Cooktown is worthy of a few days stop-over. Just a short drive from Lakeland, along the Mulligan Highway, is one of the best kept secrets of Cape York Peninsula. Cooktown was established at the very site where in 1770 Lt. James Cook careened his ship the H.M.B ‘Endeavour’ for much needed repairs. A life-size statue of the famous explorer now stands at the very spot where he stepped ashore. Cooktown is a beautiful, unspoilt, small coastal town surrounded by stunning countryside. Less than 3.5 hours drive from Cairns, Cooktown is the perfect location to base yourself as you explore the Cape York Region. Surrounding the township are magnificent waterfalls, deserted beaches, walking trails and tropical rainforest. Little Annan Gorge is a spectacular waterway carved by nature from black granite. The historical James Cook Museum contains some of Lt. James Cook’s personal items, as well as items from the Endeavour. Another historical ‘must-do’ is The History Centre on Charlotte Street which also offers family research facilities. Cooktown is a world-class fishing destination with close proximity to a river and reef as well as land based fishing options. The Grassy Hill Lookout offers breathtaking 360 degree views of Cooktown