Maleny is a charming township on the southern edge of the Blackall Range and home to around 4700 people. At 436 metres above sea level, it enjoys wonderful views of the Glass House Mountains and to the coast.
Once covered by rainforest, the area's previous reliance on timber is evident in the street names — Maple, Coral, Cedar, Myrtle and Macadamia. The macadamia nut — known locally as the Queensland nut — is important to the local economy, along with fruit cultivation, small crops and dairy farming.
Maleny has attracted a profusion of sculptors, painters, potters, writers, musicians and craftspeople.
Five kilometres east of the town and along a secluded lane is The Tamarind, five beautiful bungalows on a rural property surrounded by rainforest and overlooking Gardner's Falls. The retreat was created for couples and it offers privacy and comfort in a delightful rural environment.
The bungalows have a sophisticated contemporary feel, and are warm and inviting. Each has a balcony, relaxation deck with table, chairs, steamer lounge and barbecue.
Features include king-size beds, double spas, separate showers, wood-burning fireplaces, air conditioning, an entertainment unit, small kitchen with bar fridge, fresh flowers and fruit and delicious breakfast is delivered each day.
For those who love good food, the Tamarind Cookery Retreat has hands-on classes where up to eight people learn the intricacies of Thai cuisine. Owner/chef Paul Blain has a great understanding of ingredients, flavour balance and techniques of the popular cuisine and imparts his knowledge in a purpose-built commercial kitchen.
Coffee is served as you ponder the recipes and learn some of the fundamentals before food preparation. There is much chopping, pounding and grinding before the rewarding end result, and it's great fun.
Weekend packages include dinner on Saturday in the dining room/outdoor pavilion. On cooking class weekends, dinner is served on Friday. The dining area is fully licensed.
For those who fancy going further afield, the Hinterland has some wonderful restaurants and The Tamarind staff will happily make recommendations.
Solitair Helicopters provide flights for business and leisure and are very flexible, tailoring flights to meet passengers' needs. The Tamarind has its own heli-pad, so why not make your visit there extra luxurious and chopper your way from there.
