Summer is when the rainforest comes to life in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef. Warm rains enhance the vibrant greens of the Wet Tropics, cassowaries emerge with their chicks, and waterholes offer an inviting place to cool off.
It’s the ideal time to slow down, enjoy nature and recharge by enjoying modern luxuries like secluded tree houses in the world’s oldest rainforest.
Surround yourself in the World-Heritage rainforest at Mist at Cape Tribulation where modern meets authentic fresh air. This luxury boutique accommodation has large outdoor decks with expansive views, king size beds and pillow menus, lavish bathrooms with walk-in rain showers and special catering options.
The newly renovated Lagoon Bayans at Daintree Ecolodge offer sustainable luxury in a breathtaking location. Rebalance your mind, body and soul at the Daintree Wellness Spa where treatments harness ancient traditions with wild-harvested, pure Australian botanicals.
The area’s Traditional Custodians, the Kuku Yalanji people, call the rainforest ‘Wawu-karrba’ which means ‘healing of the spirit’. The lodge’s private waterfall, which you can visit, has been used by generations of Kuku Yalanji women for healing and spiritual beliefs.
To learn more about the Kuku Yalanji people visit the Mossman Gorge Centre and catch the shuttle service to Mossman Gorge. Walk through the rainforest looking for electric blue Ulysses butterflies and Boyd’s forest dragons and then plunge into the chilly waters of the gorge.
The stories of the rainforest people are reflected in their art which can be seen at Janbal Gallery. Co-owner Brian ‘Binna’ Swindley shows you how to paint your own boomerang or canvas while sharing the stories of his mother, Janbal, whose works can be seen at the gallery bearing her traditional name.
The Daintree offers a variety of experiences to choose from and is home to a range of small farms, fisheries and micro-manufacturers, which can be explored on a Daintree Food Trail self-drive experience. The trail leads you from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation and introduces you to producers of tropical fruits, spices, tea, chocolate, barramundi and honey.
Along the way, visit Cape Trib Farm where fruit picking tours allow you to taste, touch, smell and enjoy the exotic fruit of the tropics. Try delicious chocolate pudding fruit, creamy mamey sapote and a fan favourite, breadfruit chips.
Indulge in a classical summer treat at Daintree Ice Cream Co’s where the homemade ice cream, gelatos and sorbets are made using classic artisan methods and working in harmony with the organically grown fruit.
Top your day off with a scenic helicopter flight to experience the rainforest, beaches, waterfalls, and Mossman River from above. GBR Helicopters offer a magical journey through the rainforest stopping for a swim and a gourmet hamper.
To truly understand the tropical plant, bird and animal life of the world’s oldest rainforest join FNQ Nature Tours. The small group and private tours include day and night rainforest walks spotting wildlife as well as special interest tours for birdwatching, conservation and photography.
For more information go to cairnsgreatbarrierreef.com
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