Everyones Cape York trip planning should include saltwater crocs! The Old Telegraph Line really starts after Bramwell Junction and continues up to the Jardine River. We have put together a complete guide for getting to Bansko, cheaply, safely and hassle-free. First stop on the Cape York & Northern Islands is near the borders of NSW, SA and QLD, at the Dig Tree, where the explorers Burke and Wills famously set up camp. Taking the time to venture a bit further is often well worth the effort. Go old school and grab a paper Cape York Peninsula map from one of the nearby information centers like the one in Cooktown. Showing up at the Seisa Pier with our singular small rod and reel resulted in belly laughter from Bully, we quickly understood why. The unspoiled waters of the Cape are teeming with fish, and theyre not small. the places, locals' 66km further along the Peninsula Development Road from Coen, meals, camping and accommodation are available at Archer River Roadhouse as well as facilities for minor mechanical repairs. All the distances Optional tours (at your own expense) include a boat trip and diving on the outer reef. Alone 2. The supermarkets were generally well stocked and prices while a little more expensive than home didnt seem too exorbitant. A uniquely beautiful tour is a kayak tour for whale watching. Then you continue to Cockatoo Creek, another challenging crossing, and the final creek crossing is the bridge over Sailor Creek. The first night we spend in Shellharbour at the Beachside Holiday Park directly at the beach. If no availability send us an email or call us on 1300 206 130. Your email address will not be published. While there is free camping in Cape York, to truly experience all Cape York has to offer, you will want to visit some of the national parks. I looked at driving from Cairns to Cape York last year. The only way to do it is in your own good heavy duty 4x4. They are almost impossible to hir This is extremely remote so you will need to be fully self sufficient. Spaces in the national parks, however, are limited and fill up fast especially during school holidays. Luckily for you, we have put together a helpful Cape York trip checklist of everything that we took with us (and a few things we forgot but wish we had)! Cape York is brimming with different places to explore and things to do in this vast natural playground. The first river crossing is at the Wenlock River and just past this there is a track which leads to the old Batavia goldfields where you can still see some of the old mining equipment. Seaspray Caravan Park is located directly on the spacious beach here you can spend a wonderful time on the beach. Get familiar with key locations, where people are located, and where fuel is available. If youre feeling energetic, a walk to Cooks Lookout, the highest point of the island with a 360 view, is well worth the effort. From May/June to November is the whale season in this region, then the large marine mammals pass by here. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Today we continue our journey towards Melbourne. Stop in at the Hann River Roadhouse for refreshments, 76 km past Laura. Check out our Cape York trip checklist for a full list of spare parts and tools we suggest taking on your Cape York adventure. Thanks so much everyone for your responses - a lot of very useful information! I am very new to TA and to the forums so I was not aware there were Get exclusive content, real insider info and the best travel deals completely FREE! Check here to see if a motorhome is available during your travel time. Closer in, near the mouth of the Jardine River, monster trevally were lurking below and giant turtles floated lazily by. 2 nights: Banubanu Beach Retreat, Beach Front Bungalows. In between the supermarkets, you will find a small number of roadhouses and general stores with quite limited options and high prices. Google Maps has forsaken the Cape and I mean forsaken. Plan By using these you are directly supporting The Vanabond Tales to remain an independent travel blog. We use cookies to understand website usage, improve visitor experience, and to show you relevant updates via other digital channels. right thing and letting others know :-) There is prolific birdlife, and both estuarine and saltwater crocodiles, with plenty of barramundi in the rivers. The story if the Karijini Gorges is almost as impressive as the natural beauty of Karijini. Then take a look at this video right now. Nibble on a gourmet cheese platter, sip on a drink and listen to stories about Cooktown. you liked the books or Here is a round up of the best place to stay in Almaty. 2 nights: Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge. The PDR continues for around 100km to the Cape outpost of Coen. A highlight of the park are the Figure Eight Pools, which you can hike to. By using these you are directly supporting The Vanabond Tales to remain an independent travel blog.Looking for the best cafes in Sayulita? There are few road trips in Australia that can compete with the adventure that is driving to Cape York. At this junction there is a track to Heathlands Reserve and the lovely Fruit Bat Falls which offers a refreshing swim stop on the way to the campground at Eliot Falls and Twin Falls. 