Amazing Atherton Tablelands
For a tranquil rural getaway complete with country charm and stunning scenery,
Atherton Tablelands makes an ideal destination. This lush green plateau is just an hour’s drive up the ranges west of
Cairns, with cascading waterfalls, World Heritage rainforests, wildlife, mountain ranges and crater lakes. The historic country towns have beds of blooming flowers, comfy benches in the main streets and shop owners that know their customers by first name.
You’ll be spoiled for choice for things to see and do, with barramundi fishing, canoeing and waterskiing at Lake Tinaroo, scenic walking tracks to explore, birdwatching and night canoeing, or check out some of the region’s stunning natural attractions. The volcanic crater lakes at Barrine and
Eacham and the huge Mt Hypipamee Crater are a must-see, and if you’re lucky enough, you can even spot the
solitary tree kangaroo or platypus. There are dramatic waterfalls to visit including Mungalli, Malanda Falls, Souita, Pepina, Ellinjaa, Zillie, Dinner Falls and Little Millstream, to name a few. Windy Hill near
Ravenshoe is another popular attraction with the large power generating wind turbines dotted over the hills – an eerie site on a misty morning.
On the drive to historic
Yungaburra from
Atherton you’ll see the Seven Sisters - a series of extinct volcanoes. The Curtain Fig Tree is next on the list, located just a few minutes before the town. It would have to be one of the most visited trees in the world and is an amazing site to behold. A platypus viewing platform is located on the river on the entrance to Yungaburra, and a walk winds its way through the edge of the rainforest and parkland.
Lake Tinaroo is a well known tourist destination and famous for its barramundi fishing. There is no closed season (although you need a permit to fish the lake), and the barramundi and sweet tasting Red Claw can be caught here all year round.
The town of Herberton is steeped in mining history and has a wonderful collection of little shops, an art gallery and a photographic museum. Malanda is home to the famous Majestic Theatre. Built in the 1920s, the Majestic is Australia’s oldest operating picture theatre and still has the original canvas seats. You can take along your favourite pillow and blanket, and settle in for the double screenings.
Getting There
Access to the Atherton Tablelands is via the Kennedy Highway from Mt Garnet, the Palmerston Highway from Innisfail, the Gillies Highway near Gordonvale, the Kuranda Range from Smithfield 
and the Rex Range near Port Douglas.
Accommodation
Activities and Attractions
Useful Links
Story and images courtesy of Atherton Tablelands Information Centre