Go Cave Hunting and Lighthouse Exploring in Margaret River
If Bordeaux in France and La Rioja in Spain are like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, then Margaret River is like Coldplay – newer, fresher, with a reputation for producing world-class vintages. But a visit to this small town south of Perth promises much more than just sipping on a fine glass of red or white. We’re talking about cave hunting and lighthouse exploring here. From ethereal limestone caves that wouldn’t look out of place in a sci-fi movie to impressive lighthouses hugging rugged coastlines, here is a quick guide on how you can go beyond the wineries in Margaret River.
Hollywood loves its caves. Remember Jon Snow and Ygritte making love underground? What about those Indiana Jones flicks? There’s just something mystical and magical about these dark holes that make it great for filming. So, how do you fulfil your big screen fantasies of adventuring in a cave? The answer is simple. Visit Jewel Cave, a crystal-encrusted cavern. Here, check out fossilised remains of Tasmanian Tigers, straw stalactites, and a large stalagmite called The Karri Forest. Pro tip: look out for the beautiful flowstones called The Frozen Waterfall and the Organ Pipes.
Venture beneath the ground for an expedition unlike any other. Drop by Lake Cave, a gorgeous crystal chamber and one of the most beautiful limestone caves in Western Australia. To enter this ethereal spot, go through a sinkhole, and you’ll find a mysterious lake that reflects delicate structures protruding from the ceiling. The place is so other-worldly, you can even picture Gollum slithering out of the shadows to claim the ring. To fully appreciate this natural wonder, check out the tiny droplets that signal ever-growing crystals and the unique Suspended Table formation.
Out of all the caves you can explore in the Margaret River region, one of the most stunning is the Ngilgi Cave. Take a trip here and listen to fascinating tales of early exploration, caving by candlelight, and romantic escapades from your knowledgeable guide. Your journey will take place on foot as you traverse extensive boardwalks that lead through impressive chambers, as you uncover mysterious marvels and eye-opening calcite crystal decorations. Finally, handle some cave crystals at the touch table and see what it feels like to hold them in person.
One of the two lighthouses of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a superb spot to immerse yourself in the maritime history of the Cape region. Over here, learn about the functions of this working lighthouse. And hear tragic tales of shipwrecks and heart-wrenching stories of the harsh lives of former lighthouse keepers. Climb up the 59 steps to reach the top (don’t be intimidated because even kids will find the climb a breeze) and be blessed with stunning views of the picturesque Geographe Bay coastline and the mesmerising Indian Ocean.
