Silky Oaks Lodge

Silky Oaks Lodge Review

Surrounded by national parkland, this Advanced Ecotourism-certified hotel is reminiscent of high-end African safari lodges. Tropically inspired cabins overlook the rain forest, the river, or the property's swimming pool lined with natural rocks, and have verandas slung with hammocks. Inside are warm timber floors and furnishings, well stocked mini-bars, CD players, dimmable lighting, aromatherapy oil burners, hot tubs, and day beds. The lodge is the starting point for 4WD safaris, cycling, and canoeing trips into national park rain forest as well as heli-tours, balloon flights, reef and croc cruises, golf, fishing, and Aboriginal-guided tours. Or stay put and recharge at the Healing Waters Spa, where holistic treatments incorporate all-natural Australian-made products. Delightful public areas, including the open-sided Tree House restaurant and bar, overlook the Daintree River, where you might spot river turtles basking on stones. Gourmet breakfasts and various activities (river snorkeling, guided walks, bicycles, tennis, yoga, board games) are included in the price—which is reduced for stays longer than two nights.