Cairns
Cairns is the perfect tropical paradise which over the years has become the hub for travellers to explore all this region has to offer. Served by Cairns International Airport, this gateway provides easy access to the region and the famous Great Barrier Reef.
Also within easy reach are locations such as Kuranda, the Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas, and Mossman, as well as the famed wonders of the Daintree rainforests of Cape Tribulation.
Running alongside the waterfront, Cairns Esplanade is the life blood of this city. It boasts a multitude of restaurants and nightlife and at its heart lies the Esplanade Lagoon, a swimming pool which more than makes up for the city’s lack of beach.
If it’s beaches you’re after, then you don’t have to look far. Driving north out of Cairns you’ll find many perfect spots including Trinity Beach, Holloways Beach, Kewarra Beach, Palm Cove, and Ellis Beach. Get an early start if you want to get some great shots, shooting the sunrise at Palm Cove is a must.
Kuranda
Thirty minutes’ drive from Cairns is the picturesque village of Kuranda. This unique and secluded town is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and is a key destination for many tourists who visit the region for its hidden beauty and its famous markets.
Many travellers choose to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the mountaintop village, and many more the Rainforest Cableway. From the cableway, travellers can experience panoramic views over one of the oldest rainforests in the world and catch a glimpse of the spectacular Barron Falls.
Fitzroy Island
A forty-five-minute ferry ride from Cairns will get you to the island paradise of Fitzroy Island. This tropical haven of white sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters and lush forests is a popular tourist attraction and it’s not hard to see why.
Enjoy time snorkelling, diving, trail walking and simply relaxing on the beach. Make sure you make the short walk around from the main beach to Nudey beach, you won’t be disappointed!
Atherton Tablelands
Inland from Cairns is the fertile plateau of the Atherton Tablelands. This region is dominated by tropical rainforests and rivers which wind their way through the mountaintops.
Hidden within the plateau are many waterfalls, including the spectacular torrents of Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls. Perhaps the most well-known is Millaa Millaa Falls, this picture-perfect falls is a great place to picnic and cool off on a hot day.
Port Douglas
Port Douglas is a popular resort town about one hours drive north of Cairns. This wonderful town has a laidback attitude where you can take a stroll down the palm fringed Four Mile Beach or dine at one of the towns many chic cafes and restaurants.
It’s a great place to base yourself to visit the two UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The amazing Mossman Gorge is a mere stone through away.
Mossman
Mossman is situated about one hours drive north of Cairns and is the regions sugar cane capitol. Surrounded by fields if tall green cane and the nearby mountains of Mount Lewis National Park, the wide tree lined streets make Mossman such a picturesque little town.
Five minutes out of town you’ll find the natural beauty of tropical Mossman Gorge. Wander through the ancient rainforest, part of the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park, and marvel at the amazing array of plants and trees.
Walk the loop trail (about 3km) which takes you past beautiful boulder strewn streams, giant fig trees and along the Mossman River where you can take a refreshing dip in one of its many waterholes.
Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is a truly unique place where two UNESCO World Heritage listed sites can be found, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. This tropical haven spans mountainous rainforests, spectacular gorges, and golden beaches which an abundance of flora and fauna call home.
Home to the Kuku Yalanji People, Cape Tribulation is a place of extensive spiritual significance and natural beauty. For those seeking to witness the true wonders of Far North Queensland Cape Tribulation is the place to be.