Village Stroll & Local Culture
The little village of Paluma is full of character and history. Once built on the “three T’s” — Tin, Timber and Tourism — it now welcomes visitors with heritage trails, gardens and friendly locals.
Don’t miss:
Paluma History Display at the Community Centre
Paluma Pottery by Len Cook on Lennox Crescent
Local Markets (Easter and October long weekends)
Free Wi-Fi and visitor info at the Community Centre
Take a slow wander through the village, admire the gardens, and finish with coffee and cake at Ivy Cottage Café — a local favourite.
Birdwatching & Wildlife
Paluma sits within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, home to an incredible mix of wildlife. Mornings often start with the calls of whipbirds and rosellas, while evenings hum with frogs and crickets.
Birds you might spot:
Victoria’s Riflebird, Crimson Rosella, Spotted Catbird, Whipbird, White-headed Pigeon, and the Satin or Golden Bowerbird.
Keep an eye out for brush turkeys, bandicoots, and the occasional tree kangaroo. Bring binoculars, or simply enjoy the soundtrack of the forest from the veranda.
Walks & Nature
There’s a fantastic network of trails and rainforest tracks around Paluma. Whether you’re after an easy walk for a morning wander or a full-day adventure, you’ll find something here.
Top picks:
Ethel Creek Falls via Colwyns Track (~7 km return) – starting from the village end.
Witts Lookout & Cloudy Creek – beginner-friendly, with fantastic views in clear weather.
Bluegum Circuit – steeper, more rugged with creek crossings and waterfalls.
Crystal Creek Falls & Torsten’s Rock Garden (11 km circuit) – a full day out, mossy boulders, rainforest, and a clear swimming hole.
