Day 3 – Bell Gorge

Another great day. Not so cold at night. Not too hot during the day – high twenties max?

Today we got up super early, around 5am – had brekky, packed our bags, and unpacked tents and beds. We left about 7.30 for our next campsite at Manning River. Had to cross a few shallow water creeks along the way as usual.

First stop was for morning tea a few hours later in the middle of nowhere.

It took us quite a few hours to get to Manning River campsite. We only arrived after 5pm, but it’s because we stopped at Bell Gorge for a short return walk to the waterfalls and swimming hole.

It was amazing! The water was cool and fresh. Quite unexpectedly. Really lovely.

The track there and back was quite rocky. In some sections we had to wade through shallow water over very slippery rocks, but we took our time, moved cautiously, and were rewarded with a great swim and magnificent views.

We had lunch on the road which Jerry, our main guide, had prepared while James lead the walk.

From there more time on the 4wd bus to get to Manning River campsite. We’d stay there for the next three nights. As usual, we stopped on the way to collect wood for the campfire.

This time we didn’t have to put up any tents. They were all there, ready to go with beds and all, waiting for us!

And what a gorgeous spot we got under this most beautiful boab tree! It felt we were living inside a children’s book for a while 😊

We had our showers then sat around the campfire chatting and drinking wine, while our guides cooked our dinner – lamb roast and veggies. Delicious! Again.

It’s now 9.46pm and I’m in bed. Should be asleep by now but I’m writing these notes instead. Well, better go now, as tomorrow will be another early rise. Brekky at 6am, ‘as usual’, for an early start. The plan is to visit Galvans and Adcock Gorges.

Goodnight. 💤