lake barrine rainforest cruise and teahouse

JYML18

Our family of 4 (2 adults, an 11 yo and a 1 yo) visited here on a Monday in January. I read somewhere that the 9.30am cruise was highly recommended so we took that advice and had a lovely time. It was quite humid when we visited but the windows on the boat were opened so we could enjoy the breeze and fresh air. Our driver was fantastic and made sure we saw ducks galore, eels, an amethystine python and lots of birds. The lake itself is huge and very beautiful - I took lots of lovely photos. The cruise cost $40 for our family. Afterwards, we had devonshire tea on the verandah of the teahouse. It was very relaxing just looking out at the beautiful, serene lake. The tea was around $8 which included 1.5 scones, jam & cream and a pot of tea which could be topped up. The scones were lovely and light. We had a lovely time and I would highly recommend this experience!

volitans54

We did the cruise many years ago so missed it this time but just the same we bought a (bottomless) cup of NQ filtered coffee with scones and jam & cream. Very nice and not expensive at all. Sitting on the verandah overlooking the volcanic crater lake we just didn't want to go home. Please don't miss this 'must-do'.

c3017599

Lovely spot to visit, relax and take a little cruise around the lake. The cruise was nice as a change of pace and not to expensive, the guide needs to brush up a bit on the knowledge and presentation skill but not too bad. We ordered lunch prior to going on the boat and were assured it would b ready on our return, it was not which in itself wasnt to bad, but then only half our meals arrived after a longish wait, and we had to ask for the others and the wait by the time the rest arrived the others were finished, the meals were ok quality. A lot of potential in this place but the service needs to improve to really take advantages of the location. Still a good relaxing stop if travelling on the road, or if you need a down day breaking for more active pursuits.

CorkeSydney

We visited Lake Barrine and went on the 11.30am river cruise, it you appreciate nature and enjoy the simple things in life you must try it. Joy was our boat "driver" and made the hour cruise very enjoyable, we got to see Amethystine Pythons, Eels, turtles and various birds. The Lake is so peaceful,you can sit back, relax, and really unwind. After the cruise we went into the Tea House and had Devonshire Tea, the Scones with Jam and Cream were delicious. Well worth a visit.

AndrewN424

On our way up to Paronella park we stopped off here for morning tea and a cruise around the lake. The former were tasty enough, with the coffee being easily the best I tasted in Aus (not noted for its coffee its true!). However, the real star was the short tour around the lake. We were lucky enough to have the top deck to ourselves and could enjoy the antics of Percy the pelican while at the same time having a good look out for the carpet python and other wildlife. The commentary was entertaining and friendly and we had a really good hour or so here!

822philipj

Wonderful place to visit! Great food in the tea house for all tastes, don't miss the cream tea! Beautiful small gardens and the lake is lovely. Swimming is allowed too. Great staff and lovely gift shop.

rouen1921

We travelled a fairly long way to visit the lake and we were not disappointed by it as it is a very beautiful and peaceful place. Also looked forward to the famous 'tea house' which we expected to have lots of choice of home made cakes for afternoon tea, however we would rate this as pretty ordinary. Service was miserable and there was little on offer but the scones which were quite frankly, not up to much at all. Perhaps it was an 'off day'!

ScoobyMutley

It was a pretty dull and miserable day but we decided to take the boat cruise on the lake anyway. It was lovely. Our guide was very informative and went out of her way to make sure we saw as much of the local wildlife as possible. We went on the 11.00 am cruise so finished up in time to have lunch at the teahouse which was very good.

karensG2877TM

This tea house is former guest house from the 1920's that was a major stop on the route between Cairns and the interior. They make their own scones which were delightful with jam and cream, which a $7.60 with a cup of tea was excellent value. The cruise looked good but I wasn't there on time to take that. The lake is an old volcanic crater where a rainforest has grown around it. Really beautiful and serene!

BMR18

If you are up here it is a must do stop even just for a cup of tea and scones the day we visited it was overcast so did not see the lake at its best and we were here too late for the cruiseThe tea and scones were really nice and the staff welcoming even though they had had a very busy day when we got there late afternoon It could do with a bit of an overhaul as it is looking a little tried but love the feel here very relaxing just to sit and enjoy the lake and then a short or long walkWorth stopping here

juann22

We had been advised by many to come here for lunch and after reading the reviews it sounded great. I am very aware that it was Mother's Day and extremely busy. So I have no complaints about the wait time to order and then receive our food - expected this. However, I was disappointed in the very small serve of both the salads we ordered for the price charged. It was over $20 for each and a small bowl was what we received. The food was nice but not at the level I would expect at those prices. However, I could not fault the service! Despite how busy they were, they were always smiling, checked to see if our meals were ok and generally polite, helpful and friendly. The scenery was lovely despite the rain - no ones fault - and we were disappointed we didn't get the opportunity to take the cruise. So overall I would go back again but just fully expecting to pay high prices for average, small salads

Gemima33

The lake is clear-watered and beautiful and we took the cruise around with three kids under 6 (kids under 5 are free). We saw eels, turtles (terrafins we were informed), fish, ducks, waterhens and a python sunning itself i the reeds that our informative guide searched out and nestled the boat alongside. Afterwards we ate at the tea house which was prompt and delicious, we didn't get to do the longer walk around the lake due to the small children but would have enjoyed that. Only an hour out of Cairns via the very windy but very scenic Gillies Hwy.

carjilari

A very welcome cup of tea - local Ulysses tea - and local coffee- Maloberti's Gold - was had here. Lovely location overlooking the lake and ramp access for the frail - we were travelling with my 90 year old mum! Friendly and helpful staff were happy to chat away as our drinks were prepared. In peak tourist season, it would still be as lovely but perhaps not with the tranquility that we had. We really enjoyed this break.

769jasminen

If you are even in the area it is worthwhile stopping at Lake Barrine! The birdlife and the lake itself is beautiful :) They also on the lake have a tea house - which we did not stop at but is worth sitting and enjoying a drink whilst admiring the beautiful views!!!! There is also a little ferry that can take you for a ride down the lake which was so tempting but we did not have time unfortunantely. Lake Barrine is a must for stopping in and enjoying some relaxation over a nice cup of tea, brunch or a coffee and then taking a lovely boat ride. Nice way to spend the day I would say :)

SusieLil

I have been several times and enjoyed each visit. The food is good and reasonably priced. Staff are friendly and for those who like walking, it is ideal walking around the lake. The boat trip with information given about the area and points of interest is worth doing as well.