Montville, Queensland

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Posted 2014-02-13 by Sharon Higson ⇒ follow

Behind you the towering apartment buildings of the Sunshine coast rise towards the sky. The ocean sparkles in the sun as you ascend Highway 23, making your way inland to your destination. You climb higher and see farms and houses nestled and sprawled cozily throughout the valley below.

You pass a few houses that sit along the ridge, their views spectacular, as you enter the town of Montville.

The town has a diverse history that started back in the 1880's. Timber getting was the first industry followed by farming and dairy in its early beginnings. The first school was set up in 1896 and it wasn't until the 1970's that the highway brought tourism to the town.

Historical cottages, with character and charm, line the main street. All are well kept and you can see the pride the town shows in its attention to details. The pavers that line the sidewalks feature artistic touches showcasing information regarding endangered creatures and plants. Benches hewn from native trees and stone are scattered along the way inviting you to take advantage as you stroll the numerous gift shops.

The shop owners themselves, inhabitants of the town, all hold a strong sense of community and support each other in their businesses. The street lights and garbage receptacles marry together with the period style of the town.

Today you can wander main street from end to end and back again, in search of that special gift for the kids, your aunt, even your, hard to buy for, Dad.

There is wood carved furniture, bowls and boxes, shaped and polished so that they gleam. There are crafts, toys, blown glass, beeswax candles and soothing wind chimes. Leather goods and jewelry are crafted by skilled hands. There are books, oils, crystals and music. There is even homemade fudge to tempt your taste buds.

The designer clothing stores are numerous, well priced and the colours and patterns catch your eyes. The Opal shop is a gem to wander through.

Nature's Edge Photography is a must see. Stunning images taken by the owner, Andrew Goodall, await you. Each photo is a memory for him, unaltered by anything. Images of all sizes have created post cards and book marks. Andrew offers workshops and loves to chat with those interested in his work.

The Main Street Gallery is opened for business daily from 10:00am and showcases the intricate works of artist, Christopher Pope, who specializes in the delicate detailing of Australian birds.

The Bower Bird has an eclectic range of gifts from garden wall plaques, compasses, Tiffany lamps, clocks, jewelry, glass art just to name a few. You could spend hours browsing.

You can rest before carrying on and what better way to do that than to make your way to one of the charming, jaw dropping, view inspired restaurants. You get the panorama from The Edge or a peak here and there from the Poet's Café. Maybe live music is more your thing and you will want to dine at Misty's, iconic in Montville.