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Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree

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Exterior
Room
Unclassified image, 3 of 12, button
Private kitchen
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree

Boutique holiday retreat just 30 minutes north of Port Douglas.
The Botanical Ark Retreat offers so much more than just exclusive Daintree accommodation. It's your own private peaceful retreat with freshwater swimming area, free WiFi and set amongst the award winning gardens of The Botanical Ark. This secluded property borders the Daintree National Park and is just 30 minutes from the Daintree River ferry or Port Douglas, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and fabulous restaurants.

The Botanical Ark is not open to the public so guests at The Botanical Ark Retreat have exclusive use, privacy is guaranteed, and identities remain confidential.

The Botanical Ark Retreat is a spacious tropical self-contained home, with a gourmet kitchen, and a king sized master bedroom with marble ensuite and spa-bath. Three additional private bedrooms at the rear of the house (2x queen and 1 room of 2 singles) share an additional shower and toilet and allows up to 8 guests to stay.

Relax on the wide verandah overlooking the bubbling freshwater lagoon, with it's own private sandy beach. Wake to the songs of rainforest birds, and enjoy the tranquility of the garden.

The Botanical Ark Retreat is ideal for couples, family holidays and friendly reunions. Nature abounds in our peaceful Whyanbeel valley of jungle clad mountains and waterfalls.

Located within the valley are an art gallery, High Falls Farm Restaurant, and Karnak Playhouse. (Some of these venues are seasonal and/or open on specific days only). Local chocolate farmers also operate farm tours and a chocolate centre.

The closest town is Mossman, just 20 minutes away, which is the administrative and service centre for the Port Douglas and Daintree area. Here you will find popular cafes and Mojo's restaurant (recommended), along with two butchers, a bakery, newsagent, new Woolworths supermarket, doctors, hospitals and more. Port Douglas is just a further 10 minutes south. Mossman has a Saturday morning market and Port Douglas a Sunday market.

The area is rich in activities and exploring, from Crocodile cruises, and bird watching, to the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal Cultural Centre and tours, paddle boarding, river and ocean fishing, bushwalking and helicopter tours, Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving and more.

The region is also rich in history. The world famous Quinkan Country Prehistoric Aboriginal Art Galleries are found in the magnificent sandstone escarpments to the north west. Gold, copper and tin mining towns, some abandoned, and others still functioning can be explored, and numerous locations relevant to Captain James Cooks trials and tribulations can be found along the beautiful coast. The elevated Atherton Tablelands to the west are home to ancient volcanic craters and lakes, rich soils and highland rainforests. Small towns dot the area and weekend markets are to be enjoyed.

WIFI
Please note that although WIFI is available, it is via satellite so has restricted downloads. Please enquire if you require further information on this.

Optional Extras

PRIVATE GARDEN TOUR
The Botanical Ark Retreat is located within the gardens of The Botanical Ark. Private, guided tours are available on request and subject to availability. Please contact your host for further information and rates.

THE BOTANICAL ARK BOOK
The Botanical Ark Book is available for purchase. Please contact your host should you wish to purchase a copy.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Check out before 10:00 AM

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Children

Adults only

Children only permitted with prior permission

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Events

No events allowed

Events only permitted with prior permission

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Pets

No pets allowed

Pets only permitted with prior permission

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 9152781
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Events only permitted with prior permission
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Whyanbeel

Located in Whyanbeel, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Mossman Golf Club and Shannonvale Tropical Fruit Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Hook-A-Barra and Daintree Wild Zoo. Jet skiing and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and cycling nearby.
View more Holiday homes in WhyanbeelOpens in a new window
Map
Whyanbeel, QLD

What's nearby

  • Wet Tropics of Queensland - 3 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Four Mile Beach - 45 min drive - 41.1 km
  • Macrossan Street - 47 min drive - 45.6 km
  • Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina - 48 min drive - 46.0 km
  • Sugar Wharf - 48 min drive - 46.3 km

Restaurants

  • Coffee Plus
  • Belissimo
  • ‪Treehouse Restaurant - ‬24 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree?

As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree on 15 May 2026 start from AU$887, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Botanical Ark Retreat near the Daintree located?

This family-friendly Whyanbeel holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Wet Tropics of Queensland and Daintree National Park. Kahana Nature Refuge and Janbal Nature Refuge are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 13 out of 13 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 13 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leane S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This place was amazing our personal piece of paradise we will be back again so relaxing and peaceful

Awesome let's hit reset and start our paradise stay again then hit restart and never let it end
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2022
Thank you so much for your lovely review Leane. We would love to welcome you back to stay again one day!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vincenza T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

haven in the Daintree

A peaceful environment which allowed us to rest while being a stone throw from Mossman and port douglas
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug 2022
Lovely guests who felt at ease here and respected the environment and the property. We highly recommend them as guests- with pleasure and gratitude.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert B.

This accommodation is truly divine. Your own private pool at your front door.

Alan and Susan are very special inspirational people. Accommodation excellent , surroundings amazing. Hosts fantastic.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2022
Thank you Richard. Apologies for the delayed response, this message has only just shown up! We hope to see you again one day.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical!

