Beyond the grounds of Ardo an unexpected paradise is waiting to be explored.

North Queensland’s largely undiscovered spoils will delight adventurous travellers keen to experience the reef, rainforest and outback far from the tourist crowds.

The Coral Gardens is just one of the MOUA installations. It combines marine science, coral gardening, and environmental art.

The Museum of Underwater Art

Explore beneath the surface and discover MOUA; an underwater art museum in the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Townsville.

You’ll find sculptures by famed creator Jason deCaires Taylor which have evolved to living art and now house coral and marine creatures.

This surreal art installation can be explored by snorkelling and diving with several operators offering tours.

Sealink Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive

Hire an iconic “Barbie” car to explore Magnetic Island with the salty wind in your hair.

Magnetic Island

A 30 minute ferry ride from Townsville lies Magnetic Island or “Maggie” as it’s known by the locals. This island paradise has rocky outcrops, sandy bays and offshore coral gardens waiting to be explored.

The island is home to a variety of hikes including the Forts Walk where you can find World War II relics. Keep your eyes on the tree line and you might spot a koala munching on some gum leaves.

SeaLink operates a ferry service to Magnetic Island seven days a week, 365 days of the year.

Sealink

Wallaman Falls in Girringun National Park is about a two hour drive from Townsville. It’s off the regular tourist track so hiring your own private car is recommended. Image: Melissa Findley

Wallaman Falls

Hit the road and head north west where you’ll be rewarded with Wallaman Falls hidden amongst dense rainforest. The towering falls hold the title of being the longest, permanent single-drop waterfall in Australia at 268m tall.

The falls can be viewed from a lookout or pack your hiking boots and trek to the bottom to view them in all their thundering glory.

Wallaman Falls

Texas Longhorns are the old west cattle that were the salvation of Texas back in late 1800’s and as a result, the legend of the cowboy was born.

Charters Towers

Take a trip back in time to when the west was wild and visit the Texas Longhorn Bulls just outside of Charters Towers.

See some of the longest horned bulls in Australia on a horse drawn wagon tour and enjoy an outback experience.

The township of Charters Towers is also worth venturing into with it’s historic buildings and gold rush origins.

Texas Longhorns Charters Towers

At Townsville’s heart lies a thriving metropolitan hub abundant with North Queensland charm.

Castle Hill Lookout is a steep 40 minute walk or it can be accessed by road. You’ll find panaromic views at the top. Image: Katie Purling

The City of Townsville

Explore Townsville’s urban centre. Browse the boutiques on Gregory Street, grab a gelato on the picturesque Strand or trek up Castle Hill.

Shopping & Markets The Strand Castle Hill

Luxury is redefined for those who seek style and substance in perfect balance.

Book a stay in one of our sprawling suites. Perfectly placed to worship every movement of the sun, allowing the spectacle of North Queensland to stretch out from bedside to the horizon.

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