Would like some opinions if possible on which resort to choose between the Thala Beach Lodge and the Kewarra Beach Resort. From what I have read here and from other sources both places look like wonderful spots to stay, however we would prefer a more adult orientated accommodation and a quieter area so are wondering which would be more suitable for our needs. Many Thanks.

One other question for the experts. We are looking to stay at 2 properties in Queensland and the choices are Silky Oaks in Daintree and either Thala Lodge or Kewarra Resort. We are thinking about doing all the various rainforest activities and sights during a 4 night stay at Silky Oaks and then do the Great Barrier Reef excursions during a 3 night stay at T.L. or K.R.

I am wondering if these properties are all within fairly close proximity and whether it is a good idea to stay at the 2 different places or should we just combine all activities from one resort.

DJE,
I don't know either of the two you are chosing between. stay in one as they are close enough together.
BUT WHY ARE YOU REMAINING ON THE COAST?
The Tablelands is great too!

TreeRoo,
Thank you for the suggestion to look into the Tablelands area. I will do some research of this region. We are interested mainly in the coast because of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree rainforest and naturally assume this is the best place to be in order to visit these sights.

I have seen a great deal of Australia on 2 previous trips that have involved extensive driving combined with some flights and a cross country train trip from Sydney to Perth on the Indian Pacific train. We have enjoyed each and every moment even driving the long distances in the outback. It truly gives one a realistic perspective of what this wonderful country is all about.

Have you looked at Peppers Bloomfield Lodge? You fly from Cairns and the Lodge is on the edge of the rain forest. It does not cater for children under 12, but there were only adults staying when we were there. They have a boat that goes to the reef as well as day trips to Cooktown and some other places.
It is isolated but food wonderful and a relaxing time -no shopping or nightclubs. We loved it.

There's no shopping or nightclubs around Thala or Kewarra either, but do agree with jillyf on Bloomfield Wilderness Lodge. It would be hard to find a better position for both Daintree rainforest and GBR; not accessible by road - a short flight from Cairns. Definitely worth looking at, DJE.

It's a shame the Atherton Tableland is barely mentioned in US guide books, its a wonderfully diverse area with its wildlife, tropical highland rainforest, waterfalls, crater lakes, rich agricultural land, not to mention its coffee plantations - there's so much there that is missed by overseas visitors. No 5 star resorts with spas but plenty of small accommodation operators who can give the best advice on area - see www.bnbnq.com.au - under "Tablelands".

Thank you, I will have a look at the Peppers Bloomfield Lodge. They seem to run quality resorts and we have had positive experiences with their Guest House property in the Hunter Valley. We will have another stay at this location during the trip as well.

Here's a big thumbs-up for Silky Oaks. I stayed there two years ago for three or four nights and loved it. Great location (with a good hiking trail or two right from the property), very good organized activities, good food, a beautiful (though cool) swimming pool, and a wonderful spa. You can be as relaxed or as active as you want. Plus, since you're just 20(?) minutes from Port Douglas, you can easily get there for daylong excursions to the barrier reef.

If I could afford it, I'd go back to Silky Oaks in a minute. (I got in on a lucky deal the first time; that type of resort is usually out of my range.)

I don't know the other two places you mentioned, but I had a wonderful stay at Heron/Wilson Islands (another Voyages resort) on the same trip. If Silky Oaks is in your price range, they might be too.

Wilson Island is now my and my partner's definition of paradise. As in, "this is nice, but it's no Wilson Island."

ChrisS,

Thank you for your comments on Silky Oaks. We definitely want to spend about 4 nights at this lodge in Daintree and then for a more beach type experience we have been considering Kewarra Beach Resort for 3 nights. It's a choice between there and an actual island experience so I will take a look at Wilson Island, per your suggestion.