Maleny attraction wins recognition by Tripadvisor
Maleny Botanic Gardens’ General Manager, Verena Olesch
by Tanya Outridge
What began as a massive garden on an old cattle property in Maleny has become a huge tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all around the world.
And now Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World has been recognised in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice, ‘Best of the Best 2024’ awards, and ranked number 5 for Things To Do in Queensland.
“This news came completely out of the blue for us and we are absolutely thrilled with this award,” said General Manager, Verena Olesch.
“And then we found out that we’ve also been awarded the Travellers’ Choice Awards ‘Best of the Best’ for Top Attractions in Australia, coming in at number 5. We were the only ones in Queensland. It is enormously gratifying for our team.”
This prestigious award is given to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.
“We really don’t have any influence when it comes to Tripadvisor, but I think our guests enjoy the experience we have created here because it is so interactive, and visually very beautiful. I think that people are increasingly looking for experiences in nature that are enriching to the senses. We certainly provide that.”
Overlooking the Glasshouse Mountains, the 23 acres of manicured gardens include everything from stunning roses, to natives and bush tucker. But the birds are the real stars of the show.
“We now have 5 walk-through aviaries with hundreds of birds from 63 countries flying freely, squawking, interacting with guests and singing to their heart’s content,” she said.
“Many people are not aware that this is a sanctuary for birds and many of our birds have come to us via the rescue network, from deceased estates and a range of other ways. We found that a lot of people got birds during COVID, and now find that they are not equipped to provide them with the care they need. Some species can live up to 80 years. That is a huge commitment.”
As well as birds, there are also farm friends at the gardens, and many beautiful places to picnic and hold special events, including weddings.
“We can’t thank our wonderful guests enough for taking the time to take and share photos, and write a review,” said Verena.
“And also a huge and heartfelt thank you to our amazing team for delivering an exceptional experience.”
Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World is at 233 Maleny Stanley River Road, Maleny and is open 7 days a week, 364 days a year. Find out more about this local treasure at www.malenybotanicgardens.com.au