Every now and then you come across a place that is very special. A place all in a league of its own that you put on your bucket list while you figure out how to make it happen. I first discovered Silky Oaks Lodge in Tropical North Queensland many years ago. At the time my travel was infrequent as my meagre pay packet went towards such fanciful pursuits as paying the mortgage, ensuring my children were well fed and making sure the car had fuel. It didn’t stop me dreaming. Although I was in the thick of domestic life, I longed to escape to the ultimate in Daintree luxury accommodation where I could spend a night in a tree house amid the world heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. As many parents of young children do, I put my own wants and needs firmly on the back burner and set about raising the next generation to the best of my ability. We travelled with the kids as much as funds would allow but our destinations were always geared towards pleasing our rugrats on the premises that if they were happy we were happy. The lure of Silky Oaks Lodge never diminished. In a very selfish move, I decided that this was an experience that I didn’t want to share with my two boisterous boys. I wanted to totally relax with The Hubs without fear that every minute would be peppered with cries of ‘What are we going to do now?’, ‘I’m bored’, ‘He touched me’, and ‘Mum you’re not watching me!!!!’ They say patience is a virtue and mine has certainly been rewarded as I was recently able to tick this off my bucket list. It was all I had hoped it would be and more. Read on for all the details …
Arrival At Silky Oaks Lodge
We picked up our budget hire car from Cairns airport and headed due north before stopping for a quick lunch at Mojo Bar and Grill in Mossman. When we arrived at Silky Oaks Lodge at 1pm our room was not quite ready but this was no hardship as we waited in the jungle perch where we enjoyed excellent views across the river and complimentary welcome drinks. I’m not taking about luke-warm diluted punch either, at Silky Oaks Lodge you choose your welcome drink from the standard bar menu and of course I chose a chilled Sauvignon Blanc (Cloudy Bay no less!!) while The Hubs opted for a beer. The hour wait passed quickly as I explored the main building and the tensions of our city life ebbed away in the tranquil surrounds of the Daintree Rainforest.
Daintree Luxury Accommodation
Silky Oaks Lodge offers 6 types of luxury Daintree accommodation. When it was time to head to our room, we were personally escorted to the door. It was a bit of a hike and we were quite possibly the furthest cabin (#46) from the main reception area. Each step provided a new delight to discover including bush turkeys, Ulysses Butterflies, ancient flora and trickling streams. The beauty of our location was that we were almost completed secluded from all the other guests. When swinging in the balcony hammock looking at the pristine Daintree Rainforest and Mossman River, it was easy to believe we were the only people on the planet.
Our treehouse was amazing. The tealight candles scattered throughout the room were the perfect romantic touch to our spectacular digs. In a bold move, Silky Oaks Lodge have not provided TV’s in the rooms. This would normally freak me but it took us four hours to even notice and we didn’t miss it at all. Instead we let the incredibly tranquil sound of the bespoke CD that was playing in our room on arrival become the backdrop of our entire stay. The Hubs did try to turn it off once, but he couldn’t be bothered to deal with my protests and quickly hit the play button again. You have to pick your battles right?
The bathroom was modern and traditional all at the same time. The was shower equipped with a waterfall spout befitting the surroundings. I rarely use hotel toiletries as they are usually not rich enough for my super dry skin but the toiletries supplied by Silky Oaks Lodge were lavish and smelt divine so I lathered on the body lotion post shower.
The Peppermint Grove Diffuser in our room was divine. Every single time I stepped back inside the heady smell of gardenia greeted me. It was originally in the bathroom but I was so enamored with this little bottle of deliciousness that I moved it to the living room and placed one of the sticks under my pillow so the sweet scent enveloped me as I drifted off to sleep. The next day I tracked down the closest stockist and bought one to take home. Every time I step into my lounge room and the scent hits me, I remember our magical time at Silky Oaks Lodge.
Dinner At Silky Oaks Lodge
We chose to eat dinner in house at The Treehouse Restaurant and we were blown away by the quality. The menu selection was tight and I have to admit initially I was a little daunted as every dish had an element that was not to my liking. After a quick chat with our server all was well in the world. The Hubs removed the lemon grass from his fish of the day and I chose my beef sans lentils. Sweet! I wish I could show you how tender this beef was. I’m talking seriously melt in the mouth. I really didn’t need a steak knife as I swear the butter knife that came with the incredibly malty bread would have sliced thorough it just fine. The Hubs chose a 5oog serve of the fish of the day (snapper) and he was in seventh heaven with the accompanying citrus soy dressing. He raved about the crispy skin and the rice was the perfect foil to mop up the delicious sauce. We had grand intentions of ordering dessert, but the generous portions meant we were well and truly out of the game. The turn down service came while we were out to dinner and we found some delightful chocolates on our pillow. We managed to squeeze them in!
