23 May, 2022
The tropical landscape of Innisfail can make you fall in love with nature and beauty. The regional town is in the Cassowary Coast Region of Queenslandand is known for its lush green campgrounds, golf courses, museums, and galleries. It offers stunning views,delectable food, adrenaline-pumping activitiesand an enchanting melange of captivating architecture, tropical rainforest,and a breath-taking coastline.
The town is a preferred tourist hotspot because of its proximity to the Wooroonooran National Park, which boasts of the spectacular Mamu Canopy Walkway and exciting walking trails across the Misty Mountains. Its pristine beaches, cascading waterfalls, and serene freshwater creeks are other attractions that make a trip to this place worthwhile.
Innisfail is famous for its sugar and banana industries, and the highest peak in Queensland is only 15 km away from the town. One of the wettest places in Australia, the town has a small population of 7,236 people and is known for its cyclones. The most appealing spots that should not be missed by tourists when coming o the town include:
• Etty BayThe sun-drenched Etty Bay is positioned between the rainforest and offers a mesmerising beach holiday to travellers and locals who wish to soak up the scenic views. The picturesque beach gives a peek into the natural wonder of the ocean meeting the forest.
It is also the best place for spotting the largest flightless bird in Australia, called the Southern Cassowary. They can be seen roaming around the beach and do not mind the visitors enjoying the sun and the sand. Tourists can also stay in the caravan park, campsites and cabins in the woodsovernight for an exhilarating experience.
• Paronella ParkPositioned next to Mena Creek Falls, the Paronella Park was built by Jose Paronella. Covered in rich foliage and tropical trees, the 13-acre park includes a magnificent 100-year-old Spanish Castle, tennis courts, a picnic area by the waterfall, lush gardens, bridges and a tunnel.
Constructed in 1929, it was opened tothe public in 1935. The majestic park is home to more than 7,000 plants and trees. A significant feature of the property is that it utilises a hydroelectric power system. Visitors can even enjoy a relaxing tea at the café or wait for the evening to get hypnotised by the Darkness Falls Tour.
• Johnston River CruiseNature lovers can have a field day cruising over the Johnston River in a glass bottom boat that helps to soak up the lush environs of the wet rainforest. It is also a good opportunity to check out the wildlife in the region and take a peek into the life of the crocodiles resting on the banks of the river.
• Mamu Tropical SkywalkAnother fantastic and exciting attraction of Innisfail is the elevated walkway through the Mamu rainforest. The walkway takes you to a 37 metres high observation tower, which offers a splendid panoramic view of the canopy of trees and beautiful vistas.
• Misty Mountains TrailsLosing yourself in the wilderness is one of the best things to do in Innisfail, which is home to the Misty Mountains Wilderness Trails,which consist of four verdant walking trails. Make your way into the Wet Tropics World Heritage region that provides a fascinating view of the woods and its incredible waterfalls and creeks.
The unspoilt wilderness is a treasure trove of everything beautiful, calming and charming. Nothing can beat the excitement of exploring nature in its authentic and pure form here.
• The Innisfail TempleAn architectural marvel, the Innisfail temple is a vibrant Art Deco building that is inviting and relaxing at the same time. The temple of all religions is called Lit Sung Gung and was built in reverence for Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian beliefs and rituals.
However, it is now a place of worship for all faiths and people. The peaceful and comforting temple premises is an excellent place to bring out your spiritual fervour and leave all your worries behind.
• Art Deco and Heritage WalkThe glorious past of Queensland can be easily seen in Innisfail by taking a walk through the town that is dotted with historical sites. Art Deco fans can make the most of their time by admiring the beauty of the edifices along the Cassowary Coast.
Some of the remarkable structures that are hard-to-miss include the Johnstone Shire Hall, the Masonic temple, the Blue Bird Café, the Regent Arcade and more.
Wrapping UpIf you have been planning a trip to Innisfail, prepare an itinerary beforehand that include a visit to all the top attractions. Also, do not forget to savour itsdelicious cuisine and friendly meetings with the locals.