2 nights: Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge. You and your fellow travellers will be bored and on the verge of After around 30 km from Bramwell Junction you come to the Dulhunty River which is a popular spot to camp. It's easy to do. Hi Luigi. Thanks for the reply. We were planning to drive up using the freeways and paved roads along the coast - which part of the journey require If theres still time after this fascinating itinerary from Sydney to Melbourne, you can continue on the world-renowned Great Ocean Road. For prices and to make a booking please select the departure city. Simply click here to return to Cape York Travel Forums. with some spectacular scenery and Australias largest area of lowland rainforest. Your journey continues to Wollongong called The Gong, the third largest city in New South Wales. Exceptional service, facilities, touring and food are the perfect complement to swimming off the beach into the wonders of the largest coral reef in the world very hard to beat. Are you thinking about becoming a house sitter or looking for the best house sitting website in Australia? Throwing its hat in the ring for the Capes best roadhouse burger is Bramwell Junction with its massive chicken burger. WebFind local inspiration and start planning your next road trip with our simple interactive journey planner. If you go to Australia and you want to see more of the continent, plan on taking a road trip to another city to really experience the magical nature and culture of Australia. Driving time varies considerably with the condition of the roads, which in turn is dependent on the season, weather, and the number of travelers on the road. Ninety Mile Beach is one of the longest and most pristine beaches in the world. how to deal with the national In Eden you can watch whales very well between May and November, then right and humpback whales are here in the area. Since swimming in the ocean is off the table on Cape York, heading to the fresh waterfalls in the area is a must for anyone driving to Cape York. The OTL continues from Eliot Falls through the rough Canal Creek, then you face crossings at Sam Creek, Mistake Creek, the aptly named Cannibal Creek, the rickety old bridge over Cypress Creek, Logan Creek and Nolans Brook before emerging at the Jardine River. Walk in the steps of the indigenous and non-indigenous soldiers whoserved in the area, with insightful and entertaining commentary. It includes not just the best things to do in Cape York, but all the information you will need to consider in your Cape York trip planning. swimming holes, all mapped; as well as practical things - Fried chicken topped with lettuce, tomato, pineapple and smothered in delicious, tangy, spicy mayo, you cant go wrong with this staple driving to Cape York. There are several campsites in the Park and access is 4WD only. Check your inbox or spam folder for your free PDF checklist! Next is Bertie Creek and after this there is the option of the Gunshot bypass or continue on the OTL to Cholmondely Creek. From hawks feeding their young from the fish they caught in the creek in front of our camp to bower birds building ornate nests to impress potential suitors. The historic Somerset beach is another popular site to visit. Below is the average driving time between popular routes that will help with your Cape York trip planning. The peninsula is especially known for its penguins that come to the beach here in the evening. A trip to Cape York is all about adventure. 2 nights: Island Villas (2 bedroom, 2 bathroom). Impressions of the highlights of Sydney Melbourne in the video, Shellharbour at the Beachside Holiday Park, Big 4 Moruya Moruya Heads Easts Dolphin Beach Holiday Park. Thursday Island is just 30 km from Cape York Peninsula and easily accessible by ferry from Seisia. Take advantage of the complimentary snorkelling equipment and lessons, stand up paddle boards and sea kayaks and itll be hard to stay out of the water. They may seem redundant on a bright sunny day, but head into a dust cloud kicked up by traffic moving in the other direction and theyll be the only thing other drivers see. You might see sharks breaching or crocodiles bathing, scorpions lurking or snakes warming. Be aware of the areas that enforce alcohol limits per vehicle and where exemptions exist for bonafide travelers (i.e., you). If you are planning to ski Bansko Bulgaria this season, you may be wondering how to transfer from Sofia to Bansko to reach the mountain resort town. This is the only place in Australia where you can experience the splendour of tropical rainforest while being just a stones throw from the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. mistake. But both Sydney and Melbourne have their own charm. you can continue for a real adventure out to Cape Melville N.P. The most popular national park camping destinations are Chili Beach and Captain Billys Landing. Perhaps sit on the private verandah of your cabin, drink in hand, and do a spot of wildlife watching. on this Please enter your email address to reset your password. Part of your Cape York trip planning should involve meal planning. Local history experts and tour guides Liberty and Vanessa will meet you on arrival. Read More Uncovering The Best House Sitting Website in AustraliaContinue. Continue towards Wollongong, where you will see breathtakingly beautiful landscapes in the so-called Southern Tablelands. Build a couple days contingency into your route planning in case you have a breakdown or just really love a spot and want to stay an extra day or two! Recreational fishing is permitted at all camping areas with barramundi and catfish the most common species caught. Save my name and email in this browser until I comment again. Back in the air, head for home to Melbourne where youll arrive at Moorabbin Airport around 7.30pm. Transfer by ferry across to Thursday Island andyour accommodation, shared with your fellow passengers. WebThe ferry operates from 08.00-12.00 and then from 13.00 - 17.00, daily in the dry season. