Page 94 - Port Douglas Magazine 36

OFF THE

GRID

Daintree Village; a hidden treasure well
worth the visit

WORDS by Byron Filmer PHOTO CREDIT: Reefpix

Up past the turn to the ferry, through Humbug Reach, the Do you feel like waking up to the sounds of the rainforest? Why
Daintree Village lays wedged between the hills surrounded by not book a night at the Daintree Eco Lodge and treat you and your
rainforest just waiting to be explored by those looking to escape signifi cant other to a luxury spa treatment or a romantic dinner
busy streets and crowded footpaths. overlooking the lagoon to sample some of the delicious locally
sourced produce.
LIFE IN THE DAINTREE If you’re the camping type, settle in and stay the night at the
Living in the picturesque Daintree Village for the past 14 years has Daintree Riverview Lodges & Van Park and look over the Daintree
been a remarkable experience. I am fortunate to have grown up in River as you cook up a feast on the BBQ.
such a stunning place. It was a huge change of scenery from where
I moved from in Victoria at two years old. I attended the small While you’re in the Daintree take the opportunity to journey along
Daintree State primary school that consisted of only 14 students the vast Daintree River with one of the many cruise operators in the
with split classes. Remote education was great and provided a area, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for crocodiles laying in
wonderful opportunity for one-on-one learning setting me up well the mangroves taking in the sun, or the native birds residing in the
for high school. rainforest trees.
Feel like leaving the main road? If so, head towards Upper Daintree
HISTORY along the dirt road for a different angle of the Daintree River and

The Daintree Village was fi rst established in 1883 as a base for the a view of the lush farmland running through the valley which is
red cedar timber industry. It had no road connection to Mossman home to hundreds of Brahman beef cattle for which the area is well
until the 1933 meaning each journey out of the village meant a six known.
to eight hour horse ride. The village also had no mains electricity If you’re staying in Port Douglas, the Daintree Village is the perfect
until 1966. Daintree State School opened in 1924 by which time the little day trip. Stop by for lunch or even spend the night. The town
town consisted of a sawmill, a butter factory, a general store and is a hidden gem within the Daintree Rainforest and in my opinion
many other small businesses. Today the Daintree Village thrives off visiting should 100% be a part of your holiday plan.
tourism and beef cattle farming and still has many friendly long-
term locals who would be happy to chat about the town’s history.
PERFECT FOR A DAY TRIP!
THINGS TO DO The Daintree Village is a 40-minute drive from Port Douglas.
The village welcomes you in as you emerge from the trees onto
the quiet streets lined with homes both old and new. As you travel
through the town make sure to visit the Daintree Village Hotel for Byron Filmer is a year 10 student from the local Mossman High
some lunch, and while you’re there ask about the rich history that School. Byron joined the team for his work experience week and one
lies within. of his projects was to share with us, and you, an experience he felt
Alternatively, stop by The Croc Xpresso Café to enjoy a coffee and a should be added to your holiday bucket list.

snack while you soak up the atmosphere around you.

96 Port Douglas Travel Planner