Best Day Rides from Bungalow: the Gillies–Tablelands–Kuranda Loop
From ReviRide Cairns Ducati & Triumph
Roll out of Bungalow and within twenty minutes the sugarcane flats around Gordonvale give way to one of Far North Queensland's most loved riding roads. The Gillies Range Road claws its way up the escarpment in a relentless string of tight, shaded switchbacks, lifting you from the humid coast into the cooler, greener air of the Atherton Tablelands.
Up top the riding changes character entirely. Smooth, open sweepers link the historic village of Yungaburra, the still volcanic crater lakes, and the dairy country around Malanda and Millaa Millaa, where short detours lead to a trio of postcard waterfalls. It is unhurried, scenic touring country, perfect for a long lunch and a few photo stops.
The return is the grand finale: a run across the high tableland to Kuranda, then a winding descent of the Kuranda Range with the Coral Sea opening up ahead before you slip back into Cairns. It is a true day ride that packs technical corners, rainforest, and big views into a single loop.
Along the way
- 1
Gordonvale
A relaxed sugar-town on the Bruce Highway south of Cairns, at the foot of Walsh's Pyramid. A handy spot to fuel up and grab a coffee before starting the climb.
- 2
Gillies Range Road
The signature road of the loop: a steep, heavily cambered mountain pass famous for its huge tally of corners. Take it steady, watch for buses and oncoming traffic cutting the apex, and enjoy the rainforest canopy.
- 3
Yungaburra
A heritage-listed village with cafes, pubs and galleries. Nearby Peterson Creek has a platypus viewing platform, and the giant Curtain Fig Tree is a short ride away.
- 4
Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham (Crater Lakes National Park)
Two clear, deep volcanic crater lakes ringed by rainforest. Lake Barrine has a lakeside teahouse; both make for an easy, scenic leg-stretch.
- 5
Millaa Millaa Falls and the Waterfall Circuit
The iconic Millaa Millaa Falls, plus the nearby Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls, form a compact loop of waterfalls through dairy country. Narrow side roads, so ride to the conditions.
- 6
Atherton
The largest town on the Tablelands and a good place for lunch, fuel and a rest before the run toward Kuranda.
- 7
Kuranda and the Kuranda Range
A rainforest village above Cairns, followed by the twisting descent of the Kuranda Range back toward the coast and home to Bungalow.
Before you go
- Fuel up in Cairns or Gordonvale before the climb; top up again in Atherton, as servo options thin out on the smaller Tablelands and waterfall roads.
- The Gillies and Kuranda ranges are tight, steep and often shaded, so patches can stay damp and slippery even on dry days. Ride within your limits and leave room for tour buses and caravans.
- Expect a real temperature drop on the Tablelands compared with the coast; pack a layer, and be ready for sudden tropical showers and mist, especially in the wet season.
- Watch for wildlife (cassowaries, wallabies and cattle on rural verges), loose gravel on side roads to the waterfalls, and reduced traction from fallen leaves and damp shade.
- This is a suggested route only; check current road conditions, closures and weather before you set out, and adjust your pace and plan to suit the day.
Ride it on a ReviRide bike
Helmet and 800 km/day included.
Routes are suggestions only. Roads, conditions, and access can change — check current conditions, ride to your ability and the conditions, and obey all road rules.