Atherton Queensland
Atherton in Queensland is a stately rural town, 50 km south-west of Cairns. Its elevation is generally 800 metres and it is situated on the western side of the Atherton Tableland. Atherton was the administrative centre for the former Atherton Shire and continues that role for the Tablelands Regional Council.
How Atherton got it’s name
The overlander and grazier, John Atherton settled near Mareeba (30 km north of Atherton) in 1876. He chose a spot near the junction of the Barron River and Emerald Creek. Recognised as the European pioneer of the district, his name was given to both the town and the surrounding Tableland.
Most of the towns attractions are at the edges or beyond the town. Exceptions are the very unusual Crystal Cave and the Art Deco Barron Valley Hotel.
The Atherton Tablelands Experience
The unusual Tolga Bat Hospital, the Hou Wang Temple, many parks, lakes and volcanic formations, an integral part of the experience, are beyond the town’s centre.
The intense rich, volcanic soils of the area, estimated to be over 30 metres deep, have been used to produce:
- tobacco,
- maize,
- potatoes,
- peanuts,
- macadamia nuts and
- avocados.
The Atherton Tablelands has a beautiful temperate climate making it an ideal January to December destination. Avoid the rush, and go in the low season (between December and April). The climate is comfortable, free of coastal humidity but still accessible to those coastal areas. Alternatively, come in the high season (between July and November), and feel the heat of our tropical sun!
Visit Hastie Swamp, a two level bird hide that views thousands of birds in their natural habitat. Or visit Crystal Caves in the Main Street of Atherton. Mt Mulligan Escarpment is a must see. The region also hosts a number of antique and arts and craft shops, as well as art studios and galleries. You can spend hours driving around exploring this fascinating region. So, if you are around for a long visit, allow a few days to check everything out properly.
The beautiful, scenic and unspoilt, undulating tableland is between 500 and 1000 metres above the Great Barrier Reef. This area is perfect for self driving tours – you will not be disappointed.
Must-see Attractions in the Atherton Tablelands
The Tablelands include:
- Ancient rainforest,
- volcanic lakes,
- waterfall circuit (including Millaa Millaa Falls),
- Mareeba Wetlands,
- national parks,
- World Heritage listed – wet tropic rainforest areas.
They also include an abundance and diversity of flora and fauna including:
- tree kangaroos,
- platypus,
- brolga,
- rock wallabies,
- kangaroo,
- bandicoot,
- quolls,
- bird life and more.
Guided night spotting tours can be arranged beforehand through your Atherton accommodation.
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Atherton Queensland AUSTRALIA
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