Solo Adventure on Hinchinbrook Island

Day 1: Discovering Hinchinbrook's Untamed Beauty

After months of planning and anticipation, I finally arrived on Hinchinbrook Island! The journey from Berlin, with a stopover in Brisbane and a connecting flight to Cairns, felt like a world away from my everyday life. Now, standing on the shores of this natural paradise, I'm ready to immerse myself in the wild beauty of Queensland's largest island national park.

The ferry ride from Cairns was smooth, offering glimpses of the mainland fading into the horizon. The air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the crisp autumn air I left behind in Berlin. As we approached the island, the towering peaks of Hinchinbrook rose majestically from the sea, shrouded in mist. It felt like stepping into a scene from Jurassic Park, a feeling reinforced by the island's lush vegetation and rugged terrain.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

My first stop was the Hinchinbrook Island National Park. I was eager to get a sense of the island's diverse ecosystems. As someone who appreciates nature and sustainability, I was immediately impressed by the park's commitment to preserving its pristine environment. The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service does a fantastic job maintaining the trails and campsites, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the island's beauty responsibly.


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

Before venturing into the park, I made a quick stop at Friends Of The Wild, a local shop, to pick up a few last-minute supplies. I needed to replace the insect repellent I had forgotten to pack. The shop owner was incredibly helpful, offering tips on the best trails and warning me about the local wildlife. He also told me about the challenging seasonal hiking conditions from October to April, but I was undeterred.


Discover unique gifts and fashion treasures at Friends Of The Wild, your go-to boutique in Ingham, Queensland for stylish souvenirs and homewares.

For breakfast, I decided to treat myself at Lucinda Cove Resort. The resort is perfectly situated near the marina, offering stunning views of the Hinchinbrook Channel. I enjoyed a hearty meal while watching the local fishermen prepare for their day's work. The resort had a relaxed atmosphere, with many guests gearing up for their own adventures on the island. Lucinda Cove Resort seems to be a popular choice for those embarking on the Thorsborne Trail, given its proximity to the departure point. The reviews I had read highlighted the clean rooms and excellent waterfront views.


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

After breakfast, I set off to explore the Hinchinbrook Lookout. The drive to the lookout was an experience in itself, winding through dense rainforest and offering occasional glimpses of the coastline. When I reached the top, I was rewarded with a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding Coral Sea. The lookout provided a perfect vantage point to appreciate the island's unique geography, with its cloud-covered mountains and mangrove-lined channels. From there, I could see the southern end of Hinchinbrook Island and the Hinchinbrook Channel.


Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Hinchinbrook Lookout, the scenic treasure of Queensland, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

For lunch, I stopped at Terry and Mamiko's in Cardwell. This eatery is known for its delicious fish and chips and warm, inviting atmosphere. I savored my meal while enjoying the breathtaking views across to Hinchinbrook Island. Terry and Mamiko's prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, and I could certainly taste the difference. The cafe's location in Cardwell made it an ideal spot to relax after exploring the nearby attractions.


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

After lunch, I decided to explore the town of Cardwell a bit. It has a relaxed, small-town charm that I found quite appealing. I learned that Cardwell was gearing up for the Seafest, a local festival celebrating the sea and community spirit. Unfortunately, I will miss it since it already took place earlier in October.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Vista Hinchinbrook for dinner. This bed and breakfast, nestled on the Cardwell Range, offered stunning views of Hinchinbrook Island and the Hinchinbrook Channel. The hosts, Ian and Trish, were incredibly welcoming, sharing their local knowledge and ensuring I had everything I needed. The cabin was clean, tidy, and modern, with a huge deck perfect for soaking in the views. The continental breakfast was a fresh spread of pastries, bread, fruits, and yogurts, all locally made.


Discover serenity at Vista Hinchinbrook - a charming bed & breakfast surrounded by Queensland's stunning landscapes.

During dinner, I chatted with Ian and Trish about the island's history and the challenges of preserving its natural beauty. They shared stories of the local wildlife, including the elusive mahogany glider and the majestic cassowary. They also recommended some hidden gems to explore during my stay, including Wallaman Falls, Australia's highest single-drop waterfall.

As I settled into my campsite for the night, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Hinchinbrook Island had already exceeded my expectations, and I knew that the coming days would be filled with even more adventure and discovery. The sounds of the rainforest lulled me to sleep, and I drifted off dreaming of the Thorsborne Trail and the pristine beaches that awaited me.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I am excited to start hiking the Thorsborne Trail in Hinchinbrook Island National Park, and see Zoe Falls. I will make sure to have breakfast at Hotel Hinchinbrook, have lunch at Marine Hotel, and dinner at Lucinda Cove Resort. I might even check out Channel Inn Bar and Bistro, but I will see how tired I am after the hike.

Before drifting off to sleep, I double-checked my gear for tomorrow's hike. I made sure I had plenty of water, sunscreen, and my trusty camera. I also reminded myself to be mindful of the local wildlife, especially the crocodiles and marine stingers. With a deep breath, I zipped up my tent and embraced the darkness, eager for the adventures that awaited me on day two.

I am excited to see what the next 13 days bring!