After spending a couple of days in Townsville and Magnetic Island, head north and take a detour to Paluma. Enjoy the spectacular view from McClellands Lookout that offers views of the islands and coastline. Nearby to Paluma, stop at Big or Little Crystal Creek for a BBQ picnic and swim or to view the historic stone art bridge (Little Crystal Creek).

Heading to Ingham, stop for an exotic fruit ice-cream and turn-off to Jourama Falls (6km each way; unsealed road) for great views and walking tracks. Upon arrival in Ingham visit Tyto Wetlands. Overnight in Ingham or surrounding beaches.

After exploring Ingham, head to the coast to visit Lucinda’s longest sugar loading jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. West to Trebonne Post Office and visit Wallaman Falls, Australia’s highest single drop waterfall.

Continue to Cardwell and access Australia’s largest island National Park, Hinchinbrook Island. Spend an extra day to enjoy a night or trek the famous Thorsborne Trail. Visit the historic Cardwell Post Office and Bush Telegraph Centre.

Head to the Tully River and Tully Gorge for whitewater rafting, a picnic or camping. Trek the Misty Mountains Trails or continue onto Mission Beach for beaches, shopping, dining and diverse accommodation.

Walk along the 1.5 km Ulysses Link Walking Track that winds its way along the breathtaking Mission Beach foreshore or spend an extra night on Dunk Island if time permits.

Heading north from Mission Beach take a detour to Mena Creek to visit the intriguing Paronella Park, a crumbling Spanish castle based around the remains of a Spanish grandiose home.

Continue to Innisfail for the night. Visit the Australian Sugar Museum in Mourilyan, just south of Innisfail. Experience Innisfail’s high concentration of Art Deco buildings and visit the Lit Sing Gung-Chinese Temple (1940). There is a range of accommodation options.