After a brief stop in Mission Beach, my family headed further south along the east coast towards Townsville. The city from which we headed to the beautiful Koala Island, Magnetic Island. The city that is only 2 hours away from Australia's largest waterfalls. And yes, the city that has been voted "Sh*t town of Australia" twice. More about this and what we experienced in today's blog.
BOXIO KITCHEN BUNDLE | Outdoor kitchen
The majestic Wallaman Falls
If you are in the area, i.e. in Townsville, Mission Beach or even just in Cairns, you have to see the Wallaman Falls! Just under 2 hours by car from Townsville and just over 3 hours from Cairns... It's definitely worth the drive to Girringun National Park.
As I said, we started from Mission Beach and the drive was already very eventful. The road winds its way up into the tropical forests and mountains and the views are truly spectacular.
When you arrive at the parking lot of Wallaman Falls, you can already hear the roaring masses of water. Just a few steps away from the parking lot is the lookout, from which you have an elevated full view.
Incidentally, Wallaman Falls has a free fall of 269 meters, making it the highest permanent single waterfall in Australia.
If you fancy more activity, then definitely do the hike to the foot of the waterfall. You should allow at least 45 minutes for the walk. We saw a few very well-equipped hikers with poles and hiking boots. I, as a well-known "wanna-be-Aussie", did the hike barefoot... It wasn't a problem and the reaction of the other Gore-Tex tourists was very funny.
When you arrive in the valley, your breath really stops. The view of the almost 300-metre-high masses of water is simply amazing, majestic and breathtaking. I think you have to see it (if you have the chance).
Magnetic Island - the Koala Island
The next day, we boarded the ferry to Magnetic Island early in the morning. The crossing takes around 35-40 minutes and cost just under $245 for 4 adults and 1 car (return trip). I booked online via Magnetic Island Ferries(www.magneticislandferries.com.au).
There are 7 different hikes to choose from on the island. All of them lead partly through the forest (where you have a good chance of seeing koalas) and usually end at a beautiful little bay where you can refresh yourself perfectly.
(Source: https://www.magneticislandguide.com.au/hiking-walking-trails)
I can definitely recommend the Forts Walk. We spotted 4 koalas in the trees here in a short space of time. The animals are really too cute to watch. But respect their habitat and don't try to pet or feed them!
On the walk you can also see ruins from the 2nd World War. These were built as a defense against Japan and some of them are still well preserved.
After the walk, we drove to Westpoint, the route there was also a bit off-road through the forest and you can see lots of birds and other wild animals. It doesn't take more than 30 minutes to drive across the island, depending on the (tourist) traffic. And even if you don't have your own car, it's no problem. You can hire one of the stylish pink convertibles or e-bikes on Magnetic Island or simply do everything on foot or by bus, which runs every 45-60 minutes to the main towns.
BOXIO - BUDDYBUCH | Friends book for campers
Yes, and Townsville itself ..
That's all well and good, but what about Townsville itself? Is it really Australia's "sh*t town"? We stayed at the Shoredrive Motel for 2 nights. Let me put it this way, the accommodation was very basic, but for the price of $155 for a family room it was fine. The Strand promenade is great for a morning run or walk and we had two very good breakfasts at the Odyssey on the Strand café. Otherwise, I still have fond memories of Castle Hill Lookout from my trip 5 years ago, from where you have a good view over Townsville and the Pacific. Otherwise, I wouldn't plan more than 2 days for Townsville.
If you'd like to find out what happened for us further south in Airlie Beach and on the Whitsunday Islands, then stay tuned and read through the next blog.
Cheers!
Jesko
