Cooktown charmed us with laid-back days, sunset cruises, museums, and even a cheeky paddle for Zoe. We wrapped it all up at the iconic Lions Den Hotel—live music, hearty meals, and full hearts.

We broke up the drive north with stops at coastal Cardwell, rainy Tully with its Golden Gumboot, and the atmospheric Paronella Park. Each stop offered its own charm before we pushed on towards Cairns.

From a tense river crossing and a surprise snake encounter to a crowded Airlie Beach and a quiet roadside camp in Home Hill — our journey north was full of unexpected turns and memorable stops.

A quick coastal stop turned into seven relaxing days camped beneath palms in Seaforth. Beach swims for Zoe, fresh scones, friendly neighbours, and a kangaroo tourism reality check made this one of our favourite unexpected stays.

Camping behind the Pinnacle Family Hotel gave us the perfect base to explore Hatton Finch and Eungella. Great hikes, homemade pies, and sugarcane trains rolling by—this little stop had charm and adventure in spades.

White Station Healing Circle sits quietly near Lake Dunn. We visited without expectations, walked the stone ring, and reflected on similar spaces we’ve seen elsewhere. A grounded look at a place designed simply to pause and feel.

Planning the Aramac Sculpture Trail? These traveller’s notes outline road conditions, timing and what to expect on the 200-kilometre loop from Aramac, including practical tips for motorhome travellers.

A quick look at the Charleville Bilby Experience and whether it’s worth your time. Short sessions, close-up viewing and a strong conservation story make it an engaging stop for travellers passing through Outback Queensland.

The Walkabout Creek Hotel brings Crocodile Dundee to life, from its preserved original bar to the memorabilia lining the walls. A classic outback pub with big character and even bigger scenery, it’s well worth a stop in McKinlay.

Spear Creek gave us rugged trails, ancient rock formations and wide, empty skies on the edge of the Southern Flinders. Sunrise walks, quiet evenings and raw outback beauty made this remote station stay one to remember.