Things to do in Tablelands

Discover the Tablelands, a captivating region nestled in the heart of Queensland, Australia. This verdant paradise offers a refreshing escape from the coastal bustle, inviting you to explore its lush landscapes, charming towns, and unique natural wonders. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life, the Tablelands promises an unforgettable journey. Book your flights and accommodation to this enchanting destination with Traveloka and start planning your Australian adventure today.

Why Visit Tablelands?

What Tablelands Is Famous For

The Tablelands are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, including ancient rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic crater lakes. It's a haven for biodiversity, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature immersion. The region also boasts a rich agricultural heritage, with fertile lands producing everything from coffee and tea to tropical fruits and dairy. This agricultural bounty translates into a vibrant food scene, with local produce taking centre stage.

Top Highlights You Shouldn't Miss

• The Atherton Tablelands themselves, a vast plateau offering panoramic views and diverse ecosystems.
• The stunning waterfalls, such as Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls, and Ellinjaa Falls, perfect for a refreshing dip or a picturesque photo.
• The volcanic crater lakes, like Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine, offering serene beauty and opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife observation.
• The charming heritage towns, each with its own unique character, local crafts, and delicious food offerings.
• The opportunity to sample local produce, from freshly roasted coffee and artisanal cheeses to tropical fruits and locally brewed beers.

Best Time to Visit Tablelands

Weather by Month

The Tablelands enjoy a pleasant subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The dry season, from May to October, offers cooler temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the waterfalls. The wet season, from November to April, brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity, with lush green landscapes and dramatic skies, though some activities might be affected by rain.

Festivals & Peak Periods

While the Tablelands don't have major city-wide festivals, local communities often host smaller events and markets throughout the year, celebrating local produce and culture. Peak periods generally align with Australian school holidays (January, April, July, September/October, and December), when accommodation and popular attractions may be busier. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekdays.

Top Things to Do in Tablelands

Attractions & Landmarks

• Millaa Millaa Falls: A truly iconic waterfall, famous for its perfect curtain of water. Take a refreshing swim or capture that postcard-perfect photo. (Starting from $cheapestPrice for local tours)
• Lake Eacham: A stunning volcanic crater lake surrounded by rainforest. Enjoy swimming in its clear, cool waters, picnicking, or spotting turtles and platypus.
• Paronella Park: Explore the enchanting ruins of a Spanish-style castle set amidst tropical gardens, complete with waterfalls and a mystical ambiance.
• Herberton Historic Village: Step back in time at this open-air museum showcasing over 50 restored buildings from the region's past.
• Skybury Coffee Plantation: Tour a working coffee plantation, learn about the coffee-making process, and savour some of the freshest coffee you'll ever taste.
• Curtain Fig Tree: Marvel at this ancient strangler fig with its impressive aerial roots, a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.
• Malanda Falls: The largest of the Tablelands waterfalls, offering a beautiful cascade and a nearby wildlife park.

Activities & Experiences

• Waterfall Circuit: Embark on a scenic drive to visit the most famous waterfalls in the region, including Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Ellinjaa Falls.
• Hot Air Ballooning: Experience breathtaking sunrise views over the Tablelands from a hot air balloon.
• Cheese and Wine Tasting: Indulge in the region's gourmet offerings with visits to local dairies, wineries, and artisanal food producers.
• Rainforest Walks: Explore the ancient rainforests on well-maintained walking trails, keeping an eye out for unique flora and fauna.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the Tablelands offer incredible opportunities for stargazing.

Neighborhoods & Areas of Tablelands

The Tablelands is a region rather than a single city, comprised of several charming towns and distinct areas, each offering a unique flavour:

• Atherton: The commercial hub of the Tablelands, offering a good range of shops, cafes, and services. It's a great base for exploring the wider region.
• Malanda: Known for its historic hotel and the beautiful Malanda Falls, this town offers a relaxed atmosphere and a gateway to the surrounding rainforest.
• Millaa Millaa: Famous for its spectacular waterfall, this small town is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
• Yungaburra: A picturesque heritage town with a vibrant arts and crafts scene, charming cafes, and the famous Curtain Fig Tree nearby.
• Mareeba: Located on the edge of the Tablelands, Mareeba is the gateway to the region and a centre for coffee and mango production.

