Atherton

  • Population 7331 (2016 census)
  • Area 94.1 kilometre²
  • Postcode 4883
  • Distance from Cairns
      • via Gillies Highway 80 kilometres
      • via Kuranda Range 100 kilometres
  • Elevation 752 metres (2467 feet)
  • 752 metres (2467 feet)
  • Weather 10° to 29°
  • Drive time from Cairns 1 hour 30 minutes

Atherton is the second largest town on the Atherton Tablelands (over 7,000).  Pastures contrast with green hills, rich blue skies, and radiant sunshine.

This region is in the heart of some of the area’s most picturesque scenery.

It services many outlying farming communities, and its residential areas are expanding.  Here you will find a robust commercial sector offering a full range of civil services, banking, and commerce.  Atherton also has a thriving retail hub with quaint cafes and gift shops.

Beyond its busy CBD and within easy reach is the 56-hectare Hastie’s Swamp National Park hosts the Nyleta Wetland Bird Hide.  Here you will find  230 species of birds.  There is also a two-storey hide overlooking the wetlands.

Places of Interest

Halloran’s Hill Lookout

This popular attraction includes picnic and barbecue facilities, a children’s playground and a walking track.

Hou Wang Temple and Museum

Hou Wang Temple, the last remaining timber and iron Chinese temple in Australia, is on the outskirts of Atherton’s CBD.

Acquired by the National Trust in 1979, the temple is a tribute to the significance of the town’s Chinese cultural heritage.  This temple features cultural artefacts, a souvenir shop, and guided tours.

Tablelands Regional Gallery

Tableland Regional Gallery in Robert Street showcases the diversity of artistic talent in the Atherton Tablelands.  This gallery displays the works of local artists and travelling exhibitions.

Crystal Caves

Along Main Street in Atherton, discover the unique Crystal Caves Museum highlight.  Crystal Caves feature tunnels and caverns with rare crystals and fossils.  Here you can explore at leisure, see, touch and feel the ancient treasures of the earth.  During your visit, view a 44-million-year-old prehistoric bubble.

Atherton Markets

  • When: From 7 am.  First Saturday of the month.
  • Where: Platypus Park, Herberton Road, Atherton.
  • What: Plants, arts, crafts and local produce.

Nearby towns to visit.