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! If you are interested in World War II history, dont miss out on the war relics throughout the Cape. It has existed since 1879 and is intended to serve as a large recreational area for Sydney residents. In the evening, cast your eyes upwards for a tour of the stars. Let us know in the comments below if you found this step-by-step Cape York trip planning guide useful or if we missed something! Archer River Roadhouse to Bramwell Junction, Bramwell Junction to Eliot Falls (Bamaga Road), Bramwell Junction to Captain Billys Landing. Port Kembla Harbour is also one of the three largest ports in Australia. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Next is Carnarvon Gorge, an oasis in the semi-arid heart of Central Queensland. Lunch is a picnic on the beach, then heli back to TI. Review of Cape York Peninsula Reviewed 16 September 2011 We paid $3995 for the worst travel experience of our life. I love traveling! at least 30 guaranteed FREE camping spots on the Cape (and at least 150 on your way to to the Trip the full Destination Cape York Travel Guide. Here are not only the highlights of the Coastal Drive to see, but also a few of the Inland route, but its a great video Have fun watching! End the day with a camera in one hand and a glass in the other on a sunset cruise. Enjoy a leisurely day relaxing on the island paradise that is Lizard Island, with activities at your discretion. Your day in Longreach begins with a glide down the coolabah-lined Thompson River with its abundant birdlife. The infamous Gunshot Creek is the next crossing this is probably the most challenging crossing on the OTL. Our last step in our Cape York trip planning guide is to make sure you take the time to download road trip playlists, podcasts or even movies for the young ones to keep everyone occupied on the drive to Cape York. Travel in a small group of a maximum of 8 like-minded guests, discover amazing regional restaurants and wineries, stay at an Outback Its long way to the top more than 1000km from Cairns straight to Pajinka, the traditional name for the northernmost point of mainland Australia at the top of the Cape York Peninsula but its a blockbuster of a road trip through a wild and remote landscape. There are campsites and basic accommodation in Coen as well as a post office, general store, mechanical services and petrol station. your email address is totally secure. Please click ok to continue. One of the top things to do at Cape York is to be really be aware of your surroundings and discover the nature that abounds. Lockhart River is an Aboriginal community famous for the incredible array of artistic talent produced by the Lockhart River Art Gang. First stop on the Cape York Air Safari is near the borders of NSW, SA and QLD, at the Dig Tree, where the explorers Burke and Wills famously set up camp. Our Trip from Sydney to Melbourne was beautiful in every way. WebHead through the Indigenous township of Hope Vale to Cape Bedford and Elim Beach. Thanks for reading! Here you can go excellent fishing, also there is fresh seafood that will delight you provided you like seafood. The distance Sydney Melbourne is manageable by Australian standards depending on which route you take from Sydney to Melbourne, it ranges from 880 to around 1,700 kilometers (the Sydney Melbourne Coastal Drive is the longer route). Not to mention locals' Available at Archer Roadhouse, this ginormous burger comes with the lot. Nature. From Weipa you can drive east through Batavia Downs Cattle Station to Moreton Telegraph Station, on the Wenlock River or continue from Merluna on the Telegraph Road up to Bramwell Station or Jardine National Park. On return to Thursday Island, a tour of the island reveals how its history helped to create todays dynamic, multicultural community and the tropical lifestyle it offers. At the front gate of the National Park, Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge is set on 100ha, looped by Carnarvon Creek. The Carnarvon night sky is incredibly clear, allowing for some pretty spectacular viewing. Personally, I find Sydney with its much better, more reliable weather, beautiful beaches and somewhat cooler architecture a bit nicer. The beach itself reminded us of our time at El Cuyo in Mexico with a strong offshore wind that is present year-round. Your Trip the FREE Cape Click to open full map for best experience. From Sydney to Melbourne you will pass these places and highlights. Pebbly Beach is not necessarily the most beautiful beach along this route, yet I would like to mention it here. Ulladulla is known for its fishing parade, which is held annually at Easter. At the front gate of the Carnarvon Gorge National Park, the lodge is set on 100ha, looped by Carnarvon Creek. Check out our FAQ on everything to know before you go to the Cape for information on where fuel stations are located. No trip to Cape York is complete without visiting Australias northernmost point. Yes, that's