Australia

Tropical North Queensland

There’s no place on Earth like Tropical North Queensland, surrounded by reef, wrapped in rainforest, and circled by the red-dirt Outback. Here you’ll discover the world’s largest rainforest. The Wet Tropics dates back to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Find rare plants, birds, and animals you can’t find anywhere else. On the Atherton Tablelands, discover waterfall after waterfall, and witness where two World Heritage sites meet (rainforest and reef) at Cape Tribulation and Mission Beach.

Atherton Tablelands

This lush and incredibly green region of rainforest, wetland, and savannah is found just southwest of Cairns and rises more than 700 meters above sea level. Hikers should tackle a trail that meanders through Crater Lakes National Park or opt for the challenging Misty Mountains of Wooroonooran National Park. There are also 60 kilometers of mountain bike trails that wind through the Lamb Rang. Check out the limestone caves in Chillagoe and nearby volcanic crater lakes with numerous waterfalls, all created from ancient coral reef eroded over centuries. Atherton is also home to one of Australia’s two major coffee-growing regions. Visit Skybury Coffee to experience the coffee plantation, the processing of beans, and sampling one of their blends.

Kuranda

The colorful, quirky rainforest village is home to an artistic and musical legacy still enjoyed today. Be on the lookout for street art and performers. Tour the two outdoor markets, Kuranda Original Rainforest Market and the Heritage Market. You’ll find locally made clothing, jewelry, woodcarvings, and leather work. There’s also plenty of fresh local produce. Visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, home to more than 2,000 butterflies. Or, head to the Koala Gardens and cuddle a koala or feed a wallaby. Don’t miss the most famous waterfall lookout in Queensland, Barron Falls, located just outside Kuranda.

Great Barrier Reef

The blinding blues and greens of the Great Barrier Reef—a UNESCO world heritage site—run parallel with the Queensland shoreline for 1,600 miles. As one of the seven wonders of the world, this is a top spot for snorkeling and diving. Here, underwater adventurers will glimpse majestic sea life and vibrant hues, created by more than 400 species of fish and coral.

Michaelmas Reef and Upolu Cays National Park

This gorgeous national park in Queensland is just east of Cairns and forms the Arlington Reef, located within the Great Barrier Reef. Take a private boat charter to this remote area, which is one of the most coveted diving and snorkeling sites on the globe. Michaelmas is known for calm waters—protected dive sites ensure calm, clear views of dazzling coral and marine life, including massive sea turtles and grouper.

Vlasoff Cay

If wanting to chase the sun in Tropical North Queensland, hop a private charter flight and picnic on Vlasoff Cay, a tiny sand island amidst a kaleidoscope of ocean blues. What to expect? For starters, not another soul in site. Next, a champagne breakfast that looks like the set of a movie film—your own deserted island akin to scenes from Castaway with Tom Hanks, but with someone catering to your every whim. After dining on fresh seafood, fly back to the main land and explore iconic waterfalls, such as Josephine Falls, Crystal Cascades, or Behana Gorge, and then stroll the charming coastal town of Palm Cove.

Lizard Island

The only resort in the National Park and literally located on the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island offers a secluded luxury lodge like nowhere else. With only 40 suites and villas and 24 private beaches, each guest can experience their own stretch of sand. What’s more, there’s no day trip or boat ride necessary to enjoy one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Whether snorkeling or diving, experience the most picturesque reef and marine life. Be sure to check out The Captain Look hike, a trip to the highest point on the island. Or take advantage of in-house naturalists, who share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna. Indulge in signature spa rituals at the Essentia Day Spa, which incorporates Australian fruit and flower extracts and ancient traditions.