I have travelled extensively and seen a lot of this world, but nothing compares to Kangaroo Island and The Southern Ocean Lodge where we are staying. A fairly good description is "floating atop a secluded cliff on a rugged stretch of coast, the property commands peerless views of the wild Southern Ocean and pristline Kangaroo Island wilderness." Words really can't convey the incredible beauty of this new luxury lodge on the southern coast of KI. Click on this link http://www.southernoceanlodge.com.au/soltour/ and take the virtual tour. It's really this fabulous.
Not only is the Lodge incredible but also the weather. Another sunny, crisp autumn day (about mid-60's) for our "Wonders of KI" tour." Kangaroo Island is about 100 miles long and 35 miles wide and is about a 30 minute flight south of Adelaide.. Our tour this morning focused on Flinders Chase National Park on the western portion of the island. First stop was a large field with numerous kangaroos feeding on the grass. We never cease to be amazed by these creatures, especially when they are hopping away on their 2 back legs. Next stop was at the Remarkable Rocks. The "wow" facture was impressive. These ancient granite boulders have been shaped by endless winds salt spray and time to form elegant sculptures of gigantic proportions -- absolutely breathtaking! I've attached a photo of me beside these structures.
By now it was time for our 2-hourly feeding so we stopped for Morning Tea and were treated to homemade Anzac Biscuits (cookies). These became popular during WWI when eggs were in short supply and the women 'kinfolk' found that these were sturdy enough to endure the long passage to the troops (ANZAC stands for Australia and New Zealand Army Corps.) They were delicious and we all got recipes from our guide who had made them.
From there we headed toLighthouse Keepers doman and Cape du Couedic on the extreme southwest tip of the island. This rugged cape combined spectacular views of the sea as well as numerous fur seals sunning themselves on the rocks and playing in the pools. I loved the view from Admiral's Rock which is shown in the photo.
Another stop provided an opportunity to view koalas in the eucalyptis trees. They're very nocturnal but a few were awake and feeding. Awake or asleep, they are adorable teddy bears. More kangaroos and exotic birds were in the same area.
Lunch was a delicious picnic in a beautiful private bush site. Our 2 guides grilled a fabulous lunch of local King George Whiting, Haloumi (local sheep cheese), grilled potates, salad and fresh fruit Of course, Kangaroo Island wines (there are numerous vineyards on the island) completed our feast.
Just as we got back to the lodge, it began to rain briefly and then a gorgeous rainbow appeared in the ocean outside our rooms. An hour later we were scheduled for a sunset walk along the cliffs by the resort. A naturalist guided the walk and gave us fascinating explanations of the various wildlife and plants along the cliffs. Below us the surf was crashing and the cliffs turned brilliant shades of orange as the sun set. One of my photos attempted to capture their beauty.
Sadly, we must leave this paradise on the Southern Ocean as we fly to Melbourne tomorrow. A full day of trade show meetings take place on Wednesday and then I depart on a VERY early flight for home on Thursday.
To say it's been a fabulous experience is an understatement. I just hope you have come to realize that Australia is a "must see" on your bucket list!
A final farewell from Kangaroo Island and Australia.
Linda
