Paperbark Retreat

08/06/2026

People often see the finished result... the beautiful gardens, the peaceful river views, the walking tracks and relaxing spaces.

What they don't always see is the work behind it.

The early mornings. The long days. The planning, building, painting, mowing, planting and creating.

Tony does allot of work with the tractor, clearing land, creating new tracks and constantly improving our little piece of paradise. Together, we work side by side, turning a dream into something special.

Paperbark Retreat isn't just a place to stay. It's our home, our passion, and a labour of love that continues to grow every day.

Every garden bed, every track, every improvement is created with our guests in mind, so they can relax, explore and experience the beauty of Cape York.

Come and see what we've created. We'd love to share it with you.

Paperbark Retreat – built with heart, shared with passion. ❤️🌿

06/06/2026

Discover Cape York with Tony – One Day, Countless memories.

Spend time fishing the Endeavour River right here on our property, where guests regularly catch barramundi and mangrove jack. Explore the historic Old Laura Homestead, visit the renowned Quinkan Gallery and marvel at the ancient Aboriginal rock art at Split Rock escarpment. Along the way, keep an eye out for wild horses roaming the countryside and enjoy a visit to the stunning Elim Beach.

A relaxing lunch at the Laura Hotel is included, giving you the chance to soak up some true outback hospitality before continuing your journey.

With his local knowledge, stories and passion for the region, Tony ensures every tour is enjoyable, informative and memorable. Best of all, tours can be tailored to suit your interests, whether you're keen on fishing, history, culture, photography or simply seeing the very best of Cape York.

For tour pricing and bookings, contact Paperbark Retreat on 07 4069 5604 or Sue on 0431 549 071.

Your adventure. Your pace. Your Cape York experience. 🌿🎣🐎🏖️✨

05/06/2026

04/06/2026

29/05/2026

Good morning from Paperbark Retreat.

This morning I wandered through the gardens, coffee in hand, and once again I was reminded just how incredibly lucky I am to call this place home.

Every day begins with birdsong, lush tropical greenery, and the soft morning light filtering through the trees. Today there was even a sleepy python curled up amongst the garden beds, completely at peace in its natural surroundings.

This is what our guests wake up to each morning. A quiet veranda to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, winding garden paths to explore, and beautiful spaces to simply sit, relax and soak in the tranquillity.

The colours are vibrant, the foliage is rich and lush, butterflies dance amongst the flowers, and every turn reveals something new to admire. Look up through the canopy to the blue sky above and feel the calm that comes from being surrounded by nature.

Paperbark Retreat is more than a place to stay—it's a place to slow down, breathe deeply, reconnect with nature, and experience the simple magic of Far North Queensland.

Come and see it for yourself. We would love to share this little piece of paradise with you. 💚
Book today ring Sue direct on 0431549071

28/05/2026

Reviews like the one below truly mean the world to us 💛
Hearing that guests felt relaxed, welcomed and didn’t want to leave makes all the hard work worthwhile.
Thank you Nikola and friends for choosing Paperbark Retreat for your Cooktown getaway — we loved having you here.
We hope to welcome you back around the firepit again someday 🌿🔥

22/05/2026

Life at Paperbark Retreat really is something special… sometimes I have to pinch myself and ask… “Is this a dream?”
But no… it’s real… and we get to share it with wonderful guests and friends every day.
Tony and I have created this little tropical paradise ourselves — every garden bed, bush track, firepit and relaxing corner. Yes, we do all the work ourselves too… keeps us fit!
There’s something magical about life here. Afternoon tea on the verandah with friends, wandering through the gardens, spotting birds and butterflies, exploring the bush tracks on our property, fishing the beautiful local waterways, cooling off in the pool, or relaxing around the firepit under a sky full of stars.
And of course, delicious home-cooked meals by yours truly! 🍷🍽️
The dry season in Cooktown is simply beautiful and full of adventure. Whether you want to explore the wonders of the Cape, fish the mighty Endeavour River, discover hidden waterholes, or simply rest and unwind in peaceful surroundings… Paperbark Retreat is the perfect place to stay.
And trust us… 2 days is never enough! As they say… “Stay another day!” You really won’t regret it.
When you book direct, you’re not just booking a room — you’re getting the whole experience:
🌴 Personalised hospitality
🌴 Local knowledge and hidden gems
🌴 A peaceful tropical retreat
🌴 Genuine country warmth and friendship
We love spoiling our guests and making them feel completely at home.
Life is good at Paperbark Retreat. ❤️

Ring Sue directly to book your stay:
📞 0431 549 071

19/05/2026

At Paperbark Retreat we are always creating new spaces for guests to explore, wander and simply breathe in the beauty of nature.

This week has been all about opening up more beautiful bush pathways and quiet places to sit, relax and immerse yourself in the tranquil magic that surrounds us. From the large tropical landscaped gardens to winding bush tracks lined with ancient cycads, grass trees, palms and native trees, every pathway leads you deeper into peace and serenity.

As you wander, listen to the birds calling through the trees and catch glimpses of them soaring overhead or resting quietly amongst the branches. Watch butterflies dancing from flower to flower, drifting gently through the gardens like little pieces of magic.

We’ve created peaceful spots along the way where you can pause, sit quietly and simply take it all in… the sounds of the bush, the beauty of the trees, the stillness, the fresh air, the feeling of total calm washing over you.

Here, nature slows you down.
Here, the bush embraces you.
Here, you reconnect with what truly matters.

It’s magic.
It’s wondrous.
It’s Paperbark Retreat.

17/05/2026

This weekend, we welcomed a delightful group of ladies.... girls trip! Thank you for selecting Paperbark Retreat.... we eagerly await your next visit!