We are spending five days in Cairns and are planning to spend two of those days in the Atherton Tablelands. We had originally thought to drive out to the Undara Lava Tubes, spend the night and come back a different route ... but I think the Lava Lodge may be a bit rustic for us (and a little pricey for all its rustic-ness.) We still want to drive through the area, see the waterfalls and everything else. Any suggestions for a self-drive tour through this area (what we should absolutely see) and recommendations for a possible overnight stay? Thanks!

Hi

We will be doing a trip up that way in about 2 weeks, will let you know.! Meanwhile I am may steal any tips that you may get!

Thinking this stage though to do a round trip from Cairns to Mission Beach. Stopping for a 12 km hike to waterfalls near Tully. Not sure if this would catch best of Atherton or not.

Then to Dunk Island for a snorkel and back up coast Rd to Cairns.

Have already been all points north of Csairns so this time want to go west and south.

Hi Dejadeb - I wouldn't be too concerned about the"rusticness" of Undara - it is considered "outback" and has its own attractions. You can stay there in renovated railway carriages or permanent tent accommodation - have a look at www.bnbnq.com.au then look under "Tropical Tablelands" for a variety of accommodation options on the way. Both Pond Cottage and Millstream Retreat are about 2 hours from Undara and have platypus on site.

Dejadeb,

We enjoyed hiking out to the waterfalls near Milaa Milaa and the animal spotting cruise on Lake Barrine ( also a good spot for Devonshire type cream tea)

A/D

Hi,
The Tablelands are definitely the place to go to see wildlife, but unless you are a good spotter, I urge you to consider hiring a guide like Jonathan Munroe. We went out for four days with him and saw wonderful things. I wrote a report--20 days---wildlife...on this forum

good luck
KSC