The Forts — Attraction in Florence Bay

If you only get time to do one hike on Magnetic Island make sure this is the one. The easy walk is packed full of military history, wildlife and stunning views in all directions from the summit. There is a small car park before the descent to Horseshoe Bay from Arcadia with longdrop toilets and plenty of information boards. The local bus service also has a scheduled stop shelter.

Allow between 90 minutes and 2 hours for a return trip and aim to start early morning if you want to enjoy some active Koalas on the relatively straightforward ascent (you may spot some clues in the form of stick markers or arrows in the sand, or simply other walkers staring into the eucalypts).

Lots of information boards en route, particularly relating to the fascinating military history and a range of buildings to explore near the summit, including gun emplacements, observation tower and communications tower. These can be easily accessed via a short circular pathway, but take care on its rocky descent.

The views from these various vantage points are simply stunning, particularly towards Horseshoe Bay, but with the majority of the Island being a national park, the unspoilt beauty on display in all directions is something...

An excellent walk, best undertaken in the morning although there is plenty of shade on the route. Along the way there were a number of WW2 sites, complete with explanatory boards.

However the real spectacle comes at the end, where there is a steep climb up to the command centre and the operations centre. Make sure that you do not miss either of them, because each gives you a fantastic view across the island.

The other highlight was the sighting of three koalas, each one helpfully marked on the ground with arrows made with sticks. Nearer dawn or dusk you would probably see other wildlife.

In terms of practicalities, the walk starts at a bus stop and car park just above Horseshoe Bay. There are no toilets on the way, or at the bus stop. The walking is relatively easy until the final 800 metre loop. You will need to have at least average agility to safely cover this section of the walk - which also happens to be the best. You will need stout shoes, suntan lotion and water. We took around 2.5 hours to complete the walk, but we did take our time - and lots of...

This is a 1.5 to 2 hour walk (3.8km return), for the moderately fit, up to the site of an old World War 2 artillery and signalling station. Its a lovely bush walk overlooking Arthur and Florence bays. At the top you are rewarded with the most insane 360 views of Magnetic Island, Cape Cleveland and the Coral Sea. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. The first section follows the old access road and is relatively easy with drinking water available part of the way up. There are signs along the way describing history and wildlife. The second section from the base camp to the battery and command posts is steeper. Keep a look out for Koalas - the locals usually mark a sighting with an arrow on the ground so keep your eye out! When descending you can return down the back side of the camp which is quite steep and uneven, or retrace your steps for an...