Joanna James
Queensland is more than just beautiful beaches and fun theme parks, there are so many great things you can do and experience here that a lot of travellers don't know about. Here are the top 10.
Bunya Mountain National Park is best known as the home of the largest bunya pine trees in the world. The park overlooks the South Burnett region and there are several nice trails that take visitors through the pine forest. It's also the only place in Queensland to experience winter.
Located in the Atherton Tablelands region, Waterfall Way Circuit offers stunning views of some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. The most prominent falls are the Millaa Millaa Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country. Surrounded by tropical rainforests, there's plenty of shade for picnics as well.
A popular mountain village near Cairns, Kuranda attracts a lot of visitors annually, and while there's plenty to do here, the main attraction is the Skyrail. Take a 7.5km ride over the lush rain forest canopy with distant coastal views as well. If you're feeling adventurous, take a leap in an open-air glider for panoramic views over the forest.
Situated in the heart of Queensland, the Peak Range is a chain of majestic mountains surrounded by flat plains. Stretching between the towns of Moranbah, Clermont and Dysart, the great peaks are home to koalas, birds and several plant species. Visitors are free to camp in certain areas around the park, however most people with family's stay at nearby Moranbah. Service apartments are pretty affordable and with modern hotels like Oaks Moranbah in town, it's more comfortable than camping.
Noosa Beach is well-known as a surfing destination on the gold coast and the main beach is where locals go surfing. The beach is the only one on Australia's east coast that faces the north, and because its sheltered it is ideal for beginners to get a surfing lesson.
The largest underground mine in the country, Mount Isa is the largest producer of copper in the world. What better way to experience the intense work the miners go through and learn more about the process behind mining than to embark on a tour of the mine.
Thousands of whales migrate up and down the east coast between June to October, and the calm waters off the coast of Hervey Bay is a favourite spot for them to rest along their journey. There are several tours available if you want to head out and catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures.
Located in the middle of Fraser Island, the pristine Lake Mackenzie is said to hold the key to youth is its crystal-clear waters. The iridescent colour of the water and powder-soft white sand along the banks make this a perfect getaway spot for quiet picnics and relaxed swimming.
Moreton Island is like a smaller Fraser Island; sun, sand and clear waters in every direction. But the high sand dunes make it ideal for sand boarding. Hit the dunes and reach speeds of up to 40km per hour as you whizz down the slopes!
One of the most incredible beaches on the east coast, Whitehaven beach features pure white silica sands, crystal clear waters and a national park as a backdrop. Located on Whitehaven Island, the beach is easily accessible from the mainland by ferry or speed boat.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
