Malanda is a small town that you are likely to pass as you explore the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland. The area is known for having amazing produce and the views across the valleys are stunning. For more read Issue 26 of SIPs where I outline exactly what we did during the trip. One highlight though was the Cathedral Fig, a 500 year old tree that towers 50 m over you with a crown as big as 2 Olympic swimming pools. The tree took my breath away. If you are in the region, make this a priority.
What was supposed to be a quick caffeine stop turned into a long, enjoyable moment as we lingered for much longer than we should have (there is a lot to do and see in the region). But it was worth it. The hot chocolate is very nice. They use Plenty Rich Cocoa, a 40% cocoa blend with Australian cane sugar and Rainforest alliance certified cocoa powder. It tasted a lot darker than 40 and was really nice. The taste of a hot chocolate, or any drink for matter, is impacted by the mug it is served in (at last in my opinion). This was served in a beautiful glazed cup and, of course, served with white an pink Aussie marshmallows.
We stayed at Malanda Falls Caravan Park which was really nice. If you are lucky, you can even spot platypus in the falls right next to the park. If you do want to see a platypus, don’t bring your noisy kids…platypus don’t like noisy kids, as we discovered!
Verdict: I think this place is for sale. I might have bought it if it was closer to where I live (or if I had the money…details…) Malanda Collective, 17 English St, Malanda, Queensland, Australia
