Ant Hill Hotel

Located in the heart of the vibrant town of Mareeba, the Ant Hill Hotel is the quintessential classic Australian country pub. This cozy establishment, nestled in the picturesque Atherton Tablelands of Queensland, has long been a favorite for both locals and travelers exploring the northern reaches of Australia.

The hotel is famous for its steakhouse and bar, which many consider the best in town. It’s the perfect sanctuary from the tropical heat, where you can enjoy cool drinks in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The name "Ant Hill" adds a special local touch, referencing the famous termite mounds frequently found in these parts.

Inside, guests will find traditional amenities: a high-end gaming area, attentive service, and a restaurant serving classic dishes prepared with a true love for Far North Queensland culinary traditions. This is more than just a bar; it’s a place with soul that captures the authentic spirit of the Australian outback.

For booking inquiries or event planning, you can contact the staff directly. The Ant Hill Hotel always welcomes guests and is ready to offer quality service in the best traditions of Australian hospitality.

There is something for everyone at the Ant Hill Hotel. The main draw is the famous bar, where you can escape the midday sun and enjoy a glass of cold beer in the company of friendly staff. It’s the perfect place to feel the rhythm of the local community and make interesting new acquaintances.

Food lovers should definitely visit the local restaurant. The steakhouse menu offers a wide selection of meat dishes and classic appetizers. Lunch is served from Tuesday to Saturday (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM), while dinner is available from Tuesday to Thursday (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) and on Friday and Saturday (until 9:00 PM). Every dish is prepared with fresh ingredients, highlighting the home-style nature of the kitchen.

For those looking for light entertainment, there is a modern gaming room with high-level service. Additionally, the pub is an excellent venue for various events—from small family gatherings to corporate celebrations—all of which can be confidently entrusted to the venue's friendly team.

Finding the Ant Hill Hotel is easy, as it is located at 79 Byrnes St, right in the heart of town. Mareeba is approximately an hour's drive from Cairns. Travelers by car should follow the Captain Cook Highway and then turn onto the local roads leading to the Atherton Tablelands.

If you prefer public transport, intercity buses and trains stop in the town, reflecting its historical role as an important regional transport hub. The hotel is just a few minutes' walk from the railway station or bus stop.

For those who value comfort, taxis are always available from anywhere in town. Parking spaces are provided near the pub, making it a convenient stop for those exploring North Queensland in a rental car.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the development of the town of Mareeba itself, which was originally known as Granite Creek. In the late 19th century, Cobb & Co stagecoaches stopped here, and the railway arrived later. The hotels on Byrnes Street have always been hubs of social life for local farmers and prospectors.

Interestingly, the modern Ant Hill Hotel building stands on the site of an old establishment called the Arms, which was unfortunately destroyed by fire. Until 1996, the pub was known as Dunlops Hotel, and later briefly carried the name Highlander before gaining its current name, which has become a recognizable local brand.

The hotel likely got its unusual name—"Ant Hill"—from the characteristic landscape of the surroundings. Approaching the town from the north, you can see numerous termite mounds that are an integral part of the local Queensland landscape. This name emphasizes the establishment's close connection to nature and the unique character of the Australian outback.

To get a quick feel for the atmosphere and enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, 1 hour is plenty. It’s a great place to take a short break while walking through town or during a long drive through the Tablelands.

If you plan on having a full lunch or dinner at the local steakhouse, it’s worth setting aside about 2–3 hours. This will allow you to enjoy the food at a leisurely pace, check out the gaming room, and perhaps chat with the locals who often drop by in the evenings.

The establishment is open daily, offering guests flexible visiting hours. The pub doors open at 10:00 AM. From Monday to Tuesday and on Sunday, the hotel stays open until midnight, while from Wednesday to Saturday, the fun continues until 1:30 AM.

Please note the kitchen hours: lunch is served Tuesday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Dinner is available Tuesday to Saturday, starting at 6:00 PM. It is recommended to check current opening times or book tables in advance via the official website.

A stroll around the area surrounding the Ant Hill Hotel will allow you to better experience the atmosphere of this hospitable region. Within walking distance, you'll find cozy cafes as well as historical markers telling the story of the town's past.