-up views of the peaks. Despite being a short drive from Brisbane, the beautiful Glass House Mountains feel a world away from city life.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG
4 out of 5
42 First Avenue and Fairway Drive, Maroochydore, QLD
The price is S$162 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
S$162
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Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast ...
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Reviewed on 9 Jul, 2025

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast by IHG
Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
4.5 out of 5
Cnr Mooloolaba Esplanade & Venning St, Mooloolaba, QLD
The price is S$260 per night from 20 Jul to 21 Jul
S$260
20 Jul - 21 Jul
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Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free parking, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
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Great value and location
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Reviewed on 1 Jul, 2025

Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort
Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort
4 out of 5
270 Ocean Drive, Sunshine Coast, Twin Waters, QLD
The price is S$176 per night from 11 Aug to 12 Aug
S$176
11 Aug - 12 Aug
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Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale, and room service. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,004 reviews)
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Reviewed on 11 Jul, 2025

Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
4.5 out of 5
Cnr Mooloolaba Esplanade & Venning St, Mooloolaba, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free parking, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,641 reviews)
Great value and location
"Amazing service and environment."

Reviewed on 1 Jul, 2025

Mantra Mooloolaba Beach
Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort
Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort
4.5 out of 5
2 Landsborough Parade, Golden Beach, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
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Reviewed on 9 Jul, 2025

Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort
Landmark Resort
Landmark Resort
4 out of 5
11 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba, QLD
Stay at this 4-star spa aparthotel in Sunshine Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,013 reviews)
"It’s location is its greatest asset, it is getting older but is still a nice place to stay"

Reviewed on 13 Jul, 2025

Landmark Resort
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