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| The view from inside the cave at Natural Bridge |
The Gold Coast of Australia is famous for many things
including seemingly endless stretches of golden beaches, theme parks galore,
second to none fishing and boating, non-stop nightlife and lavish hotels. What
many people don’t know is that the Gold Coast region is home to amazing
sub-tropical rainforests and beautiful mountainous regions and valleys where
you can escape the crowds at the beach or theme park and still enjoy a great
day outdoors.
Our three nephews, ages 2.5, 7 and 8, and their mom were
visiting so we needed an activity the whole family could enjoy. Extreme
trekking was out and we had already done enough shopping for one weelks time. We looked through the tourist magazines and
decided to visit a place called Natural Bridge in the Springbrook National
Park. Located about an hours’ drive from Surfers Paradise is where you’ll find
this family friendly outdoor paradise. The drive itself is almost worth the
trip, you’ll go through some amazing countryside, truly indicative of country
Australia, where small towns and large farms dominate the landscape.
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| Pamela proves you're never too old for rope swings |
Pulling into the empty parking lot on a weekday afternoon we
were soon off on the well signposted one kilometer track. Along the way we
marveled at the sheer size of the magnificent trees and varied collection of
flora. This area is part of the Gondwana Rainforest World Heritage Area and we
certainly saw why as we were soon immersed in the rainforest. Along the way
there are many signs detailing different plant species of the rainforest. Also
along the way are the many Tarzan type vines which were great fun for kids both
young and old. The track drops down into a small valley, crosses a creek via a
wooden bridge and then climbs back up to the actual Natural Bridge formation.
Quickly scurrying ahead I saw my