Delighted that the travel restrictions had been lifted, it was time to take to the road and head west. As a Scot who has been living in Oz for nearly three years, I am always up for an adventure. Back home, I love nothing more than a hike in the Scottish Highlands, but boy was I in for a wonderful treat as we headed into the National Parks of QLD. First stop was Cania Gorge. Living in Hervey Bay meant a drive of three and a half hours to Cania.
Be prepared for hardly passing anyone at various points on this route. I might add, also be prepared for no radio signal, so get your music, podcasts etc downloaded and ready!
Cania itself is beautiful and each trail that you decide to take is an easy hike. It is currently winter out here in Qld, so although the days are warm, the nights are cold, so layer up. The local camper park is a perfect location for a couple of nights, Cania Gorge Tourist Retreat. Every afternoon the owners feed the wild birds which is a beautiful sight. Campfires are allowed which is an amazing sight in the evening under the stars, everyone has one lit!
After a couple of days at Cania it was time to hit the road again and head for Carnarvon, the Daddy of trails! Again, be prepared for being the only car on the road throughout the next 5 hours! The views are stunning so have your camera at the ready.
Beware of the cattle who are often roaming free on the quieter roads.
Upon arrival at our next camper park, Sandstone Park Campsite it was nearly dusk so watch out for the Roos that are around.
We were lucky enough to get a great spot with amazing views of the sun setting. Campfires are allowed so make sure that you bring your firewood.
The following three days were jam packed with 6-8hrs a day hiking in Carnarvon Gorge. The main trail is 19.4 km return and the side trails are of various lengths and difficulty. A Carnarvon Gorge website will help you plan your route.
Bring snacks and plenty of water and of course your camera because there are so many photo opportunities. Lunch at the top of Boolimba Bluff, the Gorge’s main lookout is unforgettable.
Hint: remember and check your camera battery before you head up the gorge because you never know when you will spot some wildlife. Stupidly, on Day Two, I put my battery on charge and forgot to put it back in my camera, hence why I had to take a blurry phone pic of this beautiful Koala.
The Amphitheatre was probably my favourite spot. As the guide states, photographs do not do it justice, it is wonderful! I could have sat there for hours just looking at the rock layers and the light pouring in from above. Looks like a loveheart <3
Make sure that you wear comfy walking boots because at some points the terrain gets a bit hard on the ankles and calves.
Overall, I’m glad we did Cania first, because it really is nothing compared to Carnarvon. It does however, get you into the hiking mode and off to a gentle start.
I found this cute little loveheart rock to keep as a reminder of my week in the National Parks.
The final morning was spent taking many photos of this family of kangaroos breakfasting outside the camper van.
I hope that you enjoyed my first post of one of my many trips around Queensland. A little tip to make you giggle, make a list of all the mistakes you make throughout your trip. Our one is hilarious and included the failure to put the camera battery in before heading out on an 8 hrs hike!
