Taking on The Cape

Doing the Cape is a dream for many outdoor loving off-road drivers and what better car to do it in but an Ex-Military Land rover Perentie. The trick to the Cape is doing it over a longer period of time to fully experience the 1,028km trip from Cairns and enjoy all the stops and beauty’s the Australian bush and coastal roads have to offer. Some memorable mentions along the trip that we recommend include: Daintree rainforest, Lion’s Den Hotel in Wujal, Old Telegraph Track, Fruit Bat Falls, The Croc Tent and finally Thursday island.

Daintree Rainforest: the Daintree is the largest single rainforest in Australia and is protected by a world heritage-listing. It is hypothesised to be the 3^rd oldest rainforest in the whole world and has a diverse and large abundance of wildlife that’s hard to miss. There are plenty of activities when visiting this wonder including: hikes, creak swims and horse back riding. Really a must visit if the chance arises.

Lion’s Den Hotel in Wujal: This Pub is an icon and representation of classic Australian hearty pubs. With the stereotypical look of any true country pub it is a good watering hole to visit after a long day out. Considered one of the most popular things on Helenvale Bloomfield Road we would definitely recommend checking out this Australian Classic.

Old Telegraph Track: Old telegraph track features some of the best and more challenging 4WDing on the Cape trip. With an abundance of river crossings make sure to wear your swimmers, the old telegraph track is what is left from the original telegraph track used to connect cairns and Thursday Island in the 1880’s and should only be tackled in the dry season unless you drive a submarine.

Fruit Bat Falls: An iconic stop on the Old Telegraph Track and a nice spot for a swim and RnR. The falls provides crystal clear waters and a nice deserved break from the mud and dust. Close by and also worth a mention is the likewise Eliot Falls which although a bit of a detour, provides a wonderful and beautiful swimming hole. The abundance of these beautiful creaks is the reason that we recommend taking your time on this track.

The Croc Tent: The Croc Tent is an iconic souvenir spot on the Cape featuring a large and (definitely) real croc situated outside. The tent has been around since the early 80’s and situated on the tip top of the Cape York peninsula it represents that the adventurer has completed their journey (somewhat) and stands as a long-held tradition of the trip.

Thursday Island: Although it isn’t exactly on the direct path of the York trip, Thursday Island provides a good history lessons and insight into involvement and support of Torres Strait people during WW2. Along with the picturesque sights, there is a thriving pearling industry that also provides good entertainment for an afternoon! If you love island and beach life and beautiful sights, we definitely recommend checking it out.