6. Gnomesville, Ferguson Valley
Don’t underestimate the power of the people, err gnomes.
What started as a light-hearted joke has now spawned the birth of Gnomesville, a grassroots tourist attraction. It is a must-visit pit stop for anyone venturing into the heart of the South West. Since the 90s, a very photogenic gnome-madic community has slowly taken over the Ferguson Road junction with over 10,000 gnomes calling this enchanted bushland setting home. The gnome population continues to grow with locals and tourists alike contributing to the evolution of the region’s modern folklore.
Make sure to BYO gnome when visiting.
7. Horizontal Falls, Broome
Do go chasing Horizontal Falls in the Kimberley as they are a natural phenomenon that needs to be seen to be believed. Even living human treasure and natural historian Sir David Attenborough has referred Australia’s only horizontal falls as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.” And yes, we would have to agree with the all-time great modern-day adventurer on this one.
To understand why is easy. In the azure waters of the Buccaneer Archipelago’s Talbot Bay, tidal currents make their way through two narrow gorges within the McLarty Range. The water is propelled into rapid-like formations that hurriedly move through twin gaps, producing horizontal waterfalls. More astonishing is that the water flows in two different directions each day due to the powerful tides in the Kimberley, making this appear to be the world’s most surreal natural washing machine (almost!).
To grab the best view of the falls, catch a scenic flight from Broome or Derby with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures. It is also possible to get close to all the action on an extended cruise or hop on a floatplane then boat to ride the rapids!
8. Wave Rock
Not all of Australia’s best waves are found along the coast. Head east from the ocean to the Wheatbelt town of Hyden to see a wave that genuinely rocks.
Wave Rock is a place where surf’s up permanently – well, kind of. This 110m inland wave has been over 2,700 million years in the making, with the multi-hued granite cliff rising over 15m across the outback scenescape. Never fear a wipeout as you can follow walking trails both above and at the base to ride the secluded desert wave at your own leisurely pace.