Silky Oaks Lodge Facilities
Silky Oaks Lodge has many complimentary activities including a stunning resort pool, mountain bikes and water craft. We were told the pool was a balmy 27°c. I ventured in waist deep before my sense of self-preservation kicked in and I decide not to dice with hypothermia. It was certainly not 27°c! I can imagine that this would be the perfect spot to languish away a summer day but in the midst of an Aussie winter it was just a smidge too cold for me. Silky Oaks Lodge is home to the famed Healing Waters Spa. I didn’t have time to indulge during our short visit but the facials sounded amazing.
Daintree Rainforest
Shortly after check in we shed our winter gear (it was 2°c when we left Sydney at 4am!) and changed into our swim suits to head down to Billabong Beach. We had this little slice of paradise all to ourselves and while the water was a bit too fresh for me, The Hubs is made of sterner stuff and he enjoyed a brisk swim amongst the waterfalls. At dusk we decide to join the guided walking tour. Erin was our very knowledgeable guide and she brought the Daintree Rainforest to life for us in a way that we would not have been able to achieve on our own.
Breakfast
The most important meal of the day is an event at Silky Oaks Lodge. Grab a table at the edge of the balcony and enjoy panoramic views as you graze on the hot and cold buffets or order à la carte. Or do both. I did! Did I mention coconut yoghurt is on the menu? This is one of my all time favourite things and I have only ever found coyo (as I call it!) at Thrive. Winning!
Nearby
There are so many things to do in Cairns and the surrounding area. Make sure you check out the Kuranda Scenic Railway, one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys and take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a completely different view of the rainforest. Straight after check out we headed to Bruce Belchers Daintree River Cruises which is only 30 minutes away from Silky Oaks Lodge. Spoiler alert: we saw crocs! Of course a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef is a must!
The Final Word
Our one night at Silky Oaks Lodge was over all too quickly. We loved every single second of our stay and the wait was definitely worth it. The tranquility and solitude was a welcome relief from frantic city life and we found our pace slowing as we adjusted to our surroundings. The beauty of the Daintree Rainforest is a sight to behold and Silky Oaks Lodge has been carefully designed to be sympathetic to the natural surroundings which shows in every little detail. Can you see yourself at Silky Oaks Lodge when you next visit Tropical North Queensland? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Until Next Time …
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Disclaimer: I enjoyed a discounted rate for my stay at Silky Oaks Lodge. As always, all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links which will earn me a few cents to contribute to the running of this site if you make a qualifying purchase at no extra cost to you.
Agness of Fit Travelling says
This place seems truly magnificent and spending at least a night there seems like a great idea. When’s the best time of the year to go there, Allison?
you.theworld.wandering says
I love that this gorgeous property offers tree house style accommodation and best of all – no tv! It’s the perfect retreat to kick back and indulge in the natural surrounding. It also looks like there are plenty of activities to do! Would love to stay here!
Allison Smith says
I don’t think I have ever stayed anywhere with no TV before. It as very refreshing!
Vicky and Buddy says
The views you had looked amazing! It must have been so hard to only spend one night, but at least you were finally able to cross it off your list. I imagine it must have been difficult to climb out of that hammock too! Next time, you’ll definitely have to check out the spa!
Allison Smith says
It sure was! If I had known how fabulous it would be I would have definitely booked longer!
sara | belly rumbles says
Silky Oaks Lodge is an institute in the Daintree. Such a relaxing and gorgeous place to stay. The food looks incredible and it was great to know you were treated like silk worms. I would have been so relaxed and refreshed after spending a few days there.
Allison Smith says
It sure is Sara and it’s easy to see why. Just stunning! And the food!!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Christopher says
This place is friggin awesome. It’s absolutely on my to go to list. A tree house? For real??? Haha. The place looks like a spa resort with the food and additional amenities. Wow. I glad you got to for full your dream…now it’s my turn!!!
Allison Smith says
It really is very special Christopher. Only wish we could have stayed longer ?
Gina says
I can see why you fell in love with the property. I thought the pool was natural because of all the flora around it. I also like how there are beautiful things to do outdoors like go into a cable car. I’m definitely staying here if I go out to this neck of the woods.
Allison Smith says
I hope you make it there soon Gina ?
Paige W says
What a beautiful lodge! It seems like it has so many wonderful amenities! Canoes, rainforest access, pool… So wonderful! That breakfast looks absolutely incredible. It looks like you were getting the perfect start on the day!
Allison Smith says
It was stunning Paige. Loved every second we were there ?
Jennifer says
This looks like a really unique resort to stay at! We’ve stayed at a couple of tree house hotels before and loved the experiences. It sounds like there really is a lot to do if you like to be active on holiday, which is my travel style. I’m with you and I’d be at the spa though in winter time. That pool better be nearly hot tub temps for me to take a dip in winter!
