Our tropical getaway begins with a flight from Sydney to Cairns, where warm breezes and palm-lined streets welcome us to Far North Queensland. From the airport, we travel north along the scenic coastline to Palm Cove, a tranquil seaside village known for its elegant esplanade, swaying palms and laid-back coastal charm.

On arrival, we’ll enjoy lunch before checking in to Peppers Palm Cove. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax and settle in. Take time to unwind beside the resort’s lagoon pool, wander along Palm Cove’s iconic foreshore, browse the boutique shops, or enjoy a coffee or gelato with views of the Coral Sea. For those seeking an extra touch of indulgence, a spa treatment or a quiet afternoon under the palms might be just the thing.

This evening, we gather for a welcoming in-house dinner at the hotel — a perfect, relaxed start to our time in the tropics.

Overnight: Peppers Palm Cove
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we set off for a full day of discovery in the Daintree region, where the ancient rainforest meets the reef. Our first experience is the Daintree River Cruise, with morning tea included as we glide along the tranquil waters in search of crocodiles, birds, and other native wildlife.

We continue to the Mossman Gorge Centre, where we enjoy lunch, before exploring the walking tracks and crystal-clear waters of Mossman Gorge. On our return journey, we stop to browse the boutiques and galleries of Port Douglas before heading back to Palm Cove.

Dinner tonight will be at one of Palm Cove’s many local restaurants.

Overnight: Peppers Palm Cove
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we check out of Peppers Palm Cove and travel inland to explore the natural beauty of the Atherton Tablelands. As we ascend into the highlands, the landscape transforms into rolling green countryside and lush rainforest.

Our first stop is the charming Lake Barrine Teahouse, where we enjoy morning tea overlooking the tranquil volcanic crater lake. Surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest, this historic teahouse offers a peaceful beginning to our day.

We then continue to the remarkable Curtain Fig Tree, one of the Tablelands’ most iconic natural landmarks. A short boardwalk leads through leafy rainforest to this impressive 500-year-old strangler fig, whose vast curtain of aerial roots makes for an unforgettable sight.

Late morning, we travel to the nearby Lake Eacham, a serene volcanic crater lake encircled by rainforest. Here, we enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch in a beautiful natural setting, with time to take in the calm surroundings or enjoy a gentle lakeside walk.

In the afternoon, we continue on to the spectacular Millaa Millaa Falls, one of Queensland’s most photographed waterfalls, renowned for its perfect cascade and lush green backdrop.

Following our visit, we journey back to the coast via the scenic Palmerston Highway, arriving in Cairns in the late afternoon. On arrival, we check in to the Shangri-La The Marina Cairns, beautifully positioned on the waterfront.

This evening, we gather for an in-house dinner.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure, with the entire day free to explore Cairns from our waterfront base at the Shangri-La The Marina Cairns. With the marina and Esplanade right at your doorstep, you can spend the day relaxing, shopping, dining, or choosing from a range of optional activities.

Optional experiences you may enjoy (additional cost):

• Outer Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling Tour – A full-day adventure to the outer reef with opportunities to snorkel vibrant coral gardens and see marine life up close.
• Green Island Cruise – A relaxed island escape offering beaches, swimming, snorkelling, and glass-bottom boat viewing.
• Fitzroy Island Day Trip – Another beautiful island option with walking trails, snorkelling, and stunning beaches.
• Cairns Harbour or Trinity Inlet Cruise – Enjoy a gentle scenic cruise along the waterways, taking in views of mangroves, mountains, and the harbour.
• Cairns Esplanade & Waterfront – Spend the day browsing boutiques, enjoying cafés and restaurants, or relaxing by the waterfront lagoon.

Whether you prefer adventure on the water or a peaceful day exploring at your own pace, the choice is entirely yours.

Please note: Guests wishing to take part in any optional activities must book these  prior to departure from Sydney.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we travel to Freshwater Station to board the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. This magnificent journey winds through tropical rainforest, across towering bridges, and past cascading waterfalls as it climbs toward the mountain village of Kuranda. Along the way, marvel at breathtaking views of the Barron Gorge and the lush landscape below — a true highlight of the region.

Upon arrival, take time to explore Kuranda at your own pace. Wander through its vibrant markets, boutique galleries, and charming cafés before enjoying lunch at leisure.

In the afternoon, we return via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding silently above the treetops for a unique perspective of the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest. Stop at scenic lookouts to take in sweeping views stretching from the mountains to the Coral Sea.

This evening, we will gather again for dinner in house.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina Cairns
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we check out of the hotel and enjoy a final day exploring Cairns before our journey home. Our first stop is the Cairns Aquarium, where we wander through immersive exhibits showcasing the extraordinary marine life of the Great Barrier Reef and the diverse ecosystems of tropical North Queensland.

We then travel to the Cairns Botanic Gardens, renowned for their magnificent collection of tropical plants. Enjoy time to stroll through the gardens’ vibrant displays before we come together for a relaxed lunch at the garden café.

In the afternoon, we depart for Cairns Airport, arriving with plenty of time to check in for our return journey. We then board our flight to Sydney, reflecting on the wonderful experiences shared throughout our Far North Queensland adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch