Discover the delights of Daintree Village - a great base for a rainforest holiday.

If there was ever any doubt that great things come in small packages, then the tiny village of Daintree would prove this mantra true. 

With its dramatic mountain backdrop of Thornton’s Peak, the charming “old world” village sits serenely on the southern bank of the Daintree River and makes an impression that belies its population of 200 locals. 

The village sprang into being in the late 1800s as a settlement began by the timber cutters who logged the region’s second “gold” – the red cedars of the rainforests. 

These magnificent forest giants were much prized and the Daintree River formed the aquatic highway by which these riches were removed. In fact, before the road to Mossman was completed in 1933, the only access the residents of the village had was via the river itself. 

Today, the river beside the village is still a key economic player as host to the tour boats which showcase the river’s wildlife of estuarine crocodiles, reptiles large and small and an astounding array of bird species which attracts twitchers from around the globe. 

It is also the place to pull the silver sports fish called barramundi – revered as a catch for both the angler and the plate.

In Daintree Village, the barramundi has pride of place on many a menu and is the most ordered item for lunch or dinner at the restaurants and cafes. 

And yes, it’s extremely fresh.

Chances are the first barra you’ll spot on entering the village is the huge silver fish which presides over the restaurant next to the Timber Museum.

A visit to the museum evokes all the history of the timber times past as this is the only private museum and gallery in Australia dedicated solely to the timber industry. 

And it’s the best place to pick up quality artistry in Queensland timbers as well.

A stroll around the village will take you to artists’ galleries, souvenir shops, a convenience store and a public boat ramp and jetties. 

There is ample choice for accommodation here (luxury resort, B&Bs and budget cabins) and you would go a long way to find a better base for a relaxing rainforest holiday. 

Share this article