While the coastal drive to Port Douglas is one of the most scenic routes in Australia, the drive to Cape Tribulation - where World Heritage rainforest really does meet the sea - is one of the most scenic roads in the world.

Lookouts along the way are worth stopping at, but if you're staying at Cape Tribulation Resort and Spa you really want to just hurry up and get there.

Tucked among nature, the eco-tourism rainforest resort is the perfect place to be to explore the heart of the ancient Daintree rainforest, home to 85 of the world's 120 rarest species of plants.

The resort also is on the doorstep of Coconut Beach, one of the best – if not THE best – beaches in the region.

It’s also just 2.5km from Cape Tribulation village, which was definitely top on our list of must-do things. But to start with, we just wanted to chill out in our quiet Rainforest Retreat cabin in the heart of the Daintree, enjoy our fantastic accommodation while listening to the rainforest creatures rustling around in the forest and soaking up the sounds of the waves lapping up on shore at Coconut Beach. Within seconds of our arrival we were more relaxed than we had been in a very long while. We enjoyed a drink in our cabin before we set off exploring the fabulous resort with its two pools, the relaxing Oceans Day spa and the amazing Coconut Beach.

Coconut Beach is one of the most secluded beaches we’ve ever been to and it’s also the most awe-inspiring. We were absolutely thrilled to have the beach to ourselves. It is incredibly private – 100 people could be there and you’d not be anywhere near each other. And while we were impressed with the beach, we also were really blown away by the majestic presence of Alexandra Range, which towers over the southern end.

The time spent on the beach flew by and before we knew it, it was time to return to our cosy cabin to get ready for dinner.

We strolled through the rainforest to the open-plan Cape Restaurant where we had absolute divine a la carte meals superbly cooked by head chef Anita Robinson. Her food was just outstanding and enjoying it outside on the deck listening to the sounds of the beach and taking in the smells of the rainforest was the perfect way to enjoy such a fantastic feast.

After dinner we went back to Coconut Beach and were overwhelmed by the striking beauty of the brilliant night sky. We could literally see billions of stars, planets, constellations and even shooting stars. We’ve never had the pleasure of viewing a night sky with such depth and clarity before and it’s something we’ll never forget.

Going to sleep to the soothing sounds of the waves and the fresh rainforest smells was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

After a yummy buffet breakfast the next morning, and another walk on the beach, we explored Cape Tribulation Resort and Spa’s sister property, Ferntree Rainforest Lodge which is a perfect spot for families and backpackers with its vast array of accommodation options – airconditioned dormitory-style rooms with ensuites, poolside rooms and family-size garden lofts. It also has two swimming pools, a barbecue area, kitchen and a large lounge area with games and television for those who want to socialise with others.

We headed back to our retreat at Cape Tribulation Resort and Spa to enjoy the rest of the morning before we reluctantly had to leave. The only saving grace leaving that beautiful spot was that amazing drive back to Cairns.

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