Friday 26/2/21
Kings Canyon
This morning we did
virtually nothing before our tour to Kings Canyon was to leave from Sails resort at 12.30pm.
After speaking to fellow travelers, we realised there were other activities like aboriginal painting,
didgeridoo lessons and guided walks. We missed all that somehow.
We did however have a
nice walk, swam and generally got organised.
A few drinks at he bar
and we were ready to go.
Our bus was a 47 seater
bus but there were only 9 of us on this tour. (averages out at about 5 seats
each). Very comfy.
Tourism has been much
impacted by COVID (global pandemic) and numbers have been seriously down resulting
in job losses and downturn in business just as it has elsewhere in the tourism
industry.
However they have
increasing numbers of bookings over the next week and especially weekend so
things are improving. The good news for
us is that we were able to see things with only a few people and not had to
fight through any crowds whatsoever. It
feels like a privilege.
So onward to Kings
Canyon, we ‘travel through spectacular scenery from Ayers Rock Resort’ passing through Curtin Springs, where we stop
for a quick amenities and food break.
This is a working cattle station of 1million acres which also does
tourism as a side-line. They have a petrol station, accommodation and camping
sites. And a phone box! This is not just for show as there is little or no internet access here.
Just so you know where to go. Note the beautiful blue skyThe scenery is
different and changing. There is far more vegetation than anyone expected to
find. This is due to the rain earlier this year and it is greener now than it
has been in many many years. The ground is still red but lots of grass and
trees. We hear about the Desert Oak (really a casuarina) the Mulboa and other
trees and how they survive in the desert. Actually not a desert. It is not dry
enough so the area is termed ‘semi-arid’
rather than officially a desert.
We arrive at Kings Canyon and we are invited to accompany the driver/guide on a 1 hour walk of the canyon. In fact we can choose to wait at the entrance if we do not feel up to it.
How hard can it be? An older man using
a cane who has struggled with some walks is keen to do it. If he can, I can for God's sake.
So off we go. It is
beautiful on the way and pretty easy until we get to stones, and steps and
uneven ground and a few climbs. Hmmm not
so easy. I need to hold Paul’s hand the whole
way. yes kind of romantic but also functionally necessary. But once we arrive at the lookout,
it is worthwhile. Stunning scenery.
While walking, the start of the track for the 3 hour rim walk is pointed out.
keep this in mind as is the start of the rim walk. Vertical for 50 metres or so.... It is a very steep climb for the
first 50 metres and then not so bad but you do need good fitness to complete
this climb. Those who decide to do so will meet at 6 the next morning to do the
walk.
Completely voluntary and no need to decide just yet….
We arrive at the Kings
Canyon Resort which is much smaller than the Ayers Rock resort. The rooms are
more like cabins and I immediately think, Glamping. Shock, horror.
But once we go in, the
cabin is amazing. There is a private balcony and a separate (private) glass
walled spa bath room looking out over the ranges. Very special.
our spa
sunrise from our window. maybe a bit creepy
our sunny balcony Part of the tour is a
sunset viewing at a special sunset viewing area walking distance, so we go but only one of the 9 make it in time as we were
given the wrong time . But
still nice photos. The caravan that was to be serving drinks is shut due to COVID (global pandemic)
Then off to dinner at Smokey Joes pub nearby which looks like a real outback pub. Reminded me of the outback pub in Crocodile Dundee.
The meals are surprisingly
good.
After dinner it is time to make a decision about the rim walk. Only 3 out of the 9 of us decide they will attempt it in the morning…….
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