Lake Barrine is a freshwater Lake situated on the eastern parts of Atherton Tableland in Far North Queensland, Australia, close to Lake Eacham. The Lake and surrounds are protected within the Crater Lakes National Park and are accessible via the Gillies Highway.
Lake Barrine was formed over 17,000 years ago when a large volcano erupted, leaving a crater that over time filled up with water to create a lake. The crater or maar was formed as a result of a series of volcanic explosions. These explosions were caused by the hot molten rock coming into contact with groundwater. This caused a build-up of steam, gases and pressure which blasted the central core from the volcano. This massive explosion left a huge crater, which filled with rainwater to create Lake Barrine. Local Aboriginals called the Lake Barany.
The largest of the natural volcanic lakes in the area, Lake Barrine is 730 m above sea level. It is about 1 km in diameter, with a shoreline of almost 4.5 km and an average depth of 65 m. No streams or springs feed the crystal clear lake; it is filled only by rainwater. During the wet season a small creek flows out of the lake. It joins Toohey Creek which is a tributary of the Mulgrave River.
There are walking tracks around the Lake and tour operators offer cruises on the lake.Facilities at the Lake include picnic grounds, a kiosk and a pre-war tea house which was built in 1926. Visitors may also swim in the Lake and partake in birdwatching. Camping and domestic animals are prohibited near the lake.
The surrounding rainforest contains giant kauri (Agathis microstachya), Red cedar trees and flowering umbrella trees (Schefflera actinophylla). Wildlife common in the area include eastern water dragons, giant eels, sawshell turtles, scrub pythons (Morelia kinghorni), Pied Cormorants, black ducks, plumed whistling ducks, black coot, whistling kites, brahminy kites, black kites, white breasted Sea eagles and dusky moorhens.
The Rainforest and Wildlife Cruise
Lake Barrine is world famous for its informative relaxing rainforest & wildlife cruises around the volcanic crater brim. The 40-minute, 6km cruises provides a close-up view of one of the most complex and amazing rainforest eco-systems in the world.
The 45 minute Rainforest and Wildlife Cruise operates daily with the first cruise at 9.30am etc. Coach and large group bookings are easily catered for with discount rates available upon request.
Adult Pass: $16.00
Child Pass (5 to 15 years): $8.00
Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children): $40.00.
Cottage Bed & Breakfast For a peaceful getaway the fully self-contained Heritage Cottage Bed & Breakfast by the Lake is a great retreat at a reasonable price.
During winter months enjoy the warmth and cosiness of the wood heater. The songs of numerous bird species enhance an early morning rainforest walk.
Swimming
Fancy a swim?
Lake Barrine offers excellent swimming in the pristine fresh water all year round.
Both shallow & deep-water areas are accessible directly below the Lake Barrine Teahouse.
The Teahouse/Restaurant
The multi-award winning Devonshire Teas and tasty light lunches can be enjoyed on the balcony of the charming 80 year old teahouse while taking in the serene Lake views.
The Teahouse/Restaurant is open from 9am every day except Christmas Day and continues to support local producers.
How To Find Us
Coming from either Cairns or Atherton, Lake Barrine is very easy to find. From the Gillies Highway, the Lake is less than a minute from the highway, marked clearly in both directions.
Getting There From Cairns
Approximately 5 minutes after reaching the top of the Gillies Highway, turn left at the "Lake Barrine National Park" sign
Getting There From Atherton
Follow the Gordonvale Atherton Road. Approximately 8km past Yungaburra, the turnoff to Lake Barrine National Park should be clearly signed on your left.
some photos for hotel
Lake Barrine was formed over 17,000 years ago when a large volcano erupted, leaving a crater that over time filled up with water to create a lake. The crater or maar was formed as a result of a series of volcanic explosions. These explosions were caused by the hot molten rock coming into contact with groundwater. This caused a build-up of steam, gases and pressure which blasted the central core from the volcano. This massive explosion left a huge crater, which filled with rainwater to create Lake Barrine. Local Aboriginals called the Lake Barany.
The largest of the natural volcanic lakes in the area, Lake Barrine is 730 m above sea level. It is about 1 km in diameter, with a shoreline of almost 4.5 km and an average depth of 65 m. No streams or springs feed the crystal clear lake; it is filled only by rainwater. During the wet season a small creek flows out of the lake. It joins Toohey Creek which is a tributary of the Mulgrave River.
There are walking tracks around the Lake and tour operators offer cruises on the lake.Facilities at the Lake include picnic grounds, a kiosk and a pre-war tea house which was built in 1926. Visitors may also swim in the Lake and partake in birdwatching. Camping and domestic animals are prohibited near the lake.
The surrounding rainforest contains giant kauri (Agathis microstachya), Red cedar trees and flowering umbrella trees (Schefflera actinophylla). Wildlife common in the area include eastern water dragons, giant eels, sawshell turtles, scrub pythons (Morelia kinghorni), Pied Cormorants, black ducks, plumed whistling ducks, black coot, whistling kites, brahminy kites, black kites, white breasted Sea eagles and dusky moorhens.
The Rainforest and Wildlife Cruise
Lake Barrine is world famous for its informative relaxing rainforest & wildlife cruises around the volcanic crater brim. The 40-minute, 6km cruises provides a close-up view of one of the most complex and amazing rainforest eco-systems in the world.
The 45 minute Rainforest and Wildlife Cruise operates daily with the first cruise at 9.30am etc. Coach and large group bookings are easily catered for with discount rates available upon request.
Adult Pass: $16.00
Child Pass (5 to 15 years): $8.00
Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children): $40.00.
Cottage Bed & Breakfast For a peaceful getaway the fully self-contained Heritage Cottage Bed & Breakfast by the Lake is a great retreat at a reasonable price.
During winter months enjoy the warmth and cosiness of the wood heater. The songs of numerous bird species enhance an early morning rainforest walk.
Swimming
Fancy a swim?
Lake Barrine offers excellent swimming in the pristine fresh water all year round.
Both shallow & deep-water areas are accessible directly below the Lake Barrine Teahouse.
The Teahouse/Restaurant
The multi-award winning Devonshire Teas and tasty light lunches can be enjoyed on the balcony of the charming 80 year old teahouse while taking in the serene Lake views.
The Teahouse/Restaurant is open from 9am every day except Christmas Day and continues to support local producers.
How To Find Us
Coming from either Cairns or Atherton, Lake Barrine is very easy to find. From the Gillies Highway, the Lake is less than a minute from the highway, marked clearly in both directions.
Getting There From Cairns
Approximately 5 minutes after reaching the top of the Gillies Highway, turn left at the "Lake Barrine National Park" sign
Getting There From Atherton
Follow the Gordonvale Atherton Road. Approximately 8km past Yungaburra, the turnoff to Lake Barrine National Park should be clearly signed on your left.
some photos for hotel
