Exploring the Majestic Bungle Bungle Range with Family

Day 2: Into the Heart of the Bungle Bungles: Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm

Discover the majestic Cathedral Gorge and the narrow Echidna Chasm in the Bungle Bungles, a journey through ancient wonders with family.

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Whispers of the Ancient World


Today, Astrid, Lasse and I ventured deeper into the Bungle Bungle Range, a place where time seems to stand still and the landscape whispers stories of the ancient world. After a hearty breakfast at the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, we set out to explore Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm, two iconic landmarks that promised a day filled with awe and wonder. The air was crisp, and the anticipation was palpable as we prepared to immerse ourselves in the heart of Purnululu National Park.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park - a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site in Western Australia.
Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park - a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site in Western Australia.

Our first stop was Cathedral Gorge. As we approached, the sheer scale of the gorge was simply breathtaking. The towering cliffs formed a natural amphitheater, a cathedral sculpted by millennia of wind and rain. The entrance to the gorge was wide and inviting, but as we walked further in, the space opened up dramatically, revealing the full grandeur of the natural structure. The acoustics were incredible; every whisper echoed and amplified, creating a sense of reverence and awe. I couldn't help but think of the countless generations of Aboriginal people who have walked this land, their voices echoing through these same walls.

Explore the breathtaking Cathedral Gorge in Purnululu National Park, where nature's beauty meets rich cultural heritage in Western Australia.
Explore the breathtaking Cathedral Gorge in Purnululu National Park, where nature's beauty meets rich cultural heritage in Western Australia.

Lasse was particularly fascinated by the way the light filtered through the opening at the top of the gorge, creating a spotlight effect on the rock formations below. He spent a good amount of time experimenting with his camera, trying to capture the perfect shot. Astrid, ever the librarian, was engrossed in her guidebook, reading about the geological history of the gorge and sharing interesting facts with us. It's moments like these, sharing knowledge and experiences with my family, that make these trips so special. We paused for lunch courtesy of Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge enjoying the tranquility and the sandwich before continuing our journey.

Discover eco-friendly luxury at Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge in Purnululu National Park—where adventure meets comfort in stunning natural surroundings.
Discover eco-friendly luxury at Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge in Purnululu National Park—where adventure meets comfort in stunning natural surroundings.

The Bungle Bungles are a testament to the power of nature and the enduring spirit of the land.


After Cathedral Gorge, we drove towards the northern end of the park to explore Echidna Chasm. The landscape shifted as we moved north, the iconic beehive domes giving way to more rugged, rocky terrain. The drive itself was an adventure, the unsealed roads testing our vehicle and our patience. I was glad I had the foresight to ensure we had a reliable 4x4 for this journey. I must remember to get a portable phone charger for our next adventure though, as I forgot to pack it this time.

Explore Echidna Chasm in Purnululu National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder of towering cliffs and vibrant rock formations in Western Australia.
Explore Echidna Chasm in Purnululu National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder of towering cliffs and vibrant rock formations in Western Australia.

Echidna Chasm was a completely different experience from Cathedral Gorge. Where Cathedral Gorge was open and expansive, Echidna Chasm was narrow and intimate. As we walked into the chasm, the walls closed in around us, the towering cliffs rising hundreds of meters on either side. At some points, the chasm was so narrow that we could almost touch both walls at the same time. The sunlight filtering through the top created a dramatic play of light and shadow, illuminating the vibrant orange and red hues of the rock. The Livistona palms clinging to the cliffs added a touch of prehistoric beauty to the scene.

The walk through Echidna Chasm required a bit more effort, with some rocky sections and small ladders to navigate. Lasse, with his youthful energy, bounded ahead, eager to explore every nook and cranny. Astrid and I took a more measured pace, carefully placing our feet and taking in the incredible scenery. I was reminded of our hikes in the Danish Lake District, although the landscape here was far more dramatic and unforgiving. The scar on my cheek, a memento from a childhood football match in Arezzo, seemed to tingle as I imagined the forces of nature that had shaped this incredible place.

As we emerged from Echidna Chasm, we took a moment to reflect on the day's adventures. We had walked through ancient cathedrals and narrow chasms, marveling at the power and beauty of the natural world. We had shared laughter, stories, and quiet moments of contemplation. And as we drove back to the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, where we enjoyed a well-deserved drink at the bar before dinner at The Bungle Bungles restaurant, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place with my family. The staff were friendly and helpful which was great.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Piccaninny Creek Lookout and Kungkalanayi Lookout, hoping to gain a different perspective on this remarkable landscape. Astrid is keen to visit The Bungle Bungles shop, and I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery with my loved ones. I wonder what new wonders await us?

The Bungle Bungles have a way of seeping into your soul, reminding you of the insignificance of your worries and the importance of connecting with nature and loved ones. As I sat by the crackling fire, under a blanket of stars, I felt a profound sense of peace and contentment. The challenges of restoring antique furniture back in Silkeborg seemed a world away, replaced by the simple joy of being present in this moment, in this place, with my family.

The Bungle Bungles are more than just a collection of rock formations; they are a testament to the power of nature and the enduring spirit of the land. They are a place where you can lose yourself and find yourself, all at the same time. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that this journey would stay with me long after we had left this magical place.
Go to day 1 Embarking on a Bungle Bungle Adventure: First Impressions and Anticipations
Go to day 3 Bungle Bungle's Striking Vistas: A Day of Lookouts and Landscapes
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Exploring the Majestic Bungle Bungle Range with Family

Discover the breathtaking Bungle Bungle Range with your family and explore its natural wonders and cultural heritage on an immersive Australian adventure.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Andrea Colombo
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Restorer of Antique Furniture
  • Country icon Country: Denmark
  • Age icon Age: 47

Ciao! I'm Andrea Colombo, a restorer of antique furniture with a passion for history, art, and exploring different cultures. Born in Italy and now living in Denmark, I've spent my life surrounded by craftsmanship and stories of the past. Join me as I share my travel experiences, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical facts, and practical tips for those who appreciate immersive and authentic journeys. Together with my family, I seek out unique destinations, connect with local communities, and uncover the hidden gems that make each place special. Benvenuti!

Interests:
  • History
  • Art
  • Architecture
  • Different Cultures
  • Culinary Experiences
More about Andrea Colombo

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