IMAGES: GETTY; 4CORNERS
SMART TRAVELLER
FAMI LY
ESCAPE TO THE WILD
Northern Queensland’s rainforest and reef off er an Australian family adventure like no other
Kuranda Getting to the arts and crafts hub of Kuranda, a mountain town surrounded by rainforest, is half the fun for families. Departing from Cairns, the 4.7-mile Skyrail cable car skims over the tropical canopy of the oldest rainforest on the planet, with opportunities to spy tree kangaroos, and spectacular views of the mountains and ocean. Kuranda itself has heritage markets, walking trails and a butterfl y sanctuary to explore. For the return journey to Cairns, board the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Built in the late 19th century, the train winds its way back down to sea level through the forest, passing waterfalls and gorges.
skyrail.com.au ksr.com.au tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
Great Barrier Reef The laid-back town of Port Douglas — an hour’s drive north of Cairns along the coastal highway — is a good jumping-off point for family tours of the reef. The Low Isles coral cays are an easier outing for smaller children, but older kids should head to the outer reef for snorkelling with clearer waters, more varied sea life and rich coral gardens. Beyond the shoals of multicoloured fi sh, families might spy sea turtles, giant clams and reef sharks. Try Sailaway, which runs boat tours accompanied by marine biologists. All ages are catered for, as long as children can swim.
sailawayportdouglas.com
Mossman Gorge For a deeper understanding of the region, visit this spectacular and accessible pocket of the Daintree National Park, owned and managed by the Kuku Yalanji community. The Cultural Centre off ers self-guided walks, but for a more intimate connection with the land and Indigenous culture, take a guided Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk through the rainforest to hear the stories of the Aboriginal people who have lived here for thousands of years. Kids will also learn about the area’s cassowaries — the third-largest bird in the world — and the useful properties of rainforest plants.
mossmangorge.com.au
Cape Tribulation This coastal strip 60 miles north of Cairns is where northern Queensland starts to get really wild. Take a zero-emission boat cruise on the Daintree River with small operator Solar Whisper in search of ‘salties’ — Australia’s giant saltwater crocodiles. Boats keep a safe distance and local guides will also scan the rainforest waterways for birds, bats, snakes and frogs. Other highlights include the Daintree Discovery Centre’s 36ft-high walkway, and the Treetops Adventure at Cape Tribulation — about as far north as you can drive without a 4WD — which off ers a two-hour ziplining tour 50 feet above ground through the forest. It’s suitable for kids as young as three.
solarwhisper.com
discoverthedaintree.com
treetopsadventure.com.au
Boardwalks make it easy to explore the Daintree with kids From top: Cape Tribulation has gloriously deserted beaches; a clownfish hiding in an anemone on the Great Barrier Reef
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NATIONALGEOGRAPHIC.COM/TRAVEL
Where to stay Within easy walking distance of almost everything in Cairns, Crystalbrook Bailey has rooms and apartments ideal for family stays. The two-bedroom units come with a lounge area and kitchen, while the outdoor swimming pool provides a welcome respite after days spent exploring. The city’s Esplanade, with its playgrounds, parklands and restaurants, is just a few minutes away, as is Cairns’ popular Night Markets for street food. From A$185 (£98), room only.
crystalbrookcollection.com/bailey PAT RIDDELL
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