The drive up the Captain Cook Highway from Cairns, en route to the Daintree Rainforest, has to be one of the most exhilarating road trips in Australia. The highway hugs the undulating coastline, beautifully sandwiched between two world-heritage-listed natural phenomena that people travel across the world to experience: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
© Daintree Ecolodge
On one side of us, the hot sun makes the massive expanse of ocean glitter like a field of sapphires and diamonds, and on the other, the rainforest cloaks the towering mountains that seem to change shape as the shadows of heavy cumulus clouds roll over them. Way down the line, Cape Tribulation juts out into the sea like a gigantic half-submerged green turtle, the fine line of white sand like its soft underbelly.
We’ve promised ourselves that we’ll put our tech gadgets away, so the iPhones have been ditched and we snap away with the trusty old SLR, capturing this magical part of Australia that lures in four-wheel-drivers like bees to honey. There’s a steady line of them ahead of us – the roof-racks piled with tents, kayaks and surfboards, and the mountain bikes hanging on the back are sure signs that this part of the world was made for adventure and getting back to nature.
Downtime at the Daintree Ecolodge
I love the sound of wild birds chirruping away to their heart’s content – not only is it a sign of a healthy, thriving environment, it usually means that I’ve escaped the city to a place where nature reigns.
Turning off the road and driving into the magical grounds of the Daintree Ecolodge, I’m struck by the sound of thousands of happy birds in the jungle canopies. As I look up, I notice several architecturally designed cabins peeking out of their verdant hiding places.
Wooden stairwells, storybook bridges and quaint seating nooks for two can be seen here and there, the surrounding tropical gardens and towering Jurassic-era fern trees transforming them into picture-perfect postcards brought to life by the flurry of bird wings, the croaking of frogs and the clickety chirping of geckos. Together it’s a chorus of the tropics.
We check into a Canopy Treehouse room, and as we step through the door we’re met by a spacious, light-filled bedroom that connects to a screened balcony with a daybed for evening relaxation. It’s the little touches that make the experience, such as a range of amenities from Made Wild exclusive to the lodge, and yoga mats tucked away near the door in case we want to join a morning session.
The Daintree Ecolodge was one of the first of its kind when it opened Australia in the 1980s, and it has always championed indulgence with a conscience, with its managers past and present aiming to make a positive contribution to the local environment and community.
Guests are always encouraged to make use of the facilities, including the wellness spa inspired by Indigenous wisdom and the healing properties of Australian native botanicals. We’re confidently told that the Yulmbarril (‘welcome’ in the language of the local Kuku Yalanji people) package is a favourite, featuring a tailored massage followed by a facial customised to your skin’s needs using native botanicals and oils.
Julaymba Restaurant at Daintree Ecolodge
All produce in the retreat’s Julaymba Restaurant is locally sourced, and it is one of the finest dining spots that the Daintree has to offer. Enjoy lemon myrtle pancakes with vanilla mascarpone and house made granola for breakfast, spicy kangaroo tartare for dinner, and much more. The experienced chefs can also whip up a private six-course degustation dinner, complete with the best seasonal ingredients. Plus, unwind after an adventure-filled day in the Daintree Rainforest with crafted cocktails and both local and international wine and spirits. You won’t want to miss out on this delicious food spot.
© Daintree Ecolodge
While the restaurant also serves a delicious lunch, many guests prefer to order a locally sourced hamper or tasting platter. The picnic hamper comes with a variety of Australian cheeses, charcuterie, salad, a seasonal mix of tropical fruit and more, while the indulgence platter is elevated with Daintree chocolate brownies and a bottle of premium Australian sparkling wine.
You’ll never want to leave your suite, tucked up into the canopies where the bird song is more joyous than ever, but down in the restaurant, bar and living space, you’ll feel just as relaxed. The staff are as welcoming as friends, and the views, wherever you sit, are nothing short of spectacular.
For more to explore in the Daintree, check out our guide to the top adventure activities in and around Cairns.
Rex flies to Cairns. Book your flights HERE and check out the route map below for more details.
