Exploring the Untamed Beauty of The Kimberley with Friends

Reflections on Kununurra: Views and Visions
Today was a day of contrasts, blending the raw, untamed beauty of the Kimberley with a deep dive into its history and heritage. It’s amazing how much perspective you can gain, both from a stunning lookout point and from the stories etched into the walls of a local museum. The vastness of this land continues to humble me, and I'm grateful for every moment I get to experience it with my friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Questro Emma Gorge Resort. The buffet was well-stocked with a variety of options, and I particularly enjoyed the fresh fruit and pastries. Fuelled up for the day, we set off to explore what Kununurra had to offer.

First on the agenda was the Five Rivers Lookout. The drive there was an experience in itself, winding up the steep, sealed road to the top of the Bastion Range. As we ascended, the anticipation grew, and nothing could have prepared us for the view that awaited us. From 330 meters above sea level, the panorama was simply breathtaking. The Cambridge Gulf sparkled in the sunlight, and the five rivers – the King, Ord, Durack, Forrest, and Pentecost – snaked their way towards it, creating a mesmerizing landscape. I could easily see why this spot is known as one of the highlights of the entire Kimberley region. We took our time soaking it all in, snapping photos, and just marveling at the sheer scale of nature. It was a perfect moment of connection with the land.


Discover the breathtaking views of five converging rivers at Five Rivers Lookout in Wyndham, a top destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Sometimes, the best way to understand a place is to see it from above, and to learn about its past.

After the lookout, we descended back into Kununurra and headed to the Ivanhoe Cafe for lunch. This place is a local favorite, and it's easy to see why. Tucked away under the shade of mango trees, the cafe offered a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. I ordered a chicken wrap, and my friends opted for the cheesecakes, salads, and sausage rolls. Everything was fresh and flavorful, made with locally grown produce from the Ord Valley. We enjoyed our meal at the outdoor seating area, savoring the tropical Kimberley vibe. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel before our next adventure. Aminata and Ibrahim would have loved the mango smoothies !


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

Next, we visited the Kununurra Museum. Run by enthusiastic volunteers from the Kununurra Historical Society, the museum tells the captivating story of the Ord Irrigation Project, the fossil record of the region, and many other aspects of the regional history. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits showcasing the Ord River Irrigation Scheme, which transformed the landscape and made this area so fertile. The museum also had an impressive collection of objects dating back as far as 1,800 million years ago ! It was incredible to see the ancient history preserved in this small town. The kids would have been amazed by the displays of Aboriginal art and artifacts. The volunteers were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing stories and insights that brought the history to life. I left with a much deeper understanding of Kununurra and the Kimberley region.


Explore Kununurra Museum: A Cultural Journey Through Local History, Art, and Nature in Western Australia.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to check out the Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant for a relaxing evening. The bar had a spacious layout with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. With several large flat-screen TVs, it was the perfect spot to catch up on the latest sports news. We enjoyed a few drinks and shared stories from our day of exploration. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on everything we had seen and learned. The Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant had gluten free and vegetarian options.


Experience local flavors and lively sports at Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant in Kununurra, a perfect retreat for tourists.

For dinner, we had a special treat planned at the Berkeley River Lodge. Getting there was an adventure in itself, as the lodge is only accessible by seaplane. The Dunes restaurant at the lodge offered an unparalleled dining experience, with stunning views of the Timor Sea and the Kimberley coastline. The menu featured a multi-course degustation, with each dish expertly crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The chef's passion for remote locations and culinary genius was evident in every bite. The sommelier paired each course with a fine selection of Australian wines, enhancing the flavors and creating a truly memorable meal. It was a luxurious and unforgettable end to a day filled with adventure and discovery.


Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking landscapes at Berkeley River Lodge – your gateway to Western Australia's natural wonders.

The weather today was typical for October in Kununurra, with sweltering temperatures reaching up to 37.7°C (99.9°F). Despite the heat, we managed to stay cool and hydrated, thanks to plenty of water and strategic breaks in the shade.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Echidna Chasm and Mount Elizabeth Station. I’ve heard that Echidna Chasm is a must-see, with its towering red rock walls and unique geological formations. Mount Elizabeth Station promises a glimpse into the pastoral history of the Kimberley. Before that though, we will be having breakfast at the Kimberley Grande Sports Bar & Restaurant.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I’m struck by the incredible diversity of the Kimberley region. From the panoramic views of Five Rivers Lookout to the rich history of Kununurra Museum and the luxurious dining experience at Berkeley River Lodge, there’s something here for everyone. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my friends, and I look forward to more adventures tomorrow.

I must remember to buy a portable phone charger and a first aid kit !

Tomorrow will be the last day of our trip, and I intend to make the most of it.