Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

First Light on the Gibb River Road

The Kimberley! After dreaming about this moment for months, Liam and I finally touched down in Broome, ready to start our adventure. The air was thick with anticipation (and a hint of jet lag!), but nothing could dampen our spirits as we picked up our trusty 4WD and set our sights on the legendary Gibb River Road. This was it, the start of our 16-day journey through one of Australia's most iconic and remote landscapes.

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Kimbercrust Bakery & Top End Ice in Kununurra. I opted for a freshly baked pastry, while Liam went for a more substantial savory option. Fortified for the day ahead, we hit the road, eager to experience the rugged beauty of the Kimberley. The Gibb River Road, a 660-kilometer stretch of mostly unsealed road, promised adventure and a true taste of the outback. December marks the start of the wet season, so we knew we might face some challenges, but we were prepared for anything.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage along the iconic Gibb River Road in Western Australia, an unforgettable adventure awaits.

The drive itself was an experience. The landscape was vast and awe-inspiring, with ancient rock formations and endless horizons stretching out before us. The road was rough in sections, corrugated and dusty, but our 4WD handled it with ease. We passed towering boab trees, their bulbous trunks standing sentinel against the clear blue sky. The air was hot, the sun relentless, and I was grateful for my wide-brimmed hat and plenty of sunscreen. I had forgotten insect repellent, though, and was already regretting it!

Our first major stop was Manning Gorge. The drive to Mt. Barnett Roadhouse was manageable, and from there we found the access road to Manning Gorge. I was excited to take a dip. The hike to the gorge was an adventure in itself. It started with a swim across Manning Creek, which was surprisingly refreshing. Liam helped me pull our dry bag across using the rope provided. The rest of the walk was over rocky terrain, following the trail markers. The sun beat down on us, but the anticipation of reaching the gorge kept us going. The walk was about 3 kilometers to the top of the gorge.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Manning Gorge, a hidden gem in Australia's Kimberley region, where nature and adventure await.

Finally, we arrived at Manning Gorge, and it was even more beautiful than I had imagined. Clear, deep pools of water were surrounded by towering cliffs. We jumped in, the cool water a welcome relief from the heat. We swam through several pools, clambered over rocks, and even made our way to the top of the waterfall for a panoramic view. It was the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the Kimberley's natural beauty. We even spotted some Wandjina rock art, a reminder of the rich indigenous history of this land. As we relaxed by the water, I thought about how lucky we were to be here, experiencing this incredible place together. I was a bit concerned as December is the wet season and the road can be closed due to flooding.

The Kimberley is a place that stays with you long after you've left, a reminder of the raw beauty and untamed spirit of the Australian outback.

After our refreshing swim, we made our way back to the car, tired but exhilarated. It was time for lunch, and we were both looking forward to the Gourmet Camp Oven Experience. Located near Kununurra, this unique dining experience promised a taste of the outback with a touch of gourmet flair. The drive was scenic, and we arrived just as the sun was beginning to set.


Discover authentic Australian cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Gourmet Camp Oven Experience in Kununurra.

The Gourmet Camp Oven Experience was truly unforgettable. We were greeted with a complimentary drink and seated at a communal table nestled among boab trees and rugged red cliffs. The setting was magical, with lanterns glowing and a crackling fire pit adding to the ambiance. Josh Melville, the chef and host, was incredibly welcoming. He shared stories about the locally sourced ingredients and the unique cooking methods used in camp oven cuisine. He even played live music during the main course.

The food was absolutely delicious. We started with a wild barramundi entree, followed by a mouthwatering pork belly main course. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and it was clear that Josh had a passion for showcasing the best of the Kimberley's produce. Liam and I savored every bite, enjoying the warmth of the fire and the company of our fellow travelers. We met a lovely couple from Germany who were also on a road trip through Australia. We shared stories and laughter, and it felt like we had known them for years.

As the evening drew to a close, we made one last stop at the Hoochery Distillery. Established in 1990, it was the first licensed distillery in Western Australia. We sampled their award-winning Ord River Rum, a smooth and complex spirit with hints of caramel, vanilla, and spice. Liam, being Irish, has a special appreciation for good whiskey, and he was thoroughly impressed. I preferred their liqueurs, especially the mango and passionfruit flavors. We bought a bottle of the Premium Ord River Rum as a souvenir, a taste of the Kimberley to take back home to Canmore.


Discover the rich flavors of Kununurra at Hoochery Distillery, a premier destination for handcrafted spirits and local culinary delights.

Reflecting on our first day, I felt a sense of accomplishment and excitement for what was to come. We had conquered the Gibb River Road, swum in a stunning gorge, savored a gourmet meal under the stars, and sampled some of the Kimberley's finest spirits. It was a day filled with adventure, beauty, and connection. As we drove back to our accommodation, the stars twinkled above us, and I knew that this trip was going to be something special. I am very glad I remembered to pack my camera, as I was able to capture some great shots today.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our journey along the Gibb River Road, exploring Adcock Gorge and Galvans Gorge. We'll also be stopping at Penney's Prints, a local photography and printing service, to see some of the Kimberley's stunning landscapes captured through the lens of local artists. I'm particularly excited to see Galvans Gorge, with its Aboriginal rock art and boab tree. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Tonight, though, I'm falling asleep with a smile on my face, dreaming of gorges, gourmet food, and the open road. The Kimberley, you have already stolen a piece of my heart.

I am a bit concerned I forgot to pack insect repellent and a portable solar charger. I will need to try to buy these tomorrow.