After three weeks exploring the Kimberley in Australia’s North West, I almost missed my flight home. I was at the airport in good time, had checked in and was waiting in the departure lounge when I became transfixed by a painting by a local artist. Just a simple landscape, a typical scene you’d find in the remote, rugged wilderness up there, deep red earth and vast skies. I became lost in thought remembering the billion year old rock formations, huge open spaces and the warm welcoming people I’d met. “Last call for Mr Keam” broke me out of my reverie. It wasn’t just the red dirt under my nails; Australia’s last frontier had really got under my skin. Here are some must-dos:
Set your watch to Broome time
Spend some time in this fascinating town, where the outback meets the ocean. Learn all about the rich pearling history, find your own piece of paradise along the 22km world famous Cable Beach or take a sunset ride on a camel. Don’t miss Matso’s Brewery, where you can chat to the locals over a mango or ginger beer.
Catch your own dinner
Join Indigenous Elder Brian Lee as he takes you through sacred Aboriginal land at Cape Leveque. Learn how to catch gigantic fresh mud crabs from the banks of Hunter’s Creek with just a thin metal pole and a lot of courage. There’s nothing better than cooking a freshly caught muddie on a beach BBQ whilst watching the sunset.
Get bowled over by the Bungle Bungles
Whether you’re hiking, four-wheel driving or flying over in a light aircraft, the Bungle Bungle range at Purnululu National Park is awe inspiring stuff. You can easily explore the 350 million year old beehive formations either on your own or with a guide. Squeeze through Echidna Chasm or marvel at Cathedral Gorge.
Enjoy the high life
The Kimberley Aerial Highway is a series of remote landing strips which connects some of the region’s most stunning sites, making them easier to explore. And there’s no better way to see the majesty and scale of the Kimberley than by air. From the World’s only Horizontal Waterfalls, to the sandstone sculptures of Purnululu National Park and the serenity of the enormous Lake Argyle, it’s all there as you soar 3,000ft overhead.
Visit El Questro Wilderness Park
Covering a million acres this former cattle station is one of the best places to experience the world’s last great wilderness. Take a Bush Culture and History tour, explore Emma Gorge, relax in the 30 degree waters of Zebedee Thermal Springs or just do a spot of Barramundi fishing. Tented cabins and bungalows are also available, but if you feel like treating someone special, then spend a couple of nights at The luxurious Homestead. It’ll be an experience you’ll never forget.
Visit www.tastewesternaustralia.com for more of Rich’s insider tips, recipes and video guides from Western Australia.
Image via Getty