After so many early mornings on this trip
it was absolute bliss to be able to have a lie in this morning!
Early this afternoon we toured Kata Tjuta (the Olgas).
Kata Tjuta consists of a number of domes (or rocks), the tallest of which is slightly higher than Uluru.
Kata Tjuta
We all walked along the Valley of Kings track to Lookout 1
where we were given the choice of continuing on to Lookout 2
or travelling 5 minutes down the road to a walk into Walpa Gorge.
Valley of Kings
Some of the people continued along the track while we took the second option.
Walpa Gorge was along a rocky path between two of the domes. What surprised us was the amount of green vegetation including some trees and a small waterhole at the far end. I guess it was fairly sheltered and when it rained would have a reasonable amount of run-off. Of course, it probably isn't green like this as it gets into summer.
Walpa Gorge
It was pleasantly cool in the gorge too as the middle of the day was quite warm.
We returned back to the coach, picked up the people who were back at Valley of Kings, and were taken to the sunset viewing area for ...... yes, champagne and nibblies again!
The colours of Kata Tjuta as the sun set were just beautiful. It went from being brown to a beautiful red/rust glow before the shadows came across and it got darker.
The colours of Kata Tjuta at sunset
As we drove back to the Resort, the setting sun left a beautiful yellow glow in the sky, simply gorgeous!!!
The following morning we packed our bags, left them at reception and went for a wander around Town Square. This square has a coffee/sandwich shop, Geckos restaurant, Ayers Wok (noodle bar), souvenier shops, a newsagent, post-office, supermarket and booking office for tours.
Native Flowers
Native Flowers
There were a number of native flowers in bloom around the resort but unfortunately I don't know what species they were.
This afternoon we bid farewell to Uluru and were on a flight to Cairns in North Queensland.
So far, our travels have seen us leave New South Wales, travel through South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory and now Queensland!
If you are still following my travels, tomorrow the scenery will be very different and will be the final leg of our adventures.
See you soon!
Judging from only two photos, I would have to say that you made the right choice in visiting the gorge! A lot of walking on this day, but incredible scenery. Love the colors of Kata Tjuta at sunset. Another "magical" moment, I would guess! I need to look at a map of Australia and map out where you have gone. My knowledge of the geography of Australia is sorely lacking! I am so glad that you are recording this for posterity...I am just a bystander, but am loving this travel documentary, Helen!
ReplyDeleteOh my just beautiful. I would love to have done this. Another thing to add to the bucket list x
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