River views and gorgeous sunsets are just some of the highlights of staying at the Grand Barron Lodge in Kuranda. And the tropical surroundings and uninterrupted peace and quiet make it one of the best kept secrets on the Kuranda Range.
From the moment you arrive you are drawn in by the breathtaking views over the Barron River, which can be enjoyed from the spacious balcony stretching the length of the lodge.
It feels as though you could be looking over a river in Sri Lanka or even Africa, but instead of seeing hippos, elephants and crocodiles you can watch turtles and ducks peacefully enjoying the river.
Sounds of bird calls and trickling water from small rapids further down the river are the only sounds you hear, which is one of the reasons people come here…for the peace and quiet and the opportunity to get closer to nature.
After all, Grand Barron Lodge is nestled between both river and rainforest and is a secluded hideaway and true tropical sanctuary.
But it’s not just the amazing views and serene atmosphere that make Grand Barron Lodge so appealing, the lodge itself is just as beautiful.
First Impressions
First impressions count and as you drive through the front gates down the winding driveway, it is a pleasure to see the lodge for the first time.
Landscaped lawns and paved paths lead to the front entrance.
Inside there is a communal lounge area featuring an open fireplace.
There’s also a formal dining room and a spacious, well-equipped kitchen, opening on to the outside balcony via bi-fold doors and French doors.
This is a great place to cook your own meals while enjoying the river views.
The wide balcony was by far my favourite place to sit.
I could quite easily while away a few hours here overlooking the river while sipping my morning coffee or afternoon wine.
And make sure you have your camera ready for photographing the sun setting over the river in the late afternoon.
Suites at the Lodge
There are four different suites to choose from, all are quite different but equally lovely and all with four-poster beds
The Grace Room and the Jane Room both feature a Queen-size bed and shared bathroom facilities, which are located off the balcony.
The other two suites are a little more luxurious with private ensuites.
We stayed in the Victoria Suite, which was enormous with six metre high ceilings with exposed hickory rafters.
We slept in a romantic Queen-size four-poster bed with incredibly soft pillows (which I need to mention because they were divine and like sleeping on a cloud).
Our ensuite bathroom featured a claw foot bath, separate toilet and French doors opening to the back deck facing the river.
For honeymooners or those looking for a special romantic weekend away, I would recommend the Grand Suite.
It has a similar layout to the Victoria Suite but with more privacy and it’s own balcony, outdoor kitchen facilities and a large glass atrium ensuite with a slate tiled spa bath.
River Activities
The property has steps leading down to the river where you can swim, paddle in the lodge’s canoe or just sit on deck chairs and watch the sun go down.
Or if you would prefer to just relax on the balcony, you can admire the view of the river from there.
The river really is the perfect backdrop for this jewel of a property and creates a magical and idyllic retreat.
travel nq fast facts:
- The Lodge is about 10-15 minutes drive from Kuranda township
- You will need to organise with the Grand Barron Lodge prior if you need transport to and from the lodge
- Breakfast is provided on the balcony each morning
- There are apparently no crocodiles in this section of the river and we were told it was safe to swim
- Children are welcome
- It is a great place to base yourself if exploring Kuranda, the Tablelands and Cairns
