There’s something to be said for the quintessential Australian outback experience. Sitting in the saddle between blue sky and red dust whilst an unforgiving sun beats down. The bustling noises of city life left behind…
I’ve recently returned from an invigorating trip to the Kimberley. A legendary Australian outback destination and one of the raw, untouched wilderness landscapes in the world. It’s quite simply a place you need to see to truly understand the sheer scale and the memories it leaves behind.
As I experience this majestic landscape on horseback, laughter and good old country banter echoes across an open plain as we learn to read our horses. There is Reilly, who insists on chomping at his bit as we begin to get acquainted,whilst Sadjid insists on chomping on each grassy mound we pass.
Almost as varied as the horses’ personalities are the Boab trees, sporadically located on this unforgiving land and disappearing as the track gradually ascends. Ancient horizons fill the panorama; a vast and diverse ever-changing scenery. Worn and weathered ground, rust red rocks, deep ravines and the juxtaposition the deserted and fertile plains. Gorges, alpine flowers, lush springs and plunge pools sit in direct contrast to rugged rocks, dry river beds and spinifex grasses; a landscape that delivers everything.
Black wing cockatoos squawk as they soar through the clear blue sky. Brolgas visit the water holes and Red Belly Black Snakes invoke a bit of fear as they slither through the camp site. Every now and then a wind gives a bit of relief from the oppressive heat, but it is only too fleeting.
Rounding out each day is a spectacular sunset. Effervescent changing hues of heavenly light so unfamiliar to city folk. Out here there is no smog, light pollution or noise to disturb the breathtaking sight and the sunset melds into darkness as we enjoy a campfire billy tea and listen to the stories of a local legend.
The sheer size and scale of the land we call home is awe-inspiring and we think of the people that have paved the way through these same dust lined tracks.
A truly humbling experience that every Australian should undertake, the Kimberley’s is a land so raw and so beautiful you can’t help but feel electrified.
Visit http://www.hiddentrails.com.au to book your very own Kimberley advantage with Christian, Laura and team.
