Sunrise was welcomed as it brought some warmth as well as the stunning colours on our adjacent range as shown below. We had a sleep in then by local standards, starting breakfast around 7:15 and then encouraged to get on our way to Bell’s Gorge early before the hordes descend.
Bell’s Gorge was about 35km away and arrived about 9am. We were certainly not disappointed after we walked the short distance in, in our hiking boots, and then set to and explored the gorge. Today was about swimming so after crossing the creek above the first water fall, and getting our boots wet, we arrived below at The first swimming hole and tentatively stepped in. Yes it was cool at first but in time it was simply refreshing. We then swum, carefully walked and bum-shuffled our way downstream, in swimming gear and reef shoes. We managed to navigate down two smaller subsequent waterfalls, before we needed to stop at the next being high and no way back up from the lovely pool below, other than bush bashing. No camera on this swim either so no pictures. No substantial wildlife either apart from a small goanna, various birds, and apparently a brown snake someone else saw.
Next it was lunch as provided by our lodge, and we soaked up the scenery, the humming of the waterfall, and our good fortune.
By the time we returned for the day, we were surprisingly weary from our swimming, scrambling and hiking. Our 4WD is performing very well, is robust and has been earning its keep today, with several small creek crossings made in its stride. Have not yet engaged low ratio yet, although that may be tomorrow perhaps.
Now the bar is open, tea will follow and another exciting day concludes and a new day is planned. Meanwhile, there is no mobile signal here and may not be for days, so we enjoy the simple pleasures, while being spoilt with comfortable amenities and delicious food.