Backpacking in Australia - Mar. 2009 (Part 2)

02/19/10

On my way back north from Antarctica I met Sharon in Australia for a month's vacation. We stayed at her relatives' in Sydney for a few days. It is quite nice as far as cities go. We went hiking to the Blue Mountains. Jenolan caves are worth the visit. Very impressive limestone caves.

Then we went after our main objective: the Great Ocean Walk. It is a fabulous 96 Km walk along the southern coast, west of Melbourne. The trail is well marked but offers no amenities, which is precisely the point of backpacking. One has to bring in (and out) absolutely everything except for water. Unfortunately due to poor planning we had to forgo the last two days, which are supposed to be the best ones. Still, what we saw was spectacular in every way, and some days we walked the whole day without encountering anyone. Paradise. If I was doing it again, I would schedule 14 days, not 7, that way a non-walking day can be spent at each site.

A note about boots: I had been unable to find a suitable pair of boots after the fiasco with my second pair of Vasque Sundowners in New Zealand. This time I decided to try the Zamberlan Skill GT (#10) Italian backpacking boots. The fit and finish are second to none. I was carrying a 50+ lbs pack and my feet were never an issue. Recommended! Goto page 1

(Gallery has 63 pix).