Located around 90km from Cairns, there are a number of ways of getting to the Tablelands, many travel via the Gillies Highway into the mountains, or take the Kuranda Highway from the northside of Cairns. The higher elevation and cooler climate are a welcome respite in the summer when the rainforest and waterfalls come alive, but anytime is a wonderful time to tour with a caravan. We had three weeks to fill before an organised house sit in Cooktown — always a nice break from van life. However, even a week will give you a delicious taste of the Tablelands.
There are almost 2000 farms, producing tropical fruit all thriving from basalt soil, good rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Like a proverbial food bowl, you'll find bananas, mangoes, limes, coffee, tea, milk, cheese a plenty and exotic fruits, many found at roadside stalls. Grab a map and divide your time between the southern and northern tablelands, or just go where the roads tempt you and prepare for a feast of the senses.
From Mareeba to Atherton
Our Tablelands adventure starts at Rifle Creek,
