Lovers of Luxury

Stop 1: Orpheus Island (Departs from Townsville)

While not technically part of the ‘road’ trip, if you’re in search of a luxurious getaway, you can’t miss Orpheus Island. Located amidst the magical waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Orpheus Island Resort is a secluded island hideaway accommodating just 28 indulged guests. Access is either via a 30-minute helicopter journey from Townsville.

Orpheus Island's principal dive sites boast 1,100 of the 1,500 species of fish on the reef; the local waters are a fisherman's playground and home to the most sought after reef fish species in the world; and guests can take the helm of a motorised dingy complete with gourmet picnic hamper and discover the many pristine coves and reefs that fringe Orpheus.

Alternatively, Orpheus provides the perfect backdrop for a more private interlude if guests wish to simply relax and succumb to a unique indigenous-inspired treatment at the Gwandalan Day Spa. 

Tip: We suggest spending at least two nights at the Orpheus Island Resort. 

Stop 2 - Townsville

Coming back to ‘reality’ after spending time on a remote island will be easy when you visit The Ville Resort-Casino. Heralded as the ideal ‘locals’ escape, The Ville is a place you can make your own - a peaceful oasis, or a supercharged playground? A place to lose yourself, or to find your bliss? A fleeting drink with friends, or a week of memories to last a lifetime?

Start clocking up the kilometres with a short 20-minute ferry ride across to Magnetic Island, where you can spend the day sailing the high seas on a luxury yacht with Big Mama Sailing, or Pilgrim Sailing. Both tours offer a sunset sail – so kick-back and relax while you sip a champagne and take in the watercolour skies across the horizon.

(OPTIONAL EXTRA STOP) Optional overnight on Magnetic Island at any one of the holiday apartment options. 

Stop 3 - Paluma

Now this is where the real road-tripping begins. Take a drive North along the Bruce Highway to the cool pristine rainforests of the Paluma Range National Park (approximately 1.5hrs drive). Go off-grid but live like a king or queen, all while taking in the epic natural surroundings at the Hidden Valley Cabins.

While you’re there, embark on one of the many nature tours with North Queensland Tours to fully experience what is considered to be the oldest continually living rainforest in the world! See platypus, view the epic Running River Gorge and become acquainted with the quaint Paluma Rainforest Village.

Stop 4 - Ingham

The drive from Paluma to Ingham is literally a trip along the “50 shades of green” highway - leaving behind the emerald shades of the rainforest and heading to the sugary shamrock greens of the cane fields. A proud sugar cane growing township, Ingham is also home to stunning Wet Tropics, and the southern hemisphere’s largest single drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls.If you’re up for another exclusive experience, and one that showcases nature in its most pure form, then journey up the Hinchinbrook Channel to Hinchinbrook Island – managed as its own National Park region, the island only allows 40 visitors at any one time, so you’re very likely to wander its wild beaches and leave only your footprints.

Tip: While in Ingham, you must try the local Italian cuisine, and fresh local produce. The Taste of Hinchinbrook Tour with Ravens Tours will guide you along the tastiest trail!