Atherton is the commercial hub and jewel in the crown of the Cairns Highlands (Atherton Tablelands) the plateau behind the mountains that form part of the backdrop to the city of Cairns.

Separating the moist, humid coastal strip from the dry Queensland outback, the Cairns Highlands, with its rich red volcanic soil, enjoys high rainfall and (because of its altitude) cool weather.

With a population of approximately 10,000, and located not much more than a leisurely hour's drive from Cairns, Atherton can be accessed by either the Kennedy Highway through Kuranda and Mareeba, or by the Gillies Highway which turns off from Gordonvale, to the south of Cairns.

Both highways are fully sealed and ascend the mountains through the magnificent World Heritage listed wet tropics rainforests, where a number of lookouts give the traveller opportunity to photograph the spectacular panoramic views.

Atherton and its surrounds has much to offer the visitor with regard to things to see and do.




Phone: 07 4091 4222