Absolutely idyllic property with everything we needed and more. Simply put we couldn’t fault a thing! Well situated for all the Daintree offerings or absolutely blissful to spend time in the gorgeous property with stream fed private pool in luxuriant leafy setting. What Alan and Suzi are doing is absolutely crucial for saving of world rainforests. Thank you!!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2022
Thank you Richard for your lovely review. It was a pleasure to have you both stay with us and we’d love to welcome you back to stay again one day.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David krueger

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Truly special, secluded paradise

A unique property. The botanical ark grounds are truly extraordinary and created with great love and care. The house was well suited to our two families of four and featured a great natural swimming pool, lovely meals on the Verandha overlooking the pool and gardens and a very well equipped kitchen. Mossman is a Short drive away with great produce available. Alan & Suzi were great hosts and made sure we were well provided for. Our sons did a good job harvesting coconuts on the property and lots of great tropical fruits were provided by our hosts. A very special location which was great for exploring both the Daintree and Reef.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2022
Thank you David. Apologies for just finding this response box for your review. We hope to welcome you back to stay again one day.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tropical rainforest paradise

We had a fantastic time at your unique rainforest retreat. Just wished we had gotten the opportunity to meet the owners. Judging by the book we read at the retreat, that would have been a great bonus. Barbara
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ken G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful rainforest luxury

We had a wonderful stay. The property exceeded expectations, very well equiped and in an amazing setting. The natural swimming hole is beautiful. While being very isolated, Mossman, beaches and the Daintree are convenient. The hosts couldn't be better. Allowing us our privacy but also inviting us to a relaxed morning tea
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Helen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Rainforest Retreat

We enjoyed our stay in this very well appointed and presented house which is located in a private, tropical paradise. The house is generously stocked with quality linen, appliances, condiments and toiletries. Arriving to displays of beautiful tropical flowers throughout the house, a spectacular fruit bowl as well as wine and chocolates was a much appreciated surprise. Alan and Susan are outstanding Managers, who communicated clearly and assisted us with helpful tips/advice from the time of booking. We highly recommend the Botanical Ark to others who are travelling in Nth Qld and looking for a very luxurious rainforest retreat.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lee M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise Found

Such a glorious place! Coming from the dry ACT region we were treated to lush rainforest, exotic fruits and flowers and slept each night to the soothing sound of the rain. Each night we dined on the wide verandah and listened to the night sounds of the surrounding rainforest. Alan and Susan were warm and hospitable hosts. They have created a unique environment. We were privileged to have experienced it.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May 2021
It was indeed a pleasure to have you stay at our Retreat and to meet you and your family. The rain that falls here enables this garden to thrive amidst the surrounding ancient rainforests. We are happy you embraced the sounds of the flowing water and the animals that we enjoy so much. It adds to the peace and tranquility that we treasure. You were perfect quests and we welcome you back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mike Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Glorious tropical retreat

Amazing stay at this tropical paradise in the hills above mossman. Plenty of room and privacy, gourmet kitchen with lots and lots of basics provided, with the center of attention being the huge terrace overlooking the freshwater lagoon that we swam laps in every day ! WiFi and Netflix, every appliance we needed and air conditioning made it very easy for the whole family. About 15 min drive into the hills from mossman, and about 30 min to Daintree ferry to explore cape trib. Highly recommended and special!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dreamland

Amazing beyond words.... A true wonderland
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar 2020
Benjamin and family looked for something special and we are happy they stayed here. A lovely family that we'd welcome back anytime. They even changed their plans to spend more time at our retreat. Only positive memories from this family.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heaven

If your looking for a place that’s quiet isolated but still close to shops and holidaying “stuff”, with all the comforts of home then this is the place for you. With nature that’s associated with a rainforest, and clean water to swim in. This place was heavenly lol. This accommodation was so great that when we return we will be looking at staying here again
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar 2020
Good evening Jason, Thank you for your kind comments. We strive to create the atmosphere and comforts that people will appreciate. 36 years of planning, building and creating this garden and home and the magnificent peaceful location make it all work well. We welcome you back anytime and will endeavour to enhance the experience. We enjoyed meeting you.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Ella T.

Thank you for a wonderful, inspiring and restorative stay. We had a wonderful time.

It was like visiting the garden of Eden. Wonderfully warm hosts topped off a perfect getaway.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2018

About the host

Hosted by alan carle

Host profile image

I spent the first 19 years of my life in the Catskill Mountains, near Woodstock, New York State. My band played ‘in Woodstock’ – not to be confused with ‘at Woodstock’. From the age of ten, I knew that Australia was my true home, and was determined to reach her shores early in my life. I’ve been here since 1970 and my youthful judgment goes unchallenged.
I arrived in Sydney, Australia, on a one-way ticket in 1970 with eighty cents in my pocket. I headed north to the Great Barrier Reef where I had dreams of building an underwater house. I studied marine biology at the Townsville campus of James Cook University.
Together with my wife, Susan, from Brooklyn, NY we developed a deep appreciation of the natural beauty, wealth, and wonders of the planet.
It was plans by the Queensland Premier of the day, Joh Bjelke-Petersen, that led us on our present path. Bjelke-Petersen wanted to drill for oil on the Great Barrier Reef and chop down Queensland’s rainforests for woodchips. Alan left university to work full time for the Cape York Conservation Council in an effort to save these national icons.
Millions of people within Australia and around the world fought to protect the reef and rainforest. “Thankfully”, says Susan, “We won.” And today, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest are world heritage listed areas and promoted as, “Where the rainforest meets the reef”, and is probably one of the main reasons why you are or will be visiting this beautiful region.

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English

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