Family Adventure on Hinchinbrook Island: Exploring Australia's Natural Gem

Welcome to Hinchinbrook Island!

After what felt like an eternity of planning and anticipation, our family adventure to Hinchinbrook Island in Australia has finally begun! The journey from Heidelberg was long, but the excitement bubbling within us kept our spirits high. As we stepped onto the island, the humid, tropical air embraced us, a stark contrast to the crisp autumn days we left behind in Germany. The scent of eucalyptus and saltwater filled our lungs, instantly signaling that we were in a world far removed from our everyday lives. I am eager to share our first day's experiences with you, from the delicious local cuisine to the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounded us. Let the adventure begin!

The journey itself was quite the experience. After our flight into Townsville, we made our way to Lucinda, the gateway to Hinchinbrook. The drive gave us a taste of the vast Australian landscape, with its seemingly endless horizons and unique flora. Arriving in Lucinda, we immediately felt the laid-back, small-town vibe. It’s a charming place, and I could already tell that the locals have a deep connection to the island. We had a quick stop at Lucinda Store to grab some last-minute essentials – mostly snacks for Sofia, who was already asking about when we'd see kangaroos. It's amazing how a simple convenience store can offer such a sense of place, with its shelves stocked with local products and the friendly chatter of the staff.


Discover convenience at Lucinda Store, your one-stop shop for essentials, snacks, and local flavors in beautiful Lucinda, Queensland.

Our first official meal in Australia was breakfast at Lucinda Cove Resort, where we enjoyed the view of the Hinchinbrook Channel. I opted for a classic Aussie breakfast with eggs, bacon, and grilled tomatoes, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty serving of pancakes. Sofia, of course, chose the fruit salad, carefully selecting each piece as if she were a tiny food critic. The resort had a really nice vibe, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, setting a positive tone for our entire stay.


Discover tranquility at Lucinda Cove Resort - where coastal beauty meets comfort in Queensland's stunning landscape.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we headed to the ferry for our transfer to Hinchinbrook Island National Park. The ferry ride itself was an event, offering stunning views of the channel and the island's rugged coastline. The anticipation grew with each passing minute as we approached the island, its silhouette rising majestically from the sea. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale and untouched beauty of Hinchinbrook.


Discover untouched wilderness, pristine beaches, and world-class hiking in Australia's largest island national park.

Once on the island, we immediately set out to explore a small section of the Thorsborne Trail. We knew we wouldn't be able to do the whole trail today, especially with Sofia, but we wanted to get a taste of what it had to offer. The trail was a mix of sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and lush rainforest, offering a diverse landscape that kept us constantly engaged. The December heat was definitely something to get used to, but the occasional sea breeze provided a welcome respite.


Hike the Thorsborne Trail: A world-class, 32km coastal trek through Hinchinbrook Island's diverse landscapes. Book your permit in advance!

Sofia was in her element, scampering ahead on the trail, her little legs carrying her with surprising speed. She was fascinated by every little creature we encountered, from the colorful butterflies flitting through the trees to the tiny crabs scurrying across the sand. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was busy capturing the stunning scenery, his camera clicking away as he tried to capture the essence of this natural paradise.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

I found myself reflecting on why we chose Hinchinbrook for our family adventure. It wasn't just about escaping the ordinary; it was about immersing ourselves in a place where nature reigns supreme, where the simple act of walking through the rainforest can feel like a profound experience. I am always seeking destinations that offer both adventure and tranquility, and Hinchinbrook seemed to promise exactly that. Plus, the idea of camping under the stars, away from the distractions of modern life, was incredibly appealing.

After our hike, we decided to cool off with a swim in one of the island's pristine creeks. The water was crystal clear and refreshingly cool, providing the perfect antidote to the humid heat. Sofia squealed with delight as she splashed around, her laughter echoing through the trees. It was one of those perfect family moments that I knew we would cherish forever.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Lucinda, feeling tired but incredibly content. We had dinner at Terry and Mamiko's, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. The grilled barramundi was absolutely divine, and Maximilian raved about his prawns. Sofia, predictably, devoured her fish and chips, declaring it the best meal ever.


Discover delicious fish & chips at Terry and Mamiko's in Cardwell – where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views!

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by the Lucinda Store again, this time to pick up some supplies for our camping trip tomorrow. I also couldn't resist buying a small souvenir, a hand-painted magnet of a cassowary, as a reminder of our first day on Hinchinbrook. I really wanted to buy a new dress from Lucinda Store, but I will do it tomorrow.

Back at our accommodation, as I sit down to write this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible opportunity. Hinchinbrook Island has already exceeded my expectations, and I am excited to see what the rest of our adventure holds. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Mulligan Falls and Zoe Falls, and I am particularly looking forward to swimming in the natural infinity pool at the top of Zoe Falls. It promises to be another day filled with natural beauty and unforgettable experiences. I am also excited to visit Friends Of The Wild, a shop that I read about.

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration. Hinchinbrook, you have captured our hearts already!

Oh, and I almost forgot! I did have one minor mishap today. In my rush to pack, I completely forgot to bring our waterproof jackets! Luckily, the Lucinda Store had some basic ones available, but they're not quite as high-quality as the ones we have at home. I also realized I forgot my binoculars and an extra memory card for my camera. Note to self: always double-check the packing list!

Good night from Hinchinbrook Island!

P.S. I have to mention one funny incident from today. While we were hiking, Sofia spotted a rather large spider and, without missing a beat, declared, That's a German spider! I had to explain that spiders don't have nationalities, but she was convinced it had somehow followed us all the way from Heidelberg. It's moments like these that make traveling with kids so special – their unfiltered perspective and boundless imagination always keep things interesting.