Visit the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforests More Info

Atherton Tablelands - Self Drive Information

14th June 2026

Lake Barrine was formed more than 17,000 years ago following a volcanic eruption. Today, visitors can enjoy a scenic walking track, abundant wildlife, towering bull kauri pines, and relaxing lake cruises departing from the Lake Barrine Teahouse. Enjoy fresh local food, tasty homemade dishes at the Tea Houe overlooking the lake.

 

Lake Eacham is a crystal-clear volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush rainforest. Popular for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and birdwatching, the lake features a 3km walking circuit, picnic areas, and breathtaking scenery.

 

 

Yungaburra Curtain Fig Tree

One of the Atherton Tablelands’ most iconic natural attractions, the Curtain Fig Tree is estimated to be over 500 years old. This impressive strangler fig creates a spectacular curtain of aerial roots that hang 15 metres to the ground. A boardwalk and viewing platform provide excellent photo opportunities and allow visitors to appreciate the tree from every angle.

 

Gallo DairyLand

Combining a working dairy farm, cheesery, chocolatier, café, and animal nursery, Gallo DairyLand offers a delicious family-friendly experience. Enjoy cheese tastings, handcrafted chocolates, farm-fresh meals, and stunning rural views.

 

Platypus Spotting at Tarzali Lakes

Experience the chance to see Australia's unique platypus in its natural habitat at Tarzali Lakes. Set amongst lush tropical vegetation, guided platypus viewing tours depart regularly with experienced rangers, offering visitors a memorable wildlife encounter in a beautiful natural setting.

 

Waterfall Circuit – Millaa Millaa, Zillie & Ellinjaa Falls

Discover three of the Atherton Tablelands’ most beautiful waterfalls on the famous Waterfall Circuit. Swim beneath the picturesque Millaa Millaa Falls, enjoy scenic views of Zillie Falls, and explore the rainforest surroundings of Ellinjaa Falls. Picnic facilities and walking tracks make this a perfect day-trip destination.

 

Mungalli Creek Dairy Café

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Southern Atherton Tablelands, just 10 minutes from Millaa Millaa Falls, Mungalli Creek Dairy is North Queensland’s only biodynamic farmhouse cheesery and café. Enjoy artisan cheeses, fresh local produce, and spectacular views of Mt Bartle Frere while relaxing on the café verandah.

 

Crawford’s Lookout

Enjoy panoramic views across the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges from Crawford’s Lookout. This scenic viewpoint is a popular stop for photography and offers a stunning perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

 

Mount Hypipamee National Park

Home to the mysterious Hypipamee Crater, this national park features a dramatic volcanic pipe formed by an ancient gas explosion. A short rainforest walk leads to viewing platforms overlooking the crater, while nearby Dinner Falls offers a peaceful spot to enjoy cascading waters and lush rainforest scenery.

 

Babinda Boulders

A favourite swimming and picnic destination, Babinda Boulders features crystal-clear mountain waters flowing around massive granite boulders. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, the area offers picnic facilities, walking tracks, and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for a relaxing day outdoors.

 

Josephine Falls

Known as “Nature’s Playground”, Josephine Falls is famous for its natural rock slide and refreshing swimming hole. An easy rainforest walk leads to the falls, where visitors can enjoy spectacular scenery and cool off in the clear waters below.

 

Mamu Skywalk

Experience the rainforest from above at the Mamu Skywalk. This spectacular attraction features elevated walkways, a cantilever viewing platform, and a 37-metre observation tower offering breathtaking views across the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics rainforest.

 

Paronella Park

Step into a fairytale at Paronella Park, where Spanish immigrant José Paronella built his dream castle beside Mena Creek Falls in the 1930s. Explore heritage-listed gardens, tunnels, bridges, and historic ruins surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.

 

Herberton Historic Village

Step back in time at Herberton Historic Village, a remarkable collection of restored buildings and memorabilia showcasing life in pioneer Australia. Wander through authentic streetscapes, historic shops, schools, and pubs, and experience the region’s rich heritage.

 

Mt Uncle Distillery

Set amongst tropical farmland, Mt Uncle Distillery is renowned for its award-winning spirits, including rum, vodka, gin, and whisky. Visitors can enjoy tastings, meet the resident animals, and dine at the unique Bridges Restaurant, famous for its wood-fired pizzas and relaxed atmosphere.

 



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