North West Corner

Monday, July 29, 2013

The Far North West is dairy country and looks a lot like the Central North Island of New Zealand. We spent the day enjoying the countryside and the good weather. First thing was to climb “The Nut”, which is a strange geological formation in Stanley township. Usually the chairlift is available to avoid the steep hike to reach the plateau, but of course it is closed in winter. The view from the top was wonderful.

We stayed in Stanley Seaview Inn, motel accommodation.

We followed a recommended backcountry road route around the Tarkine region. Unfortunately a swollen river and lack of capability of our rental car shortened the trip somewhat and we had to back-track to a bridge downstream to finally make the crossing of Black River. All good fun however.

Next up was Rocky Cape National Park to see a cave where Aborigines took shelter 8,000 years ago. Also gave us a chance to see some beautiful coastline and enjoy rock hopping along the shoreline.

We finished the night in Devonport, the home of the ferry to mainland Australia.  We found the most amazing and upscale B&B ‘Inspire Boutique Apartments’; the place is pure luxury and indulgence.

View of The Nut and the township of Stanley. This is where we stayed the night.
The road across the swollen Black River. Our rental car was not going to make this crossing.
Rocky Cape National Park.
Lighthouse at Devonport and lovely setting sun.