Allison Smith says
Winter in TNQ is still pretty mild Jennifer but I still would have like the pool a little warmer ? Luckily there was still lots to do and we had a fantastic stay.
Kim says
This lodge is amazing! I can’t get over the pool, it almost looks like a natural oasis. What an incredible place to stay in Daintree Rainforest. It must have been so hard to leave your room with that view! Love the hammock and interior design.
Allison Smith says
It really was special Kim. So glad we were able to experience Silky Oaks.
talin says
What a gorgeous place! I feel relaxed just reading about it and looking at the beautiful photos. I wish we had something similar to that on this side of the world.
Allison Smith says
It was all sorts of fabulous Talin. I wish we had have been able to stay a little longer ?
Archana Singh says
Reading your experience of staying at Silky Oaks lodge in a rainforest, I am too craving for a tranquil getaway from the frantic city life. Love all your pictures. The toiletries look fab.
Allison Smith says
Everyone needs a real break every now and then. Silky Oaks is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Karla says
I would definitely opt for the spa. I like how this place looks cozy and homey and one with nature. My type of place.
Allison Smith says
The spa looked amazing Karla. If I had more time I would definitely have visited. Just another reason to stay a little longer at Silky Oaks!
yukti says
I loved the solitude and tranquility of daintree rainforest area. Having breakfast at the edge of balcony with superb view of greenery must be so relaxing in Silky Oaks Lodge. Coconut Yogurt sounds interesting and I would also like to try it as coconut is my favorite in all forms.
Allison Smith says
It was just a retreat from daily life Yukti. And coyo is the bomb!
WanderingCarol says
I definitely think I’d head to the spa rather than the pool, haha. At least in winter. I was in the Daintree Rainforest once and it was absolutely stunning. This would be a great place to stay especially with the mountain bikes and water craft. – and in, summer, of course the pool.
Allison Smith says
I wish I had too Carol! The Spa was very popular!
Danijela WorldGlimpses says
Oh, it looks lovely! I can only imagine the atmosphere – a tree house, but a luxurious one! 🙂 Love your photos of the terrace, such romantic surroundings to have a meal in. And I have to say, that swimming among waterfalls sounds really alluring!
Allison Smith says
Thanks Danijela. It was easy to take lovely photos in such a stunning setting!
Aleah | SolitaryWanderer says
It looks so homey, and that hammock is to die for! How about mosquitoes though? Were there any? I’d love to be in a treehouse and all but don’t want to get feasted on by mozzies haha
Allison Smith says
We didn’t have any issues with mozzies Aleah but it was winter so that probably helped. The hammock was such a nice touch!
Sarah says
This place looks just idyllic and good for you that you took a well-earned opportunity to enjoy it sans kids! The Rainforest Cableway looks awesome, I would really enjoy that. Thanks for sharing, great post!
Allison Smith says
I love my boys to bits but I’m not sure they would have fully appreciated Silky Oaks. Glad I waited ?
Luke says
Wow! This place seems very relaxing, and it is very wrap in the natural environment, or viceversa. Your pictures are great.
Allison Smith says
Thanks Luke. Silky Oaks blends seemlessly into the stunning rainforest. Such an amazing place.
Christie Sultemeier says
OMG what?! How is this place even real? It is amazing. I would choose the chilled sauv blanc too soo feel free to invite me next time… 😉 I love that you say the water was too fresh for you! Haha. Does that mean too cold?! Really cool post – thanks for sharing! Gonna pin it for later, too.
Allison Smith says
Lol yes Christine fresh is cold. I’m really shocking with swimming though. Anything less that 28c and I have to think about it lol
Bee says
this places looks amazing from every angle and the experience was a real taste of luxury from start to finish. I love the stunning decor and the location. really nice to see a more tropical side of Oz! Great post.
Allison Smith says
It really was spectacular Bee. So much beauty only so many photos I could add lol
Marcie says
Gosh, now I’M dreaming about Silky Oaks Lodge! What a wonderful spot to get away from the stresses of the world. I mean, you got to stay in a TREE HOUSE! That’s crazy awesome! It sounds so peaceful! And good to know that the bath products are great quality. I’m a sucker for that!
Allison Smith says
It was perfect Marcie! I only wish we could have stayed longer ?
Jamie says
Now this is a place I could stay for a week! The hotel and grounds are simply gorgeous. The pool, river, biking and spa provide a good variation of amenities to enjoy. My favorite thing would be relaxing in the hammock!
Allison Smith says
That would have been awesome Jamie but we had such a short time in TNQ we had to reluctantly move on.
Lisa says
Silky Oaks Lodge looks like a small piece of paradise! I would love to stay in one of these cabins, and just relax in that hammock. The natural pool looks a dream, and I’d love to try the mountain bikes too. Yum, coconut yoghurt sounds delicious, one place I’ll definitely remember!
Allison Smith says
It sure was Lisa. The hammock was a winner for sure ?