Day 5: We opted for an easy day of sight-seeing today. First to Kangeroo Valley via some winding mountain roads. This was a tough trip for Buddy but he handled it well, although he did need to pull in occasionally to let the faster traffic go past!
We went through the valley to Fitzroy Falls. The falls are mighty impressive. The big one is right next to the visitor centre, but to see things properly there a short walk taking in several different views. Well worth it though.
The whole valley is carved into the rocks. The dense trees on the valley bottom and at the top of the cliffs were giving off steam in the rising heat of the day following overnight rain, this gave a really primeval feel to the place.
After the falls we headed back into Roo Valley, stopping at a small store we had seen on the way out, advertising the "worlds best pies", a boast I felt obliged to put to the test. I can safely say they were good pies, but I'm not sure if my Traditional Aussie Pie could be classed as worlds best.
Our pies were eaten overlooking Hampden Bridge, a timber suspension bridge (think timber deck and beams with stone towers and metal cables). I was amused by the sign stating "1 truck at a time", perhaps we should save some money by trying this with the Forth Road Bridge.
Onwards to our camp site at Jervis Bay. One side of the headland (away from the bay) the sea is choppy and everything is windswept, on the bay side the protected bay is calm and tranquil, and the water is beautifully clear. Both are worthy of a visit, and I'd be happy to stay longer.
We stopped in at Cape St George Lighthouse, a place that seems to have been jinxed. Built in the wrong place because the architect failed to consult any mariners, it made navigation more hazardous. Whilst it was open the keepers suffered a series of odd deaths. When they eventually built another, the old lighthouse still caused confusion. In the end they decided to blow it up. Now what remains is a curios tourist attraction, a pile of rubble on an exposed headland.
Apparently dolphins are a common sight as there is a resident pod in the bay, we weren't lucky enough to see any on our evening stroll, but I'm not complaining as the views are stunning, and we were accompanied by wallabies instead.
Strangely tiring this sightseeing, so an early night tonight, and we might catch the sunrise early in the morning.