Are you up for the unexpected on your Winter getaway?
Discover something you didn’t know you were looking for or think possible by taking yourself, family and friends to Townsville – whether you are in pursuit of adventure, prefer a leisurely pace or an activity to excite an active mind, there is something for you in this North Queensland haven.
Here’s a guide sure to make your holiday perfect with accommodation, dining and activity suggestions:
Accommodation:
Chasing the European Summer experience, without the international price tag? This is the hotel for you.
Located on the sun-drenched coast of Townsville, Ardo is one of the region’s newest luxury hotels. Featuring 132 suites, two signature restaurants, a day spa and Ardo’s iconic rooftop pool and bar – experience the epitome of North Queensland luxury from the edge of the Coral Sea.
If you’re looking for more of a cosy relaxing off-grid winter getaway, then Hidden Valley Cabins are for you. This multi-award-winning eco-retreat has been family-owned and operated for more than 35 years and is a true hidden gem.
Nestled amongst untouched nature, the retreat is completely off-grid relying solely on solar power and using the pure water filtered and pumped naturally through the earth's granite from Pine Creek.
Spend your days exploring the stunning surroundings on one of the many walking tours, or sign up for one of the wellness retreats which will leave you feeling revitalised and rejuvenated.
Looking for a tranquil kid-free vacay this winter? Kernow is an exciting new development in the heart of North Queensland’s mining and cattle county. Formerly a 1950s government asylum, the original buildings have been carefully restored and set on elevated ground surrounded by 200 acres of untamed land.
Steeped in history but close to the thriving town of Charters Towers, Kernow offers both overnight and short-stay accommodation in both fully-furnished apartments and quirky studio rooms. Currently, only people aged 18 or over can stay at or visit Kernow.
There is no better place to escape the Winter chill than a tropical island! Located on Magnetic Island, 8 km offshore from Townsville, Selina Magnetic Island is a picture-perfect tropical paradise.
Sitting just a 5-minute walk from Horseshoe Bay, guests can explore the breathtaking landscape by water with a snorkel or kayak – or venture to one of the island’s other 23 bays. There are also countless local hiking trails to explore and even an onsite wildlife park where guests can book a tour to meet local Aussie animals.
With rooms to suit high-end travellers, backpackers, solo explorers, and groups, Selina provides an accommodation solution for every budget. From luxury lofts to comfortable suites, micro-rooms, and even campsites.
Eat & Drink:
A lively take on casual Japanese dining, Terasu is a stunning new omakase restaurant, located at the luxurious Adro Hotel. In omakase, Chefs prepare meals on a sushi counter in front of customers, doing demonstrations and explanations as they go.
Terasu Head Chef, Yukio Ozeki is no stranger to creating authentic Japanese sushi, starting as a trainee Chef outside the famous Tsukiji Fish Market of Tokyo. The most popular dishes are the fresh sushi, especially the bluefin tuna flown in from Japan.
Tan Lines is an award-winning distillery committed to creating a range of premium spirits that reflect the vibrant essence of Tropical North Queensland. The gin and vodka are carefully concocted to appeal to both the discerning connoisseur and the adventurous spirit, perfect for any occasion.
Rockpool Pavilion focuses on modern, casual and family-friendly dining. On the plate and in the glass, it fosters a menu using fresh local produce inspired by the ocean on the doorstep. The team creates memorable experiences through a commitment to celebrate every occasion - Rockpool Pavilion also houses Tan Lines Distilling!
Ardo’s signature restaurant Marmor is a celebration of the country’s finest produce. Prime cuts of beef from Australia’s most renowned cattle producers; fresh seafood caught just off rugged coastline and the best seasonal ingredients the region has to offer, paired with an extensive reserved wine list and a Sommelier on-hand to provide wine pairing suggestions.
Located at the top of Hervey Range, the former Eureka Hotel built in 1865 has been restored and now trades as Herveys Range Heritage Tea Rooms. The scenic 25-minute drive from the edge of Townsville leads visitors to one of only a few slab-sided inns left standing in Australia.
The tea rooms offer delicious food and great tea and coffee (including the infamous Kopi Luwak) within the heritage-listed building or in the peaceful garden surroundings.
Explore:
Explore and discover the hidden gems of Magnetic Island and the stunning surrounding region with Big Mama Sailing. With 23 beautiful beaches and bays to choose from visitors can enjoy sailing in paradise without the crowds.
Owned and operated by locals Lisa, Stu, their son Fletcher and little sea dog Coco, visitors can embark on a day trip, overnight charters, or just sail away for two hours into the sunset and feel pleasantly relaxed.
Snorkel and explore the Ocean Sentinels, a captivating series of underwater sculptures that blend human figures with marine elements, fusing art and science. Each sculpture pays tribute to famous marine scientists or conservationists, highlighting their significant contributions to reef protection.
The sculptures transform over time, mirroring the reef's ever-changing nature and resilience.
Come face to face with the charismatic mega marine life of the world-heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef! Onboard the custom-built dive vessels, Yongala Dive offers the fastest way to get to the historic S.S. Yongala Shipwreck.
With accommodation onsite and small dive groups, there’s no better way to explore one of the top 10 dives on the planet.
Paluma Range National Park is the southern gateway for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area - the upland rainforests are crisscrossed by a maze of streams and cascades.
Open eucalypt forests dominate the lower slopes and casuarinas fringe the clear creeks. Set up camp at Big Crystal Creek and explore the surrounding tracks and waterways. Take in the views from McClellands lookout and admire the 1930s stone bridge over Little Crystal Creek.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a refreshing dip in one of the many waterholes – even in Winter!
Get up close and personal with Australia’s furriest friends and cool critters! At The Koala Park by Selina, they offer a range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. From guided park tours to breakfast with koalas, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
