Magical Maggie

Packed up ready for Magnetic Island then headed off to Castle Hill (300m) - Tom and Sarah walking up the Goat Track while Ben, Rosa and Ed drove to the ferry terminal to make our booking then met us at the top. Fantastic views of Townsville and Magnetic Island from the many lookouts. Having not warmed to Airlie Beach, we are the complete opposite with Townsville. It has such a good feeling, and we really like it - a laidback low key and very attractive town.

After admiring the views, we then made for the ferry terminal where we bade farewell to Pearl who we have left parked at the terminal. We caught the 10.45 car ferry and in a smooth 35 minutes were stepping off on "Maggie", which is what the locals call Magnetic Island. We shared a taxi across to Horseshoe Bay and checked into "Sails on Horseshoe" which is where Sarah's aunt and uncle have a unit. WOW. Magnetic Island, and Horseshoe Bay, are just magical, really beautiful and interesting looking terrain, and amazing beaches. The whole place has such a relaxed feeling and holiday vibe, but it is not at all crowded. Horseshoe Bay itself is just a tiny cluster of shops/cafes along a beautiful beach. Our unit is just lovely (and of course such luxury after Pearl!) and definitely the pick - two whole bedrooms (!), upstairs and overlooking the beach so that we can sit on the balcony listening to the waves lap. Needless to say we spent the afternoon on the stunning beach finishing off with a dip in the pool. Then it was off to Nelly Bay to get the week's supplies, drinks and nibbles on the balcony, then a luxurious bath before bed.