Adventuring Through The Kimberley's Untamed Beauty

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of standing in awe, a day where the scale of nature truly sunk in. We ventured into the heart of the Kimberley, exploring places where time seems to whisper secrets through the rocks. It's hard to describe the feeling of being surrounded by such ancient beauty, but I'll do my best to paint a picture of our adventure.

Our day began with breakfast at the Kimberley Croc Motel, a little oasis in Kununurra. I always appreciate starting the day with a good meal; it sets the tone for adventure. After fueling up, Liam and I set off towards Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungle Range. The drive itself was an experience, the landscape transforming from open plains to the rugged terrain that defines this part of the Kimberley. I made sure to pack extra sunscreen, still kicking myself for forgetting the insect repellent back in Canmore.

Our first stop was Echidna Chasm. The walk to the chasm was beautiful, surrounded by towering walls. As we ventured deeper, the gorge walls rose dramatically, so narrow that in some sections, you could almost touch both sides simultaneously. The sunlight filtering through the top created the most incredible golden hues, a photographer's dream. It felt like stepping into another world, a hidden sanctuary carved by time and the elements. The towering Livistona palms clinging to the vertical sides added to the surreal atmosphere.


Explore the stunning Echidna Chasm in Purnululu National Park, a mesmerizing natural wonder perfect for photography and nature lovers alike.

    

The earth has music for those who listen.

After Echidna Chasm, we continued our exploration of the Bungle Bungles. These orange and black striped beehive domes are truly a sight to behold. It's hard to believe they remained relatively unknown to the outside world until the mid-1980s. Driving closer, the landscape transformed into the iconic Bungle Bungle Range. We parked and took a walk to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of these ancient formations. The sheer size of the domes is humbling, making you feel incredibly small in comparison. The unique banding patterns on the rocks, caused by different layers of sandstone, are a testament to the millions of years of geological activity.


Discover the breathtaking Bungle Bungles in Western Australia, where striking geological formations meet rich Indigenous culture in an unforgettable natural landscape.

For lunch, we stopped at Ivanhoe Cafe, in Detroit, Michigan? Wait, that can't be right; there is also an Ivanhoe Cafe in Kununurra, which is where we had lunch. We enjoyed a simple meal, refueling before our next adventure. I made a note to try replicating some of the flavors back in our Canmore kitchen – a little taste of the Kimberley to brighten up our winter days.


Experience delightful flavors and local charm at Ivanhoe Cafe in Kununurra - your perfect culinary pit stop!

In the evening, we headed to Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant for dinner. The atmosphere was lively, with both locals and tourists enjoying a meal and a drink. Liam was happy to catch up on some sports news on the big screens. I opted for a wood-fired pizza, while Liam went for one of their prime cut steaks. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, relaxing and reflecting on the incredible sights we'd seen.


Discover Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant: A culinary gem in Kununurra blending local flavors with lively sports entertainment.

Before heading back to the Kimberley Croc Motel, we made a quick stop at Gullivers Tavern. It was a cozy spot, filled with locals enjoying a drink and some live music. I had heard they have a great vegan menu. Liam enjoyed a local beer while I sipped on a refreshing cider. It was a great way to soak in the local atmosphere and unwind after a long day.


Experience the rich flavors of Kununurra at Gullivers Tavern, a vibrant grill and liquor destination offering delightful meals and a warm atmosphere.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible places. The Kimberley is truly a special part of the world, a place where ancient landscapes meet modern adventure. It's a reminder of the power and beauty of nature, and the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.

Tomorrow, we're off to Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park and Revolver Falls. I’m excited to see what other hidden gems the Kimberley has in store for us. I'm a bit nervous about Tunnel Creek, as I've heard it involves wading through water in a dark tunnel, but I'm sure it will be an unforgettable experience. I've packed my waterproof jacket and made sure my camera gear is well-protected. Liam is particularly excited about Revolver Falls, as he's a big fan of waterfalls. I'm looking forward to capturing some stunning shots of the cascading water against the backdrop of the rugged Kimberley landscape.

Good night from the Kimberley!

Mette