After Hours

Byron Bay: A Journey of Sun and Rain

Esmée Knoops — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 02:36:05 +0000

Byron Bay, known for its stunning beaches and surf culture, is a destination that captures the hearts of travellers from around the world. Ultimately it was one of the places on my list that I wanted to visit once we moved to Australia. Recently, I was able to tick this one of the list and visited this coastal gem, although our arrival was greeted with heavy, heavy rain. But, as they say, every cloud has a silver lining, and in this case, it was the last day of our trip when the sun finally emerged, allowing us to experience Byron Bay in all its sunny glory.

One of the first spots we drove up to was the iconic lighthouse perched atop Cape Byron which is the easternmost point of the mainland of Australia. Despite the intermittent rain showers, the views from this point were stunning, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We were also lucky enough to spot many dolphins playing in the waters below who live here year round. During winter (and spring) it is also possible to watch migrating humpback whales but we were a bit early for that.

The next day at dawn, we made our way to Tallow Beach to witness the sunrise. The golden hues painting the sky as the sun peeked over the horizon made for a beautiful start to the day, while listening to the sounds of waves and watching the many surfers in the ocean. While the weather was still promising, we headed to “the pass” lookout. This is another iconic spot in Byron Bay between Wategos and Clarkes beach. Perfect for a morning of people watching.

We attempted to visit the nearby waterfall, Killen Falls, but heavy rain flooded the road, preventing us from reaching the parking lot and forcing us to turn around. Instead, we drove to Springbrook National Park in Queensland and hiked the Twin Falls loop. The hike was stunning, especially walking behind the waterfall (not to forget we also had to walk through one), and the rain and haze only added to the atmospheric beauty of the experience. It only took us about and hour and a half to complete and just before we got back to the car a pademelon popped up on the trail.

Besides the beautiful beaches, Byron Bay has many restaurants to choose from. We tried various popular spots like The General Store, Combi, Raes, and Topshop, but the best food we had was at Light Years, an Asian fusion restaurant. The mix of flavours and the lively ambiance made our dining experience there unforgettable, an absolute must-visit.

On the last day, Byron Bay treated us to a full day of sunshine, which we happily spent at Wategos Beach. We stayed until sunset, soaking in the beautiful views before grabbing our final fish and chips by the sea. Afterward, we headed to the airport to catch our flight back home.

Byron Bay’s charm is undeniable, making me hope to return and experience it again someday.

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Otway Park & The Great Ocean Road

Esmée Knoops — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:01:11 +0000

Nestled along the southern coast of Victoria lies a stunning stretch of natural beauty. Otway Park and the Great Ocean Road offer a mesmerising journey through rugged cliffs, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and iconic coastal formations. A rich experience that can be revisited numerous times, feeling fresh and diverse on each occasion.

Memorial Arch

The Memorial Arch is a symbolic gateway marking the start of the Great Ocean Road. This monumental structure honours the soldiers who served in World War I and stands as a testament to their bravery and sacrifice.

Lake Elizabeth

The mystical Lake Elizabeth is nestled in the heart of the Otway Ranges. This picturesque lake, shrouded in ancient rainforest, evokes a sense of wonder and mystery. You can even paddle across its waters, surrounded by towering trees and try catching a glimpse of the elusive resident platypus, unfortunately we have not spotted any yet.

Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls

Venturing into the Otway National Park, you’ll discover hidden gems like Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls. These enchanting waterfalls cascade gracefully amidst rainforest foliage, offering a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace. The lush surroundings and the soothing sound of water create a serene atmosphere, perfect for rejuvenation and contemplation.

Koala encounter

Amidst the tranquil beauty of Otway Park, we had a surprise encounter that made it even more special. As we navigated the winding roads, a wild Koala gracefully crossed the street in front of our car. This encounter was particularly special considering that Koalas are known for their lengthy slumbers, often sleeping for up to 20 hours a day.

Gibsons Steps and the 12 Apostles

As we approach the coastline, the landscape transforms into a dramatic spectacle of towering cliffs and rugged shoreline. Gibsons Steps beckon with their awe-inspiring rock formations and sweeping ocean views. Further along, the famous 12 Apostles emerge majestically from the tumultuous Southern Ocean, standing as timeless sentinels sculpted by nature’s artistry. Sunset at this iconic location paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a breathtaking tableau that lingers in memory forever.

Seaside Charms of Lorne and Port Campbell

Our journey wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the coastal towns of Lorne and Port Campbell. Lorne’s vibrant beachfront atmosphere, adorned with charming cafes and boutiques, invites visitors to unwind and savour the coastal lifestyle. Meanwhile, Port Campbell offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage, with its quaint harbour and fresh seafood delights.

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Mount Amos, Tasmania

Esmée Knoops — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 09:30:56 +0000

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Freycinet National Park on Tasmanias east coast lies the iconic Mt Amos hike. This trail, though short, boasts a steep ascent that I first conquered alongside my Opa back in 2019. Despite our lack of preparation back then, it remains one of our most cherished experiences. So, when the opportunity arose for my parents to visit, revisiting this trail was a must-do on our itinerary.

Ascending to the summit started of pretty easy but demanded climbing sections of rugged granite rock slabs, often requiring us to use all four limbs, especially during the descent. Yet, the panoramic reward awaiting us at the peak made it every bit worthwhile. From this vantage point, we were treated to sweeping views of Wineglass Bay, a preview of another captivating hike we embarked on in the days that followed.

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