Visit Sunshine Coast has another claim to fame—its hinterland has been confirmed as Australia’s second Dark Sky Reserve.
To help agents make the most of this new selling point, the tourism body has compiled some tips.
Sunshine Coast Stargazing has launched a 90-minute stargazing experience, from AUD160 per person. The guided tour includes astronomy, astrophotography, storytelling and mindfulness, as well as tea, coffee and treats. See HERE.
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat’s Starstruck package, combines the aforementioned stargazing experience with two nights’ accommodation, daily breakfast, a bottle of sparkling wine, a local cheese platter and a gourmet BBQ hamper. Prices for this start at AUD2100 per couple. See more HERE.
Also worth a mention is Night Sky Journeys with Mystic Mountain Tours, where astronomers take guests to some of the best stargazing vantage points across The Hinterland, this available seasonally until Oct, priced from AUD150pp. See details HERE.
For stargazing that doesn’t actually involve going outside, or even leaving your bed, there’s The Magical Dome at Petrichor Estate. The clear dome offers uninterrupted views of the night sky. Visit Sunshine Coast describes it as offering a ‘magical experience from dusk through to dawn’. Check it out HERE.
An honorable mention also goes to Maleny Observatory and Mapleton Observatory, which offer regular public astronomy sessions during the year, while clients keen to explore on their own can head to Balmoral Ridge Lookout, Howells Knob Lookout, Isaac Moore Park, Little Yabba Rest Area, Pioneer Park, Russell Family Park and Tete Park.
See more on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Dark Sky Reserve, HERE.
