The Cane Cutter Way stretches along 42 kilometres of the Bruce Highway in Tropical North Queensland. It is an essential driving holiday to endeavour on for those wishing to explore the hidden treasures of some of Australia's most quaint and picturesque towns. Beginning in Innisfail and drawing to an end in Silkwood, you should spare several days to explore the region and enjoy the scenic backdrop.

Throughout the entire drive you will experience the sights of endless fields of sugarcane and tropical fruits, the scattered pockets of rainforest abounding in the lush red soil and the charm of old world sugar towns. Steeped in history and local charisma the immense beauty of this virtually untouched area shines through even further in the backdrop of mountain ranges and myriad of treasures in the unscathed rainforests.

Innisfail

Begin your driving journey in Innisfail, a prosperous, colourful town, situated on the North and South Johnstone Rivers. Innisfail is surrounded by rich green landscape and sets the scene for the remainder of the drive. When venturing out of Innisfail, follow the signs along the Bruce Highway which lead you towards South Johnstone and Mena Creek.

Before you leave, be sure to drop in to the Visitor Information Centre and pick up some of the brochures and maps available for your trip. The friendly locals here are happy to help you plan your journey and ensure that you soak up all that the Cane Cutter Way has to offer.

Stop for a bite to eat in Wangan, at the Carrajah Hotel. This historical pub encompasses a country pub atmosphere, serving home-cooked meals using the quality local produce. Lunch at Carrajah Hotel offers a traditional Aussie experience; one of many that you can enjoy on this driving journey.

South Johnstone

The next key town on the drive is South Johnstone. This delightful little town is rich in old world charm and is just the place to take your foot off the throttle and prepare for the next length of your sightseeing trail.

South Johnstone is home to the Sugar Mill and the importance of this way of being is eminent in the very atmosphere of the town. Take care of the bustling cane trams and if you're lucky you may even witness the spectacular sight of a cane fire!

Stop at the "Off the Rails Cafe" for a pleasant afternoon tea with find food and coffee. Explore the gourmet gallery and browse or purchase some of the local art, jewellery and books on display.

Mena Creek

Continuing further along the scenic drive, you will come to Paronella Park. I suggest setting up camp around here. The caravan park is the perfect place to pitch your tent or park your campervan. The park has great facilities and its close proximity to the gardens make the atmosphere a pleasant one.

Wake up bright and early and prepare for a day of bush trekking adventure. Paronella Park is part of the Cairns Rainforest and offers guided tours of the walks along with bush tucker tours. Explore the castles that make this park famous and discover the Indigenous Aboriginal culture that is evident along the walking tracks.

Endeavouring on a short drive up the road will bring you to Mena Creek. Here, you can take your bush walking even further and attempt the Misty Mountain Trail. There are several popular walking tracks, which all allow you to enjoy this tropical rainforest setting. Finish the day by taking a dip at the Mena Creek Falls and Swimming Pool. This is an ideal oasis to soak up the relaxing and peaceful nature of the region.

A full day of walking and swimming is sure to make you tired so let the friendly people at the Mena Creek Hotel look after you for the night. Enjoy a home cooked meal and comfortable bed and prepare for the final stretch of your journey in the morning.

Silkwood

Cruise the remainder of the journey at an unhurried pace, as this will let you soak up the beautiful surroundings of the southern end of the Cane Cutter Way. Pass through the small country town of Japoonvale, stopping for a picnic and a refreshing dip in Liverpool Creek.

Drive for a few more kilometres down the road and you will reach the end point of this scenic route, Silkwood. Home to Australia's smallest bank and the Murdering Point Winery, this undisturbed village is the perfect place to wind down after your drive. Sample some of Australia's premium tropical wines and ports and reminisce on the pleasurable memories of the Cane Cutter Way.

Christine Barton