Page 52 of Australia by Audley Travel

bungle bungle range the kimberley one of the world s last unspoilt regions this time-worn land shelters great beauty in its rugged isolation pristine beaches fringe the indian ocean and through the wet season from november to april mighty rivers burst to life thundering in waterfalls and feeding pockets of lush rainforest amongst the arid desert vast open plains complex cave systems and ancient boab trees the bird and wildlife here is astonishing and the local people are friendly unpretentious and proud of their history broome derby and kununurra are the main gateways but outside of these areas the experience of the remote outback is more important than the accommodation where your choices are limited most roads in this area are unsealed and require a 4wd vehicle so to explore the area you ll have to choose between travelling alone linking up with a small convoy of vehicles led by an experienced guide or joining a small group guided tour our specialists will be able to advise which will best suit your interests itinerary and experience broome oozing with colour this exotic laid back town was once the pearling capital of the world and drew its population from a range of nations who came on the promise of pearls a flamboyant history has resulted in a uniquely multi-cultural atmosphere set on roebuck bay overlooking the indian ocean broome is famous for cable beach a band of pure white sand just the place for lazy days or a sunset camel ride from here you can take pearling tours or visit gantheaume point where the low tide uncovers ancient dinosaur footprints the savannah way crossing this vast continent from west to east this route linking the historic pearling town of broome in western australia with cairns in tropical north queensland is one of australia s greatest drives the route is easy to follow with clear signage interpretative displays and maps along the way whether you explore just a section or the entire route you will pass through an amazingly diverse and spectacular landscape of wide horizons ancient gorges rock pools salt pans hot springs and abundant wildlife these remote outback regions are just the place to experience true australian hospitality with roadhouses and outback stations providing character accommodation mcalpine house broome set amidst verdant tropical gardens this former residence of a pearling master has been beautifully restored into a small hotel with just eight guestrooms it offers a heritage setting with a wide breezy veranda polished timber floors and even the original `pearling table where master pearlers once struck many of their deals the personalised service swimming pool and welcoming atmosphere make this a perfect colonial tropical retreat camels at sunset on cable beach gantheaume point broome 52

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