Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Day 6: Chasing Waterfalls and Diamonds: A Kimberley Adventure

Discover the rugged beauty of Emma Gorge, the thrill of El Questro, and the sparkle of Kimberley diamonds. A day of Kimberley wonders!

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A Day of Kimberley Wonders


Today was a whirlwind of natural beauty and sparkling treasures! Liam and I dove headfirst into the heart of the Kimberley, experiencing everything from majestic gorges to the allure of rare diamonds. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my Danish roots for a life of adventure and photography.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Villarett Gardens. It was a charming spot, and the food was delicious, setting us up perfectly for the adventures ahead. I always appreciate a good breakfast before a long day of exploring, especially when it involves hiking! Then we set off towards El Questro Wilderness Park, eager to explore its famed landscapes.

Our first stop was Emma Gorge. The drive there was stunning, with the rugged red landscape stretching out before us. El Questro is about 110 kilometers west of Kununurra. Once we arrived, the walk to the gorge itself was an adventure. The trail was a mix of flat paths, rocky scrambles, and creek crossings. It took us about an hour to reach the gorge, and the anticipation grew with every step.

As we rounded the final bend, Emma Gorge revealed itself in all its glory. The towering cliffs, adorned with lush greenery, framed a crystal-clear pool fed by a graceful waterfall. The brochure promised a refreshing swim, and I was determined to brave the cold water. Liam, ever the sensible one, opted to capture the scene with his camera while I took the plunge.

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Emma Gorge in Durack, WA, a natural paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Emma Gorge in Durack, WA, a natural paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
The water was indeed bracing, to put it mildly! It was shockingly cold, but the kind of cold that makes you feel alive. I swam towards the waterfall, feeling the icy water cascade over me. There's also a small thermal spring trickling in, but it did little to ease the chill. After a few minutes, I emerged, shivering but exhilarated. It was an experience I wouldn't trade for anything.

The Kimberley has a way of stripping away the unnecessary and leaving you with the raw, beautiful essence of nature.


After Emma Gorge, we grabbed a quick lunch, a packed meal, by the Pentecost River. The Pentecost River crossing is iconic, and while we didn't attempt to cross (our rental 4WD is good, but not *that* good), we enjoyed the views and the sense of adventure in the air. The river is known for its barramundi fishing, and I could see a few hopeful anglers casting their lines. We kept a keen eye out for the estuarine crocodiles that inhabit the river, but thankfully, we didn't spot any.

Next on our list was the El Questro Wilderness Park - Kununurra Office. We stopped by the office to get some information about the park and plan our next adventures. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing us with maps and tips for exploring the area. El Questro spans a massive 700,000 acres, so planning is essential. We learned about the various gorges, thermal springs, and 4WD tracks that the park has to offer. We're already making plans to explore more of El Questro tomorrow, perhaps tackling El Questro Gorge itself or relaxing in Zebedee Springs.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse adventures at El Questro Wilderness Park, a natural haven in Kununurra, Western Australia.
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse adventures at El Questro Wilderness Park, a natural haven in Kununurra, Western Australia.
Before heading back to Kununurra, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. We stopped at Kimberley Fine Diamonds, one of Australia's leading suppliers of Argyle pink diamonds. As a photographer, I'm drawn to the way light plays on different surfaces, and these diamonds were mesmerizing. I learned about the history of the Argyle mine and the rarity of these stunning gems. While a pink diamond is definitely out of my budget, it was a treat to admire their beauty and craftsmanship.

Explore the exquisite world of diamonds and fine jewelry at Kimberley Fine Diamonds in Kununurra, where elegance meets exceptional craftsmanship.
Explore the exquisite world of diamonds and fine jewelry at Kimberley Fine Diamonds in Kununurra, where elegance meets exceptional craftsmanship.
Finally, for dinner, we decided to try the Kimberley Hotel. It was the perfect way to end a busy day. Reflecting on the day, I realized how much the Kimberley has to offer. From the rugged landscapes to the sparkling diamonds, it's a place of contrasts and surprises. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this unique part of Australia with Liam by my side. It is currently late in the evening, and I'm exhausted, but in the best possible way.

Discover comfort and local flavor at the Kimberley Hotel in Halls Creek, your gateway to Western Australia's stunning landscapes.
Discover comfort and local flavor at the Kimberley Hotel in Halls Creek, your gateway to Western Australia's stunning landscapes.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Kununurra and its surroundings. Five Rivers Lookout and Celebrity Tree Park are on the agenda. And perhaps we'll end the day with a drink at the Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant. Until then, goodnight from the Kimberley!

Go to day 5 Chasing Horizons: Kimberley's Ancient Majesty
Go to day 7 Rivers, Trees, and Outback Feasts: A Day of Wonders in Kununurra
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Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

Join us as we explore The Kimberley's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, capturing its essence through photography and adventure.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Mette Thomsen
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Photographer specializing in landscape and adventure photography
  • Country icon Country: Canada
  • Age icon Age: 33

Hej! I'm Mette, a freelance photographer and travel blogger originally from Denmark, now based in the beautiful Canadian Rockies. My journey began in the charming town of Nyborg, where my love for nature first took root. Together with my husband, Liam, I traverse the globe, capturing the essence of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures through my lens. I'm passionate about sustainable travel, uncovering hidden gems, and sharing stories that inspire others to explore our incredible planet responsibly. Join me as I share my adventures, practical tips, and reflections on the world around us!

Interests:
  • Sustainability
  • Nordic Noir literature
  • Glacier National Park
  • Wildlife conservation
  • Scandinavian design
More about Mette Thomsen

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Emma Gorge

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  • El Questro Wilderness Park - Kununurra Office

    Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse adventures at El Questro Wilderness Park, a natural haven in Kununurra, Western Australia.

  • Villarett Gardens

    Experience the serenity of Villarett Gardens in Tasmania - where stunning landscapes meet exquisite dining and unforgettable celebrations.

  • Pentecost River

    Explore the stunning Pentecost River in Western Australia - a paradise for nature lovers with breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.

  • Kimberley Hotel

    Discover comfort and local flavor at the Kimberley Hotel in Halls Creek, your gateway to Western Australia's stunning landscapes.

  • Kimberley Fine Diamonds

    Explore the exquisite world of diamonds and fine jewelry at Kimberley Fine Diamonds in Kununurra, where elegance meets exceptional craftsmanship.

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