As someone who's been to Port Douglas a few times, I was looking for something a little more "out of the limelight" as a relaxing break for us both. After much searching, I came across Marae and, not being at all familiar with the location, made an booking largely based on the reviews. And we were not disappointed. Pam and John are delightful hosts and made us both feel completely at ease and welcome into their amazing home.

The property is located 10 mins drive from Port Douglas and 5 mins from Mossman. The map reference on TripAdvisor is a little incorrect - the property is the first on the left up Chook's Ridge and sits on a hill overlooking the surrounding valley surrounded by trees.

Two rooms are available. The first sits on the ground level overlooking the pool whilst the 2nd is on the main first floor area (Pam & John live on the 2nd floor). We had the 2nd room - it was large and spacious with a huge king bed (always a godsend) covered in a large mosquito net. The room has airconditioning (although wasn't needed) and a fan. All windows open outwards for great circulation and give the room an outside feel. The only let down was that none are screened - which is find in winter but might be an issue in summer (we had a couple of mozzies invade even in October).

Breakfast is taken on the shaded rear overlooking the escarpment above Mossman Gorge - it's a truly breathtaking way to start the day - and the food was amazing (thanks John)!

Getting to and from Port or Mossman was no problem - a short drive to both. Port is probably a little distant because you have to endure the main drag in (more like 15 mins) but doable. The only concern we had was that, because of the distance, we couldn't go into town and have drink - and as we were in town to celebrate a birthday, it did limit our options. Alas, Pam & John choose not to offer dinner and with no cooking facilities (e.g. BBQ), your only option is to head into Port or Mossman. Actually, I lie - had we thought it out, we could've easily ordered takeaway in Mossman and returned with it still warm to eat at Marae - so perhaps a little planning would overcome that one!

Overall our stay at Marae was perfect. We really had a relaxing time and ended up having a wonderful trip away - largely in part thanks to the hospitality of Pam and John.

We will be returning!!!

PS - Check out Pam's photos on the way in
PPS - If you want a place to cool off, don't bother with Mossman Gorge (it'll be packed with tourists trying to kill themselves in the rapids), ask Pam or John if the nearby creek is running. It's a short walk (15mins) or even quicker drive (2 mins) on the back road to Mossman. It's well shaded and should have delightfully cool water coming down from the mountains.

Beautiful natural setting - we cooled off in the pool outside our room watched by kookaburras in the nearby trees and loved Waking to the dawn chorus of local birds. Great access to Mossman Gorge and other attractions. A real far North Queensland experience with a gekko or two to prove it! Pam and John are excellent hosts and serve a terrific al fresco breakfast.

We really enjoyed our stay here. Pam and John are wonderful people. Really hospitable, nice and enthusiastic company.
We enjoyed drinking a glass of wine with them at the end of the day to talk about our adventures.
We stayed in the garden room. The room was big, clean, really nice bed, wonderful view on the garden. The location is also perfect. 15 minutes from Port Douglas and about 8 minutes from Mossman. The breakfast in the morning was amazing! We even got a breakfast desert! Really jummy pancakes or a warm waffle.
We would definately recommend this B&B to everyone!!