Townsville is a tropical destination in Queensland often passed by in favour of its more northerly neighbour, Cairns. It is a quieter alternative, without the hordes of backpackers and yet with just as many nearby attractions, and for these reasons Townsville is starting to stand out as the better option for a holiday in the tropics. There is a huge amount of diversity in the countryside around the city that adds to the appeal of a driving holiday in these parts. To the north thick rainforests grow, and the south is home to large sugar cane and mango farming communities. Driving westwards brings you to the wide open spaces of the outback, and just a short boat trip east and you have the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to explore.

Townsville is a peaceful and friendly town in which to base yourself and explore the surrounding attractions. The beach that runs down the length of the city is the chief attraction here. Lined with palm trees, its pure white sands contrast perfectly with the bright blue waters to create a postcard setting ideal to laze away the hot days in. The newly refurbished beachside promenade, the ‘Strand’, is a short walk away, and here you can be refreshed in the restaurants and bars or indulge in some retail therapy in the many shops. If you fancy a bit of exercise then climb Castle Hill, the imposing granite mound that towers above the city. The views of the surrounding coast and of Magnetic Island are amazing here, and there are BBQ facilities and marked walking trails up here.

Magnetic Island is nearly always mentioned in the same breath as Townsville, and it would be sacrilege not to pay a visit to this special place whilst you are in the area. Mt. Cook is the central and highest point of this island. Rainforest covered, it is home to an impressive array of Australian wild and birdlife, and there are plenty of bushwalks you can go on to appreciate these and the stunning views that characterise this mountain. The numerous rocky headlands that protrude into the ocean also provide some stunning views, especially of the 23 bays and beaches that border Magnetic Island. The still blue waters are safe for swimming, and the vibrant marine life makes the snorkelling here very exciting! There are lots of accommodation options on the island, from cheap to luxury, so why not book your spot in advance and spend a couple of days?

For a break from the coastline and to experience some true Australian hospitality jump into your hirecar and strike out west towards the outback town of Charters Towers. An old and established town, this was initially a centre for the gold rush that happened so many years ago and this heritage is still evident around the town. To learn more about its history take a tour of the Ghosts of Gold Heritage Trail, which goes around the buildings and institutions important to this bygone era, and also incorporates an evening movie in the town hall. There are over 60 heritage listed buildings in this town, so if old world architecture is your thing then you are in for a treat! For something different head out to the Burdekin dam, which is well stocked with the game fish barramundi that is known as putting up a good fight, but making an even better dinner!

A two and a half hour road trip north of Townsville brings you to the laid back and lush little tourist hideaway known as Mission Beach. Tucked away in thick rainforest, this quaint little spot is a great retreat for a relaxing weekend. The forest vegetation stretches all the way down to the pristine beaches, meaning you have the novelty of stepping from thick green vegetation onto the pure white sands and then into the deep blue waters! Mission Beach has taken on an eco friendly ethos, proving that tourism and the preservation of nature can go hand in hand, and remember to respect this when you are visiting here. Be sure to take a trip out to Dunk Island, just a short boat ride away, and enjoy the spectacular snorkelling around its reefs.

With all the attractions in and around Townsville, you will need plenty of time to plan your holiday so that all the best spots can be visited. Picking up a hirecar and basing yourself in Townsville is a great way to explore its surrounds, and to fully appreciate the beauty and hospitality of the Queensland tropics!