YUNGABURRA and the CRATER LAKES
- INDEX
- DESTINATIONS
- YOUR ITINERARY
- ACCOMMODATION
- THINGS TO DO
- TRANSPORT
- TOURS
- ATTRACTIONS
- WEDDING / HONEYMOON
- CAR HIRE
- DINING OUT
- BACKPACKERS
- INTERNET@CAFES
- CAMERA HIRE
- MAPS and INFO
- SAFE TRAVEL
- CLASSIFIEDS
- LINKS
This pocket of the Atherton Tablelands is full of wonders, a region that combines natural splendour with old world pioneering charm. Yungaburra hosts the Tablelands' most popular markets, and is home to the incredible Curtain Fig Tree. The nearby volcanic crater lakes of Eacham and Barrine are perfect picnic spots, and the crystal clear waters make for a refreshing dip.
FOR ALL THE BEST LOCAL ATTRACTIONS, ACCOMMODATION AND DINING AREAS IN THIS REGION, USE THE LINKS ABOVE OR SCROLL DOWN. TO OPEN AN INTERACTIVE MAP OF THE ATHERTON TABLELANDS IN A SEPARATE SMALLER WINDOW, CLICK HERE.
YUNGABURRA
Just ten minutes east of Atherton lies the historic town of Yungaburra, a very popular tourist destination on the Cairns Highlands. The town began, in the early 1880's, as nothing more than an overnight stop for miners and settlers who came from the coast on their way to the tin mines and gold fields farther west. The railway reached the area in 1910. A sawmill was established, and a brief period of rapid development ensued, but Yungaburra has remained largely unchanged since then, and the streets exude a romantic, old world charm that many visitors find quite hypnotizing. There are no less than 18 Heritage Listed buildings in the town, making Yungaburra the largest National Trust village in Queensland.The Atherton Tablelands has a thriving local art and music scene, and Yungaburra, with more than its share of galleries, is a focal point for musicians and artists around the Highlands. The Yungaburra craft and produce markets, held on the fourth Saturday of each month, attracts over 300 stall holders, selling all manner of arts and crafts, local produce, and homemade foods. The markets are a huge attraction for both visitors and residents of surrounding areas.
Just outside Yungaburra - in fact you can walk there - is the Atherton Tablelands' most famous tree, the 800 year old CURTAIN FIG, a fig tree with the vines hanging down giving it the appearance of curtains. This rainforest giant stands 50 meters tall and spreads to 39 meters wide at the base.
Yungaburra's central location between Lake Tinaroo and the Crater Lakes of Barrine and Eacham makes the town an ideal base for any visitor interested in recreational activities including sailing, boating, swimming, canoeing, bushwalking, water-skiing and sail boarding.
SERVICES: Yungaburra has a petrol station, two small supermarkets, a pub and an impressive range of eateries. There is a police station in town, a post office, and a medical centre. Public telephones are across the road from the pub, and ATM services are available in the Foodmarket.
CRATER LAKES
Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham are volcanic crater lakes, 65 metres deep, brimming with crystal clear water and surrounded by lush tropical highland rainforest. This rich, volcanic area has some of the best rainforests in Australia, draped with epiphytic ferns and mosses, and huge strangler figs wrapping their roots around their host trees. In volcanic terms, these lakes are relatively 'new', formed as recently as 12,000 years ago by massive explosions of superheated water vapour under the earth's crust. But this is an ancient land, and the Kauri trees of Crater Lakes National Park are almost identical to fossil Kauris found in 300 million year old rocks.In contrast to their violent beginnings, the Crater Lakes provide a peceful, tranquil retreat. Lake Eacham is fed by underground springs, so it maintains a constant water level, even in periods of drought. It is popular for swimming and canoeing. There's a three kilometre walking track around the lake, that takes about 45 minutes. Lake Barrine is not as good for swimming, but visitors can enjoy a cruise on the lake and a Devonshire tea in the teahouse. Lake Barrine's six kilometre circuit track takes you through rainforests of Giant Kauri Pines, Cedar Trees and Flowering Umbrella trees. Keep an eye out for the twin Giant Kauris, over 1,100 years old - near Lake Barrine. Sadly, the massive Red Cedar - the only one of its size in Australia - fell during Cyclone Larry in March 2006.
ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO - YUNGABURRA AND THE CRATER LAKES
SHAYLEE STRAWBERRY FARM
Corner Gillies Highway and Marks Lane
(between Atherton and Yungaburra) (MAP)
Phone (07) 4091 2962 / Fax (07) 4091 4060
shaylee.htm
Simply irresistible!
Shaylee Strawberries is located between Atherton and Yungaburra, sitting at 700 metres above sea level. Shaylee's rich, red volcanic soil and temperate weather conditions are just right for the cultivation of large, succulent strawberries. These are at their best during tourist season, July to November.
So grab some delicious fresh strawberries and cool off with a refreshing natural Gelato or Sorbet, made from all natural products from the Atherton Tablelands.
LAKE BARRINE RAINFOREST CRUISE & TEAHOUSE
Gillies Highway, Yungaburra (MAP)
Phone (07) 4095 3847 / Fax (07) 4095 3260
www.lakebarrine.com.au
Guided boat tours of Lake Barrine!
Whether you're interested in a fully guided boat tour of the lake and its creatures, a swim in the 10,000-year-old freshwater lake (along with a few friendly ducks), or a quick snack at the lakeside teahouse amongst beautiful terraced gardens, Lake Barrine offers one of the most beautiful and relaxing environments in the tropics. Lake Barrine Cruises run two specially built cruise boats with a total capacity of 170 which take visitors on the tour around the lake in ease and luxury
Lake Barrine is actually the crater left by a volcanic eruption approximately 10,000 years ago. And it is world famous for its informative relaxing rainforest and wildlife cruises around the volcanic crater brim. The 40-minute, 6km cruises provides a close-up view of one of the most complex and amazing rainforest eco-systems in the world.
MARKETS
YUNGABURRA MARKETS
This is a genuine country market, the largest market in the Tablelands. It has become popular with tourists, but also attracts locals from a wide area. Run by the Parents and Citizens Association of the Yungaburra State School, profits from the stalls benefit the local children. Held on the 4th Saturday of each month, from 7:30am to 12:30pm, don't miss it if you're in the area.If you're planning to stay in Yungaburra, be prepared to book your accommodation in advance. Note: In the month of December, the market is held on an alternate day so as to not conflict with the Christmas season.
KAIRI MARKETS
The Kairi Markets are held every 2nd Sunday of the month in the Kairi Community Hall, from 7:30am until noon. It is a small market, but is charming and hospitable and it is ideal to find lots of plants, clothing, preserves and some livestock.
NATURAL SITES
PLATYPUS VIEWINGYungaburra is one of just a small number of places in Australia where you stand a chance of viewing one of Australia's elusive monotremes in the wild. One of the best vantage points is the specially built viewing platform on Peterson's Creek, near Nick's Restaurant, but you can try your luck anywhere along the creek. The Allumbah Pocket is also a good spot. The best viewing times for platypus are early morning or late afternoon although you can sometimes see them on cloudy, overcast days.
CURTAIN FIG TREE
The remarkable Curtin Fig Tree is just a 20 minute walk from Yungaburra. Starting at the Platypus viewing platform on Peterson's Creek, cross the bridge, and then follow the markers to the Curtain Fig Forest Reserve. This tree has been formed when seeds were deposited high in a host tree by birds. The fig tree has sent down aerial roots to the ground, and in time the host tree has died, leaving a huge curtain of aerial roots. Of course, you can drive there if you choose to, and the track from the carpark is wheelchair accessible.
BUSHWALKING
ALLUMBAH POCKET AND FRAWLEY'S POOLAllumbah Pocket is a fairly new walking track and picnic area on Peterson's Creek which runs past Yungaburra. It leads to Frawley's Pool, a popular swimming hole and picnic area. Along the walk, you should also keep an eye out for the rare tree kangaroo, which is found in these forests.
OLD TOWN LOOP HERITAGE WALK
With 18 buildings listed by the National Trust of Queensland, Yungaburra has the highest proportion of heritage listed buildings outside of regional centres in Queensland. Pick up an 'Old Town Loop' map from the Visitors Centre, in Cedar Street, or a local business, and take a stroll back in time, around the historic heart of Yungaburra Village.
THE CRATER LAKES
LAKE BARRINEFrom Yungaburra drive 15 minutes down the Gillies Highway towards the coast. Lake Barrine National Park is on the right and well signposted. The larger of the twin crater lakes, Lake Barrine has been operating as a tourist destination since the 1920's. Enjoy a lake cruise and a Devonshire tea at the Tea House on the waters edge. Spot the sunbathing pythons, eels, turtles, ducks and other water birds. Experience remnant Tableland Rainforest on the 6.5 kilometre walk around the lake. There is a short walk to the 1,100 year old Twin Kauri Pines. Picnic and toilet facilities are available.
LAKE EACHAM
From Yungaburra, drive 5 minutes down the Gillies Highway towards the coast, turn right at the Malanda Road, and then 300 metres along, turn left into the Crater Lakes National Park - Lake Eacham Section. It is a short but beautiful drive through the rainforest to a superb volcanic crater lake with deep emerald waters, perfect for swimming and a picnic on the grassy bank. The lake is surrounded by World Heritage Rainforest, with a 4.5 kilometre walking track around its perimeter. You may spot a musky rat kangaroo dart in front of you, or see the Boyds forest dragon sitting motionless on a tree limb, perfectly camouflaged. The brush turkeys stalk the picnic areas, and turtles and fish are seen in the lake. Barbecue and toilet facilities are available in the area.
EVENTS
YUNGABURRA FOLK FESTIVALEvery year around the end of October, Yungaburra holds the Yungaburra Folk Festival. It is always scheduled to coincide with the Yungaburra Markets, and last the whole weekend. The festival features bush dancing, poetry, storytelling, fire-twirling, and concerts from famous Australian folk musicians. There is a small entry fee to get into the concerts, which are held in various venues around the town, but you're free to walk the town and soak up the atmosphere.
For more details of special events throughout the year, please check out our TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND EVENTS CALENDAR.
ACCOMMODATION - YUNGABURRA AND THE CRATER LAKES
Yungaburra accommodation ranges from luxurious spa retreats to historic pub style lodging and budget motel accommodation. Travelling families will find accommodation to suit their needs, with a number of holiday homes, cottages and apartments to choose from. There is a choice of bed and breakfast accommodation, as well as a backpackers hostel, and a tourist park with cabins, caravan sites and campgrounds. Scroll down or use the buttons on the right to choose your style of Yungaburra holiday accommodation.
HOTELS AND RESORTS
MOTELS
LAKE EACHAM HOTEL
(Yungaburra Pub)
29 Gordonvale Road, Yungaburra (MAP)
Phone (07) 4095 3515 / Fax (07) 4095 3202
www.yungaburrapub.com.au
Traditional Aussie pub accommodation
The historic Lake Eacham Hotel in Yungaburra is affectionately known as the "Yungaburra Pub". Built early last century, this historic landmark is situated in the centre of Yungaburra village close to amenities, attractions and restaurants.
The hotel today offers friendly service and old fashioned country hospitality. The interior of the hotel still displays its original magnificence, a showpiece of Federation architecture, using locally felled and milled timbers like cedar and silky oak. Entering the hotel guests are surrounded by the charm, grace and grandeur of a bygone era. Exquisite timber paneling and fittings excite the senses and calm the soul as guests relax and enjoy homestyle meals, quality wines and good conversation with their friends - both old and new.
Lake Eacham Hotel offers affordable budget accommodation in quiet, comfortable rooms with ensuite facilities.
CURTAIN FIG MOTEL
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KOOKABURRA LODGE MOTEL |
HOLIDAY HOMES
HOLIDAY APARTMENTS
MOUNT QUINCAN CRATER RETREAT
Peeramon Road, Yungaburra (MAP)
Phone / Fax (07) 4095 2255
www.mtquincan.com.au
Luxurious treehouses - seclusion & tranquility !
Situated in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands, the award winning Mt. Quincan Crater Retreat offers luxurious accommodation in architecturally designed pole cabins, nestled amongst some of Tropical North Queensland's most breathtaking scenery. Each fully self contained timber pole treehouse contains a king size bed, comfy sofa lounge, double spa, and wood fire. The double spa overlooks panoramic views of the tablelands whilst others have unique views of the Mt. Quincan Crater. The recently constructed Canopy Cabins feature (in addition to the double spa and double shower) a secluded outside deck and shower in the privacy of the treetops.
Also included are provisions for a full Tableland country breakfast each morning. Enjoy on your verandah with nature's wildlife. Watch for the rare tree climbing kangaroos. Mount Quincan Crater Retreat is an ideal couple's retreat destination or parents getaway. Perfect for a honeymoon location! A private paradise.
YUNGABURRA LAKESIDE HOLIDAY APARTMENT
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ALLUMBAH POCKET COTTAGES
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BED AND BREAKFASTS AND FARMSTAYS
BACKPACKERS HOSTELS
ON THE WALLABY BACKPACKERS
34 Eacham Road, Yungaburra (MAP)
Phone / Fax (07) 40952031
www.onthewallaby.com
Free platypus spotting tours!
Well presented, excellent value-for-money and warmly welcoming, On The Wallaby is everything you've ever wanted or imagined budget accommodation could be. Maybe that is why they scored the editors pick in the latest Lonely Planet guide book!
Also offering half day Canoeing, Mountain Biking, Lakes and Waterfalls tours and their famous Night Canoeing Tour!
Choose from Dorm rooms, twins and doubles. Camping and vans are also welcome
CARAVAN PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS
LAKE EACHAM TOURIST PARK
Lakes Drive, Lake Eacham (MAP)
Phone (07) 4095 3730
www.lakeeachamtouristpark.com
Just a walk from the pristine waters of Lake Eacham, enjoy the natural beauty of 10 shady acres offered by this friendly country park. Ideal for Vans, Campers, caravans, and budget accommodation tourists. Set in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands, you are central to the attractions of the area.
Five cabins provide accommodation in a great leafy setting at a great value price. The cabins have various layouts, all have private bathroom facilities and kitchenette, and are insect screened.
Camping and van sites are situated on 10 shady acres of park like grounds. Large drive through sites are available for caravans and large campervans.
DINING - YUNGABURRA AND THE CRATER LAKES
LAKE EACHAM HOTEL
(Yungaburra Pub)
29 Gordonvale Road, Yungaburra (MAP)
Phone (07) 4095 3515 / Fax (07) 4095 3202
www.yungaburrapub.com.au
Old fashioned country hospitality!
The historic Lake Eacham Hotel in Yungaburra is affectionately known as the "Yungaburra Pub". Built early last century, this historic landmark is situated in the centre of Yungaburra village close to amenities, attractions and restaurants.
The hotel today offers friendly service and old fashioned country hospitality. Daily lunch and evening meals available. Chef prepared good old fashioned pub meals as well as fine dining and traditional Australian food. Come and experience our 'Coat of Arms' Pie made with kangaroo and emu meat. Daily roasts available. Weddings and private functions catered for.
The interior of the hotel still displays its original magnificence, a showpiece of Federation architecture, using locally felled and milled timbers like cedar and silky oak. Entering the hotel guests are surrounded by the charm, grace and grandeur of a bygone era. Exquisite timber paneling and fittings excite the senses and calm the soul as guests relax and enjoy homestyle meals, quality wines and good conversation with their friends - both old and new.
NICK'S SWISS ITALIAN RESTAURANT
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LAKE BARRINE TEA HOUSE
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GETTING THERE - YUNGABURRA AND THE CRATER LAKES
Public transport is quite limited throughout the region and it is generally recommended that visitors who do not have their own vehicle should hire a car. Why don't you let us sort out this for you and save yourself the hassle? Visit our CAR HIRE page and we will do all the hard work for you finding the best deal on the market on a rental car or campervan. After all, you are coming to Tropical North Queenland to relax, aren't you?
Please Note: There are no regular public transport services to (or between) the towns of Yungaburra, Malanda, Kairi, Tinaroo or Millaa Millaa.
Whitecars Coaches, below, runs from Cairns through the middle of the Atherton Tablelands, passing through Mareeba, Walkamin, Tolga and Atherton. Whitecars Coaches offers connections with Kerry's Bus Service from Atherton to Ravenshoe and Herberton, and also with Chillagoe Bus Services along the Wheelbarrow Way to Chillagoe.
In Cairns, the route begins/ends at 46 Spence Street, but passengers can also also hail the bus at bus stops along Sheridan Street, or anywhere else along the route, provided it is safe for the driver to stop. Discounts range from 20% for tertiary students to 50% for pensioners and primary school children. Details of Whitecar Coaches latest timetable and fares can be found on their website.
A number of towns, including Mareeba, Atherton, Malanda and Ravenshoe, have local taxi services, and can serve to transport you from town to town. Of course this can become expensive, especially if travelling alone.
- KURANDA
- MT. MOLLOY - JULATTEN
- MAREEBA - CHILLAGOE
- ATHERTON - LAKE TINAROO
- YUNGABURRA-CRATER LAKES
- MALANDA - MILLAA MILLAA
- RAVENSHOE - MT. GARNET
- HERBERTON - IRVINEBANK
EMERGENCY SERVICES
In case of emergency only, dial 000. In all other cases, phone the local service for Yungaburra:
Ambulance (07) or 131233
Hospital (07)
Police (07) 4095 3520
EMERGENCY SERVICES
In case of emergency only, dial 000. In all other cases, phone the local service for Yungaburra:Ambulance (07) or 131233
Hospital (07)
Police (07) 4095 3520
