How to experience the Daintree in luxury - from accommodation to adventures
Guide
By Kim Barnard
Have you ever dreamed of holidaying in the heart of a rainforest? Well, in the Daintree, you can. Located just an hour’s drive north of Port Douglas, Daintree is a World-Heritage listed wonder; it’s the oldest tropical rainforest in the world and home to one of the longest rivers on Australia’s east coast. With picture-perfect scenery and absolute tranquility at every turn, a trip to this destination is always a delight, but experiencing it in style will take it to the next level.
When it comes to exploring the Daintree, there’s so much magic to discover that it’s worthwhile carving out a few days. Covering Daintree luxury accommodation, things to do, and places to dine, this guide is all you need to have the indulgent trip of a lifetime.
Where to stay
Photo by @daintreeecolodge
Bunking somewhere that’s both lavish and practical will ensure your trip is dreamy and breezy. Daintree Ecolodge, nestled among the forest foliage, is the perfect base for you and your fellow travellers. Drift to sleep in the silence of a bayan (treehouse) and wake up to the sound of birds chirping. Treat yourself with a rejuvenating massage at the wellness spa or a dip in the onsite waterfall and pool (the waterfall was visited for thousands of years by Kuku Yalanji woman for its healing and spiritual powers).
If good food is your idea of luxury, add a hamper filled with local produce to your booking and make sure to dine at the Julaymba Restaurant, which serves up the very best Australian cuisine.
Ecolodge will be the perfect base for your days of luxe Daintree discovery.
Have a history lesson
Photo by Flames of the Forest via FB
A trip to the Daintree wouldn’t be complete without learning about the Kuku Yalanji people who once conserved the region. On Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 7:30pm to 10:30pm, Flames of the Forest run a captivating Aboriginal Cultural Experience that will leave you in utter awe. Hop on a return coach ride from your hotel, be guided into the middle of the rainforest, then sit down for an experience of a lifetime. Listen to two local Indigenous brothers share their remarkable culture through storytelling, didgeridoo playing and singing—all while digging into a seven-dish banquet in the company of other travellers.
Note: Flames of the Forest closes annually from mid-January to the beginning of April.
Embark on an all-day adventure
Photo by @downundertours
If you can pry yourself away from your Daintree luxury accommodation, head out for a fun-filled day with Down Under Tours. Their Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Mossman Tour is an excellent way to witness the best bits of the surrounding regions; your early wake up call (6:45am) will be worth it when you’re marvelling at the countless natural wonders on offer.
The tour involves a guided rainforest walk at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, a Daintree River cruise dedicated to the abundant flora and fauna, and a visit to Cape Tribulation Beach and Alexandra Lookout. Morning tea, a BBQ lunch (complete with Daintree tea) and ice cream with fruit from local orchards are all part of the package. (Gluten and dairy free ice cream is available on request).
See the Daintree from new heights
Now that you’ve explored the world’s oldest rainforest on ground level, why not take to the sky for a unique birds-eye view? Drive one hour south of your Daintree luxury accommodation to Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Cairns, hop on the skyrail destined for Kuranda, and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime ride. Ascend through rainforest canopies and descend to two natural gems—Red Peak and Barron Falls. Red Peak is one of the most ancient pockets of rainforest on earth, where unique plants and animals have survived the test of time; be wowed by the lush fern gardens, climbing palms, rare butterflies and birds. Barron Falls is a sacred landscape, known as Din Din to the Djabuganydji people; here, you’ll encounter rugged beauty and cultural history in one.
When you arrive at Kuranda, you’ll be greeted with a hive of activity; it’s a thriving village with a plethora of unique offerings. Browse the markets, visit a gallery adorned with local Indigenous art, cuddle a koala at the Koala Gardens, or satisfy your sweet tooth at the Honey House (they’ve been selling the best selection of North Queensland raw honey, fresh honeycomb and medicinal products since 1959).
Once you’ve explored this charming rainforest village, head back to Cairns by rail. From the Kuranda Scenic Railway, you’ll witness unsurpassed views of the rainforest, steep ravines and waterfalls. You’ll also get to drive through 15 tunnels and 37 bridges that hundreds of men built (along with the railway itself) between 1882 and 1891.
Want to see the Daintree from above without having to venture further afield? Helicopter Tours run stunning 30-minute helicopter flights above the rainforest, which include close-up encounters with the canopies and impeccable views of resident Daintree icons such as Mossman Gorge, the Alexander Range, Cow Bay and Daintree River. From beaches to reefs, you’ll see it all from the best seat in the house.
Indulge in local produce
If you’re a foodie who loves treating your taste buds to local flavours, the Daintree Food Trail will be right up your alley. Daintree is home to an eclectic mix of small farms, orchards, fisheries, growers and micro manufacturers, all slightly off the beaten track. This trail highlights and celebrates these secret places, by guiding you from one to another with time to stop and experience the delights at each.
From microgreens to gelato, chocolate to chorizo, and breadfruit to barramundi, follow this map for a day of delicious discovery.
Need more ideas for your Daintree trip? Check out this local guide for more inspiration.
You may also like
