We were up early to pack and were on the road in record time, our incentive was to beat the flies that we knew would became worse as the temperature rose. Our first stop for the day was at the scenic lookout at Madura Pass which has sweeping views across the escarpment and the Roe Plains. It really is a surprise coming from the West as you do assume it is mostly flat all the way across the Nullarbor and to suddenly come across this amazing scene before you and the steep decline down into the small Roadhouse town of Madura does throw in an element of surprise. Our next stop was at Eucla, Western Australia's most eastern town along the Eyre Highway, just 11 km from the South Australian border. Eucla is one of the only towns along the Nullarbor with views out over the Great Australian Bight and for those driving from east to west, they are treated to a terrific view as they come out of town, down onto the plains. |
At the border, 11km east of Eucla, we were not required to stop at the Western Australia / South Australia border Quarantine Check point as it is only those travelling west who are required to stop to check for fruit and vegetables. The check point for those, like us, travelling from the west to the east will be checked at the other end of the Nullarbor, at Ceduna, South Australia. So all being well, our turn to be checked for fruit and vegies will be tomorrow!
But first, the spectacular Nullarbor National Park.
Most of the park's landscape is flat, except for areas where the surface has collapsed into sinkholes, revealing large underground caverns. For some, the treeless plains are simply boring but we found it interesting,and travelling across it does provide a sense of remoteness and even serenity. I guess it all depends on one's perspective!
We did not see or view any of the caverns or caves of which where are many along this part of the country as we were more interested in the coastline for this trip. The Eyre Highway travels close to the coast, but views of the coast cannot be clearly seen from the highway except in a couple of locations so we took all the turn offs to take a look at the majestic coastline.
What a majestic place of contrasts this is! The treeless plains drop away to a sheer drop of rugged cliffs into the ocean below. Truly spectacular! We were lucky enough to spot a southern right whale cruising pass on his migratory route in the Great Southern Bight!
After seeing several lookout spots, it was time to find a spot to camp for the night as we did not have much daylight left. We found a great spot just east of the Nullarbor Roadhouse, a free camp spot at the entry of the grounds of the Head of Bight Whale Watching Centre which we found, once again, on our great little app, Wikicamps.
There was one other caravan couple already there, and later another arrived, so it was pretty quiet. After a beautiful sunset we were treated to a surprise blood moon rising over the treeless plains. It was simply breathtaking! The photos, as usual do not do it justice but it was an amazing blood orange, and over the flat treeless environment which was truly special to see!
What a great way to end a fabulous day!