Just a short drive from Rosecliffe Farm Cottages, the Noosa Botanic Gardens sit on the peaceful shores of Lake Macdonald, near Cooroy, eight hectares of native and exotic plantings that make for one of the loveliest free days out in the Hinterland.
Wander the graded pathways past a lily pond, fern house, Zen garden and open-air bush chapel, or let the kids loose on the open lawns and dinosaur dig play area while you keep an eye out for whip birds, fruit doves, dragonflies and turtles along the water's edge. It's one of the best birdwatching spots in the region.
The showstopper is the Grecian-style amphitheatre overlooking the lake, a stunning circular stone venue that hosts events throughout the year, including the much-loved Noosa Festival of Water each June, a free, family-friendly celebration of the region's waterways with live entertainment, guided garden walks and hands-on activities for the kids.
Bring a picnic rug or make use of the tables, shelters and electric BBQs on the foreshore, and take your time, the gardens are open 24 hours a day, entry is completely free, and leashed dogs are welcome.
It's an easy, relaxed way to spend a morning or afternoon, whether you're travelling with kids or just want a quiet wander among the trees.
Visiting Noosa Botanic Garden can be perfectly paired with a visit to Cooroy.
