Looking for something fun to do on your weekends or holidays but don’t want to do the same old things again? Living in Far North Queensland, we have so many beautiful places around us just begging to be explored!
All you’ll need is a car. Here are 3 of the best mini road trips you can take around FNQ.
1. The Daintree
Where rainforest meets the reef – check out the beautiful, blue-water beaches at Cape Tribulation. The Daintree Discovery Centre will take you high into the ancient rainforest and you can learn all about cassowaries and crocodiles (who frequent the Daintree). You won’t be able to resist a cone of the Daintree Ice Cream Company’s 100% natural ice-cream that incorporates local produce (like their wattleseed ice-cream!). There are plenty of great restaurants and cafes nestled in the rainforest, so just because you’re out of the city doesn’t mean there is any shortage of delicious food. If you’re game, take a Crocodile spotting tour (you’re guaranteed to see one!). Lastly, you can’t go home without a refreshing dip in the stunning Mossman Gorge.
2. The Tablelands
The Tablelands has so many great things to do and explore that you will definitely need more than one trip to tick it all off. For delicious, local produce head to Gallo Dairyland or Mungalli Creek Dairy for the tastiest cheese and dairy treats, Shaylee’s Strawberries is another great spot to pick your own punnett or enjoy a fresh and sweet dessert. If you’re after a refreshing dip, you can swim at Lake Eacham or Lake Tinaroo. If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, drive the Milla Milla Falls circuit which will take you to three of the Tablelands most stunning waterfalls. Yungaburra, Mareeba, Atherton and Malanda are all quirky towns that make up the Tablelands and have plenty on offer for every person. For history, check out the Tyrconnell Historic Gold Mine, Mt Mulligan Escarpment and the Curtain Fig Tree.
Tip: Take the Kuranda range to the tablelands for more fun activities!
3. Port Douglas
Port Douglas is one of FNQ’s busiest tourist towns and for good reason. The drive from Cairns alone is enough to get anyone there – with views of the endless stretch of ocean. Head straight to Port’s Macrossan Street for a shop and a bite to eat at one of their cute cafes or delicious restaurants. From there you can head to Four Mile Beach for a swim and a short hike up the stairs located on the beach will give you round 2 of breathtaking views of the ocean. If you happen to be there on a Sunday, check out the quirky and well-loved markets where local producers frequent with food, clothes, gifts, plants and everything in between. In the afternoon, head to the harbour to finish the day off with sunset drinks.
We have so many great places to explore on our very front door… enjoy and stay safe!