an option. I travel the east coast highways very regularly from Melbourne as far as Rockhampton and I have read your question again, bu We will then help you with further suitable suggestions: free of charge and fast! How? Then onto the fascinating Stockmans Hall of Fame, where the Australian Stockmans Experience will take you on an adventure that depicts the rugged, harsh and sometimes humorous antics of life in the bush. Other Drive from Cairns through World Heritage-listed tropical rainforest out to Mareeba then join the sealed Mulligan Highway north through rolling savannah to Quinkan Country and the 30,000-year-old rock art galleries at the Split Rock sandstone escarpment. It will be hard to stay out of the water. The pub in Bamaga holds the title of Australias northernmost pub and is the only place at the Tip where you can grab grog to go. In our opinion, of all the things to do in Cape York, renting a boat to go fishing is one of the best. Looking for a rugged vehicle to get you up to the Cape and back? Queen Victoria Market. While we found driving times were a little off, the ability to download maps and use them offline was essential in the remote Cape where service is practically non-existent. At Pebbly Beach, kangaroos come right to the beach, so you can get up close and personal with the Australian wildlife. And thats because thats how central Melbourne looks like its made up of a perfectly rectangular, neat grid of streets. It lasts 90 minutes and you will cruise by boat in the beautiful clear waters of Jervis Bay past the beautiful beaches and almost certainly see many many dolphins in Jervis Bay. 2 nights: Tiwi Island Retreat, Ocean Front Room. A sunset cruise makes for a wonderfully peaceful way to end the day. Interesting side trips from the Southern Bypass road include the turn off to Captain Billy Landing where there is a campsite. The next two nights we are at Eden Beachfront Holiday Park and have time to do our laundry and relax a bit. Spend some time at the Qantas Founders Museum with an impressive collection of aircraft, sunset drinks and the luminescent light show. Read More 9 of the Best Shymbulak HotelsContinue. Your email address will not be published. About 5km past the Quarantine Station is the turn off for Mungkan Kandju N.P. But the Mornington area is absolutely worth a stop. After lunch in Laura, fly over the vast Queensland countryside, arriving at Longreach in the late afternoon. It might be a bit of fun for you, but it wont be for the child who gets attacked because that croc becomes complacent around humans. It is about 1,700 kilometers long with a few detours to highlights worth seeing such as Wilsons Promontory National Park or Phillip Island. website is correct, this site is not to be blamed should there be a Friendly staff here can offer advice on places to visit and road conditions. One thing people have come to closely associate with Mexico Da de Muerto, the Day of the Dead celebration. Flying north towards the Gulf of Carpentaria, your aircraft will land near your cabin at Adels Grove, in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park, overlooking the stunning Lawn HillCreek. Includes every Cape 4WD icon and must do. Between Eden and Mallacoota further south is the New South Wales state border with Victoria. Trust us, you will need these on parts of the drive as the drive isnt all as exciting as the famous Old Telegraph Track! Please note that some links on our site are affiliate links. As with every camping trip, planning your meals is an important part of preparation. Read our privacy policy for more info. Explore the historic homestead at Camden ParkStation, enjoy the expansive view from the verandah, visit a circa 1920 shearing shed and gain an insight into the history of grazing in the outback. Whichever way you choose to drive, the trip up Cape York will be an unforgettable adventure to mainland Australia's northernmost point. Want to save this article for future Cape York trip planning? Read More The Karijini Gorges: Your Complete GuideContinue, Your email address will not be published. Trust us, it may turn out to be one of the highlights of your drive from Cairns to Cape York. On your onward journey you will come to the Sea Cliff Bridge, the 660m long bridge leads you in approx. WebDrive. 4WD is essential and campers need to be fully self sufficient. Batemans Bay is an El Dorado for anglers, is best known for its fresh seafood, and offers great beaches for families and water sports enthusiasts like scuba divers. Cairns to Laura. Land at Loyalty Beach, then bus to Frangipani Beach for a 500 metre walk over uneven ground to the tip of mainland Australia. Awesome, check your inbox or spam folder for our top tip for traveling Australia. to stay (general info), what It is approx 310 km from Cairns-Laura and approx 330 km Cairns-Cooktown on the Mulligan Highway route. Dinner is a delicious BBQ under the stars at your retreat. Many of the beautiful beaches are unguarded and sometimes very dangerous because of the currents. These cookies enhance your experience and improve the quality of our site. Ferry back to Horn Island to re-join your aircraft for the flight south to Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef. $650 - $1,000. 