Cairns

In a region known for its breath-taking beauty and unique natural wonders, it's fair to say that Cairns is one of the brightest jewels in Far North Queensland's crown.

Considered to be the major gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns has evolved into a multi-national city where fun, fine dining and adventure go hand in hand.

If you haven't yet been fortunate enough to discover Cairns, then you're long overdue for a truly special holiday.

What are the must-see attractions in Cairns?

With both domestic and international connections, Cairns is a regional hub that has seen an exceptional growth in tourism over recent years, and it's no surprise as to why. With a vibrant nightlife, relaxed cafe culture, boutique shopping and some of the best seafood available, you'll find it hard to consider leaving the city itself. We suggest you do though, for if there's one thing the Cairns region is well known for, it's for its dazzling array of must-see attractions.

Unsurprisingly a visit to the Great Barrier Reef should be on top of anyone's travel list. Whether you dive, snorkel or simply view from above in a glass bottom boat, there's more than one way to experience this iconic attraction.

Literally tens of millions of years older than the Amazon and stretching over 1,200 square km, the Daintree Rainforest - just north of Port Douglas - is the world's oldest rainforest and is full of fauna and flora that is literally found nowhere else on the planet. It's no wonder why the iconic David Attenborough declared it to be "the most extraordinary place on earth".

Host to such sites as Cassowary Falls and Mossman Gorge (a 56,000 hectare area within the Daintree where you can swim in clear refreshing waters), The Daintree is truly a bucket list destination. While you're there, you can also head further north to Cape Tribulation for some exceptional scenery, though be sure to follow any signs concerning swimming.

Fancy something cooler? Then head north for 30km to Kuranda, a mountain village that offers a more pleasant change to sea-level temperatures. Kuranda is known for its stunning Scenic Railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Barron Gorge.

As well as ocean based activities on the reef such as snorkelling, diving and deep sea fishing, tempt yourself with white water rafting in Barron Gorge, hot air ballooning, sailing, kayaking, bungy jumping and horseback riding, all within easy reach of Cairns.

Also, be sure to stop by Palm Cove and Port Douglas - two destinations well worth inspecting for your next holiday to the far north.