After exploring Kakadu National Park, Mataranka, Bitter Springs and Daly Waters, we started to head back north to Nitmiluk gorge outside Katherine. We can’t say we really enjoyed our time in Katherine. There was certainly a strong police presence and quite a heavy atmosphere, but as the gateway to Nitmiluk, it was the perfect place to get our supplies before heading to the gorge, and the gorge is truly amazing.
It has been a long time since I have been able to get back on the open road and explore some of Australia’s unique destinations. Two teenagers, three cats, a puppy and a husband can certainly slow down a girl’s travel plans! We are already into August 2018 and there has only been a visit for a family reunion and two nights away in Sydney for a work function. Luckily there are plans afoot to change all that and the end of the year will see some fun travel adventures in different places.
Firstly, a trip to the small town of Glen Innes. At 1,062m elevation, it can be a little on the chilly side during winter, but the air is crisp and fresh and it’s easy to enjoy a glass of red wine by an open fire. The standing stones are a gorgeous place to spend some time, with a cute little café serving warming soups and stews, perfect for a winters lunch.
Growing up in Tamworth, Glen Innes was only a two hour drive away but in my 18 years of living in the region we never visited. Family holidays were usually long but fun road trips to visit the grandparents in the big city. This upcoming trip will be a lovely opportunity to spend some time exploring this cute little place so close to my home town.
Then I'm taking the father-in-law to Canberra in September. The flowers will all be in bloom and the weather will be warming up. No doubt we won't be alone as Floriade will be in full swing and we'll be among many tourists visiting our Nation’s Capital.
Then when the summer hits I will head to the Shire, Cronulla Shire that is, to see past the reality shows of bikini babes and bogans, and enjoy the beachside life, good food and cultural scene that many locals are raving about. With plenty of new live music venues, wine bars, and of course the beautiful beaches and open spaces along the coastline, it will certainly be a few days to look forward to!
Travel is something I treasure. Whether it is with a friend, with my family, or some time out on my own. Soon I will be ready again to go out and explore. But until then, I will be taking a moment to appreciate my non-travel time, on my beautiful land, with my crazy but adorable menagerie!