41m height over the ocean. We have included details and resources on route planning, packing, supplies, accommodation, car care, and a range of other helpful tips. Back at the lodge, savour a well-earned drink at sunset overlooking the water and enjoy the catch of the day. The first tour will take you from Sydney to Melbourne along the coast where you will see many great beaches, coasts, national parks and really beautiful places. The Cape York trip checklist includes everything from recovery equipment to medical supplies to camping equipment and more. Hop in a canoe or boat and float about the gorge, taking in the visual splendour and quiet, enjoy a cooling dip in the gorge. Today is your chance to go offshore reef fishing on a half-day cruise. And while that is certainly true you will spend a LOT of time in the vehicle driving to Cape York. Transfer by ferry across to Thursday Island (TI) and your accommodation. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Owned and operated by Kirkhope Aviation, with 40+ years of air touring experience across Australia. And, deciding what to pack for Cape York can be a challenge. We have you sorted with our complete guide to house sitting and Australian house sitting websites. That being said getting a routine inspection before you set out wont totally eliminate your chances of breaking down or having a bit of trouble. from fuel, roads, wireless internet and mobile phone reception, Fly by chopper over the region's 247 virtually untouched islands, spreading like stepping stones through the strikingly turquoise waters of the Arafura Sea. Adventure. Lawn Hill Gorge is one of the most spectacular gorges in the Gulf Country, with luscious tropical vegetation, sheer red cliffs and enchanting green water. 2 days 2h. the places (down to prices, opening hours and full contact In a straight line, the If you have the time, we advise you to drive this route also with a motorhome, because this way you experience Australia just a bit more intense. Thank you for doing the There are two different routes to get from Sydney to Melbourne. Water is shot out of this blowhole, sometimes to a height of over 60 meters. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great, you are only one click away from becoming a vanabond. Built for those looking to get off the beaten path, it is the perfect navigational tool to have if youre aiming for a wild 4WD adventure on the Cape. Dinner is a delicious BBQ at your retreat. From our Brand Ambassador James Morrison, Spectacular flightseeing over outback and reef, Bucket list helicopter to the Tip of Australia, All-inclusive tour (unless stated on itinerary), Well-appointed private aircraft by Kirkhope Aviation, Premium small group touring, maximum 10 passengers, fully escorted. contains information thathelps you getting started with planning of your trip. : there and get If you are to succeed in driving Cape York, preparation is key. Learn more about thispioneering pair and their ill-fated expedition. WebGet set for some fine food and wine, luxury, and adventure on this epic road trip through Outback New South Wales. Camp either at Laura or in nearby Lakefield National Park, or alternatively split the journey at Lakeland where there is a caravan park where you can store your caravan. Luxury ensuite glamping at Mitchell Grass Retreat - with a private deck, air-conditioning, indulgent king size bed and bath looking out over the plain, you may not want to leave! Besides the Booderee National Park with its beautiful small bays you will be rewarded with beaches of white sand and crystal clear water and the odd dolphin. Step 1 | Get a Good Cape York Map Step 2 | Understand the Distances in Cape York Step 3 | Decide on Things to Do at Cape York Step 4 | Plan Your Cape York 2 nights: Mitchell Grass Retreat or Saltbush Retreat. Mallacoota and the Mallacoota Inlet offer uniquely beautiful beaches where you will encounter few or virtually no other people. travel guide is all you need before and during your trip. Camping 3. After a day of packing and preparation, we were off! To end the day, stay and dine in one of Australias most iconic pubs the Birdsville Hotel. And within Mexico, the city of Oaxaca is renowned for its authentic and vibrant Day of the Dead festival. Famous for its wind swept palms and white sand beaches, it is no wonder this Insta-worthy beach is a popular stop on the drive from Cairns to Cape York. Many travellers start their Tropical Far North Queensland and Cape York adventure from Cairns. It is also wise to map out an altnerate plan in case things, well, dont go to plan. Ferry tickets can be purchased online here. WebRoad trip: Cairns to Cape York. But a travel route should never be about getting from one place to another so quickly, but to make the most of the time and route. In the evening, cast your eyes upwards for a tour of the stars. See the Great Tropical Drive Discovery Trail and Great Tropical Drive Daintree Trail for further information. Drive through San Remo over the bridge to Philip Island. Of course, it is always a matter of taste and depends on what you like best in cities. Grab a photo at the tip with your group. Make sure your Cape York trip planning includes brushing up on a safety strategy. This stunning 16-day Cape York & Northern Islands tour takes you to the very tip of Australia, outback Queensland, Torres Strait Islands, the Flying north towards the Gulf of Carpentaria, your aircraft will land near your cabin at Adels Grove, in Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park, overlooking the stunning Lawn Hill Creek.