You could spend months in Queensland and there would still be more to see and do. However, not everyone has months to spare, so if you have only have a week or two, Flight Centre's experienced Queensland consultants have the right ideas for ensuring your itinerary delivers highlights every day.
One week? Head to Cairns
Cairns is an exciting and modern city that acts as a hub to the beautiful World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, tropical islands and Daintree Rainforest. There are so many things to do and see in Cairns and surrounds, you could spend weeks in the area, however if you only have one week to play with, here’s how to keep it simple.
Take a helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef
Stay at Mantra Trilogy
Conveniently located right on the Cairns Esplanade, overlooking all of the great attractions and activity of the waterfront and within easy walking distance of the lagoon as well as the shopping and dining district, Mantra Trilogy is an ideal choice.
Accommodation options here range from contemporary hotel rooms with views of the ocean to spacious two or three-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens for longer stays. All room types feature a large balcony overlooking the city’s parklands or the ocean.
Fill your days in Cairns
Queensland’s iconic Great Barrier Reef is just a short boat ride from buzzy Cairns and there is plenty to explore! There is a variety of day tours on offer as well as extended overnight tours that head out to the islands.
The picturesque and crystal-clear water of Green Island provide the perfect spot for the whole family to witness the beauty of the reef (and the abundant sea life in it) with a snorkelling tour. After a long, lazy lunch, why not jump aboard a glass-bottom boat for a viewing tour before heading back to the mainland?
Kuranda Scenic Railway is an adventure in itself
From the ocean to the Hinterland, it’s time to head up to scenic Kuranda for a different sort of exploration. Embark on a scenic train trip from Cairns up to Kuranda that weaves its way through tunnels and over bridges, taking in amazing views of the surrounding tropical rainforests.
Spend the afternoon leisurely wandering through heritage markets before boarding the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for the ride of a lifetime. Spanning 7.5 kilometres, you can learn about the World Heritage-listed canopy as you soar high above treetops and rivers in the Skyrail cable car.
Grab a deal
Take advantage of a reduced rate at Mantra Trilogy for stays from seven days – perfect for a week-long getaway!
Words by Zoe Watters, Travel Consultant Flight Centre Chermside, QLD.
Two weeks? Explore the Gold Coast Hinterland & Townsville
Not far from Surfers Paradise lies the Gold Coast Hinterland – the perfect place to explore everything nature has to offer. Afterwards, journey from the south to the north, seeing both ends of Queensland by exploring Townsville, where food offerings and activities are abundant.
Week 1
Stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in the Gold Coast Hinterland
Situated in the prime location of Lamington National Park, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is ideal for the whole family. Discover a rainforest filled with waterfalls, endless panoramic views and treetop walks.
Self-contained suites give the whole family plenty of space, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a separate living room and the luxury of a fireplace.
Experience wildlife firsthand with O’Reilly’s Bird Watching & Feeding in Lamington National Park. The whole clan can ‘meet the locals’ on the early morning bird walk at 6.45am. Expert guides will escort you through a range of hidden gems within the park, and kids will be kept busy trying to spot the colourful birds.
The impressive mountain villa at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat
Grab a deal
Stay three nights in a mountain-view room at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and only pay for two. Plus, get free Wi-Fi and a complimentary early morning rainforest walk or 4WD tour. Chat to your local Flight Centre consultant today!
Week 2
Stay at Allure Hotel & Apartments in Townsville
These spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments feature full kitchen facilities, plenty of space and huge balconies. There is also complimentary undercover parking and the complex is in a prime location (within walking distance to dining and entertainment options in the city as well as taking in brilliant views of Magnetic Island).
The world’s largest living coral reef aquarium is housed at Reef HQ in Townsville, giving you the opportunity to experience the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet. It’s ideal for kids and also a great way to learn about sea life before heading into the water to explore further.
There’s also a turtle hospital at the complex where holidaymakers can visit sick and injured turtles and learn about their rehabilitation.
Experience sea life without getting wet at Reef HQ
Grab a deal
With a six-night minimum stay at Allure Hotel & Apartments, you can receive a reduced rate, meaning more money in your sightseeing budget.
Words by Sarah Davy, Travel Consultant Flight Centre Garden City, QLD.
Visit your local Flight Centre or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest deals on travelling to Queensland.
*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Review any specific conditions stated and our general terms at Terms and Conditions. Prices & taxes are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person.
