Explore – Tropical North Queensland

Explore - Tropical North Queensland

Imagine reef and rainforest ringed by the red dirt of the outback. Tropical North Queensland is breathtaking. The tropical haven boasts some of the most sensational scenery in Australia not to mention the fantastic food. There are options to suit every family and style of travel.

Day One

Prepare yourself for days of endless sunshine in this lush paradise.

First stop after you touch down in Cairns is the local car hire for your drive north to Port Douglas but before you head to your hotel de jour, you’ll need to go in the other direction for an unmissable treat. A short 15 minutes from the airport, you’ll find the Skyrail, a 90 minute cable car journey over the Daintree Rainforest.

Then head to Frogs Restaurant, a great spot, famous for its Kaffir & Lime Salt and Pepper Calamari Salad. Make your way back via the Kuranda Scenic Railway one of the most unique rail journeys in the world, you’ll pass by spectacular waterfalls and through the stunning Barron Gorge.

Then pile into your rental for a 45 minute drive to Port Douglas for your two night stay at Peppers Beach Club. The rooms are inviting and generous in side. Start the evening with a stroll along Macrossan Street, Port Douglas’ hub of restaurants, cafes and shopping.

Finish your stroll with dinner at On The Inlet. The best seafood joint in town, don’t go past the mud crap Singapore style.

Day Two

Today is a day for exploring the world famous Great Barrier Reef! It will be an early start today, so grab a quick bite at Hi-Tide Cafe before heading out on a reef cruise operated by Silverseries Cruises.

One of only two companies who travel to the outer reef, and the only company offering 3 site visits in the one cruise. Since you’re visiting the outer reef, you’re less likely to be overrun with other cruise companies, and you’re more likely to see undisturbed wildlife and coral reefs. Snorkel, or take a PADI certified diving course on board.

You’ll be a bit tuckered out after your day of diving, so once you arrive back in Port Douglas, head back to the Beach Club and chill out by the pool. For dinner, Salsa Bar & Grill, where the locals go, again seafood is the menu highlight.

Day Three

Today, you’re checking out of Port Douglas and heading down to Cairns. Before making the 90 minute drive, head out to Mossman Gorge for a different Daintree perspective.

Located 20 minutes from Port Douglas, it is the only place in the Daintree where you can get a taste of the lives, culture and beliefs of Australia’s Indigenous population and their connection to the natural environment. Join in on a Dreamtime walk for a 90 minute journey.

After that it is time to drive down to Cairns! There are a bunch of great stops along the way including Nu Nu in Palm Cove for lunch, we suggest BBQ Tiger Prawns.

Your accommodation is the Shangri-La on the Marina, a beautiful resort walking distance to the CBD. Here you’ll enjoy a complimentary room upgrade, early check-in / late check-out, breakfast daily and a USD100 resort credit, thanks to Frontier Travel’s relationship with The Luxury Circle.

Tonight, you’re in for a treat, head to the Night Markets for a wide array of local products and trinkets, the rest your feet at Ochre on the waterfront, a fabulous seafood tapas joint .

Day Four

Today is active day. Check out of your accommodation and jump into your private 4WD vehicle for the 3 hour journey out to Mount Mulligan Lodge.

Situated on a private 28,000 hectare property 150kms north west of Cairns, this secluded property only accommodates up to 16 guests at a time, and is set on a working cattle station.

Mt Mulligan is all-inclusive, so make sure you stop off at the dining room and fill up on lunch.

Then it is time to start chasing your afternoon activity.. options include bird watching, paddle boarding or kayaking at your own pace, or try your hand at cattle mustering. Tonight, it is dinner under the stars – since you’re far outside the city, the sky will light up like a backlit canopy with holes punched in it. Make sure to use the provided telescopes and binoculars for the full experience!

Day Five

On the itinerary today, more of what this beautiful property has to offer. We suggest a day trip out to the Old Township of Mount Mulligan

Once a bustling coal mining town, it’s now a ghost town which was abandoned in 1958 and offers a great insight into how coal mines were operated in at the time. The old township and the mine can be explored on foot, and by ATV. Close-by, the Tyrconnell Gold Mine is much the same as it was in its heyday, and offers an uncompromised look into the history of gold mining in the area.

Tonight, enjoy a few sundowners at the Sunset Bar on property, before your included dinner. The restaurant is incredible and showcases the local produce including a macaroon made from vitamin c packed green ants. I dare you.

Day Six

Today is the day to head home!

You’ll check out of your accommodation and be taken back to Cairns Airport by helicopter, where you’ll be able to connect onto your flight home.

To book your stay in Tropical North Queensland, speak to a consultant or discover more about our exclusive Frontier Hotels program, select from an option below.

Explore the Frontier Collection

Today is your last day out of the slopes! You’ll be heading over to Cardrona Mountain, which is around half an hour away from Wanaka. Fuel up for your day out at your hotel before being picked up for your transfer over to the mountain.