Kingfisher Park Birdwatchers Lodge

Although unfortunately closed this time around, and opening on the 19th of April, we spent some time walking the perimeter and got to see and photograph a Buff-breasted paradise-kingfisher, an Olive sunbird and a number of other species of birds. A premier birding location, as is the entire Julatten region.

For serious birders, this is the perfect place to stay. The rooms are not fancy, but very functional and with nicely-equipped kitchenettes. The low-impact ethos of the operation was impressive. The grounds are exceptional, with abundant birding opportunities right outside the door, and diverse Australian wildlife throughout. The proprietors are knowledgeable and engaging, able to provide excellent advice on regional birding and guiding services (which were top-notch, by the way). This is not a place for everyone, but for the right people, it is paradise.

A wonderful stay with Carol and Andrew. We had a basic 1 bedroom unit which was simply, but very comfortably, outfitted. It was spacious and includes a large bathroom with shower and even has an extra bed in it. This is an unplugged and quiet place that is about the birds and nature so don' look for a TV or computer hookup. We even cooked in, using the well appointed kitchen area. That is a very good choice here since restaurants are not close by. It is very easy to get to but has a feeling of being very secluded and removed. But the birds are close by! Wow! What a great place to wake up to the birds in. The hosts are experts and our guided birding tour with Carol was outstanding. She was accommodating and knowledgeable and heryears of experience put us on to nearly every bird on our list. She also answered our every need from sharing maps and books that interested us, to loaning us stools to take out to watch a glorious sunset over the mountain from the edge of the park. The property itself deserves another rave review. The orchards were my favorite spot due to the lovely scented air and the resident pademelons that romped along the forest border. There are feeders and baths and ponds and streams. My husband even saw a platypus there! He is a very serious birder while I am mostly along for the photographs- and he was extremely pleased with this stop on our Australia trip- these people are serious birders. 5 star for birders, nature lovers looking to get away, and photographers. Love it.

Great for birds but no aircon so very hot even at night

If you are a serious birdwatcher, this is the place to go and in fact it was our sole purpose in visiting. We stayed in a two bedroom apartment which was very comfortable with full kitchen facilities and a large living space. Undercover verandah for birdwatching and mozzie coils are provided, although we didn't find the mosquitoes too bad in June when we visited. There is also bunk room accommodation and motel style rooms available and a full camp kitchen. Carole and Andrew are delightful and knowledgeable hosts who provide an excellent service at all times. We did a two hour walk with Carole at Kingfisher Lodge as well as a morning birdwatching excursion. Both were thoroughly worthwhile and we saw many new birds. If you are expecting a quiet relaxing holiday then this isn't the place for you, you'll be too busy chasing" birds."

Clean, comfy and friendly hosts located in a pocket rainforest. Loved waking up to the sound of the birds and watching them come in to feed. Great spot to rest and explore the nearby mountains. Was a nice break to have no TV.

These guys are so knowledgeable on the local birds. Of course it's a brilliant spot if you want to see birds. Go up Mt Lewis

Stayed in the Orange-footed Scrubfowl room. Basic but clean. Great bird activity on the property and the surrounding area. If you're lucky you'll catch a glimpse of the platypus in the river.

Great place for seeing birds/wildlife. Carol and Andrew were very helpful and knowledgeable on wildlife. We enjoyed our 4 night stay. Would stay again.

Looking a little tired, but a lovely place to visit and enjoy the birds.