Tablelands and Paronella Park Eco Day Tour
Discover rainforest waterfalls, heritage towns, and historic Paronella Park on a full-day Atherton Tablelands tour showcasing nature, culture, and breathtaking tropical scenery.
Journey through the heart of Tropical North Queensland on a full-day exploration of the Atherton Tablelands and Paronella Park - a tour that beautifully blends natural wonder, history, and culture.
Departing Cairns, your adventure begins with scenic views of Walsh's Pyramid, one of the world's largest natural pyramids, before ascending into the cool, green heights of the Tablelands. Travel along the winding Gillies Highway, framed by towering rainforest giants, and stop at Heales Lookout for breathtaking views over the valley and out to the Coral Sea.
At Lake Barrine, enjoy a guided walk through ancient rainforest, home to 1,000-year-old Kauri Pines, before indulging in a traditional Devonshire Tea of freshly baked scones, local jam, and cream. Continue to Yungaburra, a charming heritage town filled with history, and visit the iconic Curtain Fig Tree, a 45-metre-tall natural masterpiece draped in cascading vines.
Pass through the rolling pastures of Malanda, dotted with heritage buildings and lush farmland, before arriving at the famous Millaa Millaa Falls. Take a dip beneath the cascading 20-metre waterfall or simply soak in the serene rainforest atmosphere.
Descending from the Tablelands, travel through the traditional lands of the Mamu people to Paronella Park, a National Trust-listed treasure inspired by the dream of Spanish immigrant José Paronella. Explore this romantic castle ruin surrounded by waterfalls, tropical gardens, and timeless architecture. Your guided tour reveals the inspiring history behind this heritage-listed landmark, followed by free time to wander the lush grounds, capture stunning photos, and cross the Mena Creek suspension bridge.
Before returning to Cairns, visit a local banana farm or stop for a refreshing swim at Babinda Boulders, a sacred Aboriginal site where crystal-clear waters wind between striking granite formations beneath the peaks of Queensland's highest mountains.
By day's end, you'll have experienced the very best of the Tablelands - from rainforest to reef, waterfalls to castles - a journey rich in beauty, history, and heart.
- Devonshire Morning Tea: Scones and tea/coffee at Lake Barrine Teahouse
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Paronella Park priority entry, 30-minute guided tour and free time to explore
- Return hotel transfers, Cairns area only
- Attractions and all national parks permit fees as per the itinerary
- Small Group Touring in comfortable, air-conditioned buses
- Visit the twin kauri pines at Lake Barrine
- Curtain Fig Tree and elevated rainforest boardwalk
- Visit Millaa Millaa Falls, including time for a swim
- Visit iconic local landmarks, including Walsh's Pyramid, Heales Lookout, Yungaburra, Curtain Fig Tree, Malanda, Crawford's Lookout, Millaa Millaa Falls
- Rainforest swim at Babinda Boulders (time permitting)
- Buy your own locally grown tropical fruit at a local fruit stall
