Cane Cutter Way: A Magical Road

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.

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

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 Johnstoneis home to the Sugar Mill and the importance of this way of being is eminent in the very atmosphere of the town.
Explore the gourmet gallery and browse or purchase some of the local art, jewellery and books on display at the "Off the Rails Cafe".

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

Explore the castles that make this park famous and discover the Indigenous Aboriginal culture that is evident along the walking tracks. Paronella Park is part of the Cairns Rainforest and offers guided tours of the walks along with bush tucker tours.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.

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.

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.

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.