For those looking to explore further, consider day trips to the nearby coastal city of Cairns ($otherGeoInDestination1) or the Daintree Rainforest ($otherGeoInDestination2).

Getting to Tablelands

By Air

The nearest major airport is Cairns Airport (CNS), located approximately 1.5 hours' drive from the Atherton Tablelands. Numerous airlines operate flights to Cairns from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. From Cairns Airport, you can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to reach your accommodation in the Tablelands.

By Ground Transport

If you're travelling from other parts of Queensland or Australia, driving is a popular option. The Tablelands are accessible via well-maintained roads. From Cairns, the most direct route is via the Gillies Highway or the Kuranda Range Road, both offering scenic drives. Car rental is highly recommended for exploring the Tablelands at your own pace.

Getting Around Tablelands

Public Transport

Public transport within the Tablelands is limited. While some towns have local bus services, they are infrequent and may not cover all attractions. For comprehensive exploration, relying solely on public transport is not recommended.

Taxi, Rideshare & Car Rental

Car rental is the most convenient way to explore the Tablelands. Numerous car rental companies operate from Cairns Airport and within Cairns city. Taxis and rideshare services are available in the larger towns like Atherton and Mareeba, but may be scarce in smaller villages. Hiring a car allows you the flexibility to stop at scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and local producers at your leisure.

Food & Dining in Tablelands

Local Dishes to Try

The Tablelands is a foodie's paradise, celebrating fresh, local produce. Don't miss trying:

• Atherton Tablelands Coffee: Sample locally grown and roasted coffee beans.
• Tropical Fruits: Indulge in seasonal fruits like mangoes, avocados, and passionfruit.
• Local Cheeses: Many dairies offer delicious artisanal cheeses.
• Fresh Seafood: While inland, the proximity to the coast means fresh seafood is often available.
• Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Many restaurants pride themselves on using ingredients sourced directly from local farms.

Best Areas to Eat

Each town offers its own culinary delights. Atherton has a good selection of cafes and restaurants. Yungaburra is known for its charming cafes and eateries. Millaa Millaa offers local country-style dining. For a truly local experience, visit the farmers' markets held regularly in various towns to sample fresh produce and homemade treats.

Insider Tips for Tablelands

• Pack insect repellent, especially if you plan on hiking or visiting rainforest areas.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
• Bring a reusable water bottle; many towns have water refill stations.
• Check the opening hours of attractions and local producers, as they can vary, especially on weekends and public holidays.
• Allow ample time for spontaneous stops at scenic lookouts and roadside stalls.
• Consider purchasing a local map or using a GPS device for navigation, as mobile reception can be patchy in some areas.
• Embrace the relaxed pace of life and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you.

More Things to Do Near Tablelands

• Cairns: Explore the vibrant Esplanade, enjoy the city's dining scene, or use it as a base for Great Barrier Reef tours.
• Daintree Rainforest: Discover the world's oldest tropical rainforest, cruise the Daintree River, and visit Cape Tribulation.
• Port Douglas: A sophisticated coastal town offering beautiful beaches, boutique shopping, and access to the Great Barrier Reef.
• Kuranda: A charming village nestled in the rainforest, accessible by scenic railway or cableway, offering markets and wildlife attractions.

The Tablelands offers a unique blend of natural wonders, agricultural charm, and relaxed country living. From cascading waterfalls to rich coffee plantations, this Queensland gem provides a refreshing and enriching travel experience. Book your flights and accommodation to the Tablelands on Traveloka and discover the magic of this enchanting region for yourself.