Places to VisitTownsville is a progressive and modern tropical city, framed by 2.5km of world class beachfront, The Strand. The city is situated in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and is centred on one of the country’s most diverse regions. Bounded by the plentiful fishing region of the Burdekin to the south, the topical hinterlands stretching to Mission Beach in the north and the outback ranges and gold mining heritage town of Charters Towers in the west and tropical Magnetic Island only a 25 minute ferry transfer to the east, North Queensland offers a host of unique holiday options. Townsville offers more than 300 sunny days each year - perfect weather to enjoy a diversity of experiences that range from the excitement of bull-riding and ‘barra’ fishing, to the magic of Magnetic Island, the historical charm of Charters Towers and the breathtaking rainforest of the Paluma Ranges. Enjoy the spectacular Strand in the heart of Townsville city - 2.5km of beachfront boulevard lined with restaurants, cafes, bars, barbeque/picnic areas, swimming enclosures/pools, sporting and recreational facilities, walking paths and the only water playground of its kind in Australia - all with sweeping view across Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island. Magnetic Island is just 30 minutes from the city centre by fast catamaran ferry, or 40 minutes by car ferry if you wish to take your own vehicle. Here, more than 2,000 koalas roam free in an idyllic tropical setting offering superb views, palm-fringed beaches, a wide variety of accommodation and plenty to see and do, including bush walks to inspect World War II fortifications. To experience the great Aussie Outback and the flavour of the goldrush era, take a tour or drive 135 kilometres west from Townsville to the heritage centre of Charters Towers. This is a city of history and charm that boomed following the 1872 discovery of gold in the area by an Aboriginal boy, Jupiter Mosman. Visitors can now relive the legends and history of this bygone era through the new ‘Ghosts of Gold’ experience, by panning for gold and visiting a host of other attractions in and around the city. While out west also visit the heritage town of Ravenswood. Take a visit to the cemetery, or visit Woody at the Courthouse Museum and watch his face light up as he relays amazing stories of the past. The Imperial Hotel and the Railway Hotel stand proudly in the main street and promise to impress you while relaxing with locals over a cold beer and great food. Ayr and Home Hill in the Burdekin region boasts magnificent waterways with bird life and top fishing spots. Ingham - known for its vibrant Italian culture with authentic Italian restaurants and delicatessens - provides access to Wallaman Falls, Australia’s largest sheer drop waterfall. The seaside village of Cardwell is home to dugongs which inhabit the marine parks and overlooks Hinchinbrook Island - Australia’s largest island National Park. The Hinchinbrook Channel is a favourite spot for North Queensland fisherman. Head just a little further north and experience Mission Beach - 14km of palm fringed beaches with water sports, restaurants, arts, crafts and access to Dunk, Bedarra and Orpheus Islands. Experience the charm of Island, Outback, Reef and Rainforest "Life in the Tropics" and make your way to Townsville in North Queensland today! Accessible TourismWe consider ourselves "access friendly" in North Queensland and visitors with special needs are warmly welcomed. We have a range of accommodation properties, attractions, services and facilities that are functional for visitors with special needs. For a guide to access friendly operators and establishments, call Townsville Enterprise on 1800 801 902 for further information. |
