Just to the west of Cairns lie the lush, cool Atherton Tablelands (Cairns Highlands). Lush vegetation, volcanic lakes and spectacular waterfalls are just a few of the reasons the ‘Tablelands’ are a popular destination for tourists. Visit the famous Kuranda markets, try some fantastic local produce or explore rainforest walks, historic towns, waterfalls and crater lakes . Many tours to the tablelands leave from Cairns, you can also go by the Kuranda Scenic Rail or Skyrail.
The Outback and Gulf Savannah is some of the norths most remote country, stretching on to the Northern Territory border.
Home to vast cattle stations, historic old gold towns, rugged gorges, caves and rock formations as well as the waters of the Gulf of Carpenteria – you can experience some fantastic seasonal fishing.
Mt Surprise has a wealth of history, natural beauty and is known for its fantastic gems – visit Mt Surprise Gems, fossick, see and purchase local gemstones and enjoy a meal at the licensed cafe. See the stars from the Chillagoe Observatory’s fully equipped dome and two telescopes – the Eco Lodge offers great accommodation. Cobbold Gorge (only 55 mins south west of Forsayth) has fantastic scenery and excellent facilities for travellers to the Savannah Country. Drop in to the historic Einasleigh Hotel, a genuine Outback Pub experience.
Situated west of the Newcastle Range is Georgetown, an intersection point for all roads approaching the Gulf Savannah region from the east with the exception of the Chillagoe to Normanton/Karumba route. Georgetown is a major point for touring circuits to the south and east which direct visitors through spectacular scenic and historic points of interest. Multi award winning TerrEstrial in Georgetown houses a large mineral display and is also an accredited visitor information centre with internet access. Croydon’s colonial style buildings and heritage listed sites give this town real character, a great hotel, cafe and fascinating general store/museum that is free for visitors make it an excellent stop off point.
Normanton, home to the ‘Big Barra’ has a unique flavour that is enriched by its diverse population and colonial history that has seen both boom and bust years. Karumba offers a fantastic ‘outback-by-the-sea experience’, enjoy an adventure with the amazing Croc and Crab Tours. Call into the Barramundi Discovery Centre to see, touch and feed barramundi. You can stay in the multi-award winning End of the Road Motel at Karumba Point, enjoy a ‘coldie’ at the Sunset Tavern – you will never forget the sunsets at Karumba!
Drive yourself or journey on the historic Savannahlander Train departing from Cairns for a four-day adventure through this fascinating region of North Queensland.