A whole new region that is secluded from most, Far North Queensland feels like a very different kind of Australia. With ancient rainforests that sprawl across hectares of lush land, making its way down to greet the edges of the colourfully spectacular Great Barrier Reef, the sights and sounds to be experienced are unfathomable.
There are no words that can truly do justice to this slice of paradise, but to give you a hunch of the magnificence to expect, here are the top towns in Far North Queensland that you simply must visit.
5. Cooktown
Not your typical vacation destination, Cooktown offers a unique experience that goes beyond beach bumming and rainforest walking. Although you will still get to fit the two in while there!
This quaint, little town serves as the main access point and service space for Cape York. In fact, all roads lead to Cooktown. Whether you’re coming from Cairns via the Mulligan Highway or emerging from the 4WD path from the coastal Bloomfield Track, you’ll find yourself in this quaint town.
With a history so rich that dates back to the story of Captain James Cook alongside indigenous culture and evidence of gold rush glories, a true blue Australian experience awaits you in Cooktown. Indulge deeper into historical facts at the James Cook Museum followed by the Cooktown Historic Centre for further explorations.
And if you’re aching for some greenery, head to the botanical gardens where you’ll learn about the Australian native plants that dominate the region. A venture to the Grassy Hill Lookout will give you a great vantage point to set your eyes upon stunning rainforest landscapes backed by endless ocean views of the Great Barrier Reef.
If you’re aching for the beach, head to Elim Beach where soft white sands await you. Here, you’ll find unparalleled views of the Coloured Sand Cliffs backed by towering paper bark trees that offer you shade. Be amazed by the lines of hundreds of starfish and sea cucumbers that sprawl across the water’s edge. Please note that crocodiles do roam this area, so be cautious when exploring and do not go for a swim.
4. Port Douglas
A popular beachside resort town, Port Douglas has won the hearts of many thanks to beautiful beaches you can swim in, lovely cafes and awesome local markets to adventure.
It’s a place to relax and enjoy, while soaking up the best of the Great Barrier Reef. A visit here guarantees most of your time spent on the beach followed by a snorkel or dive to explore the abundant marine life.
When in Port Douglas, you mustn’t miss a visit to Flagstaff Hill Lookout for majestic, panoramic views of the rainforest-classed mountain ranges and Four Mile Beach.
3. Cairns
An adventure in Far North Queensland wouldn’t be complete without a stop by at Cairns – the capital of the region. It’s touristy fame has been won as a result of amazing snorkelling and diving expeditions into the Great Barrier Reef.
The Esplanade offers fun for everyone. Whether it’s a beautiful stroll to unwind while soaking up magnificent views of the ocean, or splashing fun in the water park, or a wander along the different cafes and shops by the waterfront on the marina, don’t miss a chance to have a great time at the Cairns Esplanade.
2. Kuranda
Situated in the Atherton Tablelands, Kuranda is a rainforest town that offers magnificently fresh produce and dairy that will have you salivating for more.
Somewhat a tourist hub, the Kuranda markets offer amazing local finds you won’t find anywhere outside of the Atherton Tablelands. For more adventure, head to Baron Falls via the Sky Rail which happens to be the World’s longest and most ecological cable car, spanning 7.5 kilometres over the forest. The route stops at Red Peak where you’ll be able to soak in the magnificent landscapes of rainforest wonder.
1. Weipa
Don’t restrict all of the exploration to the East of Far North Queensland, and head to the West for some amazing adventures too.
Weipa is a hidden gem of Far North Queensland, offering magnificent landscapes of rainforest and ocean views. It is a hot spot for fishing enthusiasts, with the trophy title of being the Barramundi Capital of Queensland. From cultural centres to eco tours, there’s plenty of things to do and places to explore in Weipa.
Great food makes for great holidays – and Weipa delivers in this arena. With magnificent establishments such as the Albatross Bay Resort that offer exceptional dining experiences by the waterfront, there is no better sense of top culinary delights backed by heartwarming local culture than here in Weipa.
Discover more about the Weipa experience by giving us a call on (07) 4090 6666.
Banner image credit: Beat Magazine
