The road between Walpole and Denmark initially continued dense and wooded, with turn-offs to the Giant Tingle Tree and the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk. We had had enough of woods and forests, so pushed on resolutely.

After a while it opened up to farms and wineries, and turn-offs to the south to various beaches. We did check a couple of these out on the way - specifically Green's Pool. It looked absolutely spectacular, but it was too cold to swim.

Denmark is a small town on a river, that opens out onto an inlet, that opens out onto the sea. Hence it has peaceful riverside vistas and calm bays, as well as wild surf beaches and spectacular views from lofty lookouts. Why 'Denmark'? It was actually named after a train that used to run in these parts.

The town itself is quaint and laid back, and is almost entirely made up of artists. The number of galleries in town was remarkable. And the art was wonderful - even George liked it. This whole area, being so close to the forests, woodwork and carvings abounded all over the region. But the pieces here were absolutely brilliant - elegant and powerful at the same time. We even met several of the artists, and had deep philosophical conversations with them. Overall, it reminded us of Deloraine in Tasmania.

The caravan park we stayed at ran an evening sunset cruise down the river and around the inlet, serving fish and chips which had just been caught by the local fishermen. The weather had turned and the day started grey and wet, but slowly improved by the afternoon. The cruise was a lovely relaxed affair, with the wine flowing, good company, and convivial conversations.

They also ran a bus tour which covered the nearby beaches and attractions, and went as far back towards Walpole as the Valley of the Giants. So we did get to see all this too, without having to drive it. The giant karri trees were huge and imposing. Stopped for lunch at a seafood café - fish and chips again caught by the lady's sons that morning. The tour was topped off with some stops at local businesses for tastings of ciders and mead, as well as ice cream. A perfect day.

As we were staying right on the river mouth George decided to give fishing one more try - again to no avail. But as he was waiting he made a momentous discovery - the flies were very attracted to the fish bait. So he re-invented 'fly fishing' by pulling out the swatter and 'catching' them one by one. Then, being the true engineer that he is, he found a more efficient system. He sprayed the swatter with surface spray. Now all he had to do was give them a gentle touch. It didn't kill them, and they tried to get up again but found they couldn't. Their movements would gradually shift into slow motion, then stop completely. Hours of entertainment.

Even though the weather remained somewhat bleak and overcast, the town was fun and we really enjoyed it. Had to top it off by going to the local bakery and eating a 'Danish' in Denmark. Overall Denmark was a really delightful experience.

GeorgeY's bit

Denmark is nice. Eva tried to identify the café with this amazing mocha she had photographed 12 years ago. She was sure she has found it and went to speak to the barista there. A young lad, he calculated that he would have been 6 or 7 then and that would consist a case of child labour. Everyone is friendly, a relaxed setting with a lot of beauty. Art is plentiful and genuine, quality is high with prices to match. Then there is cruising, touring, fishing and chipsing, what is not to like about Denmark? Simply stunning, even my fly swat turned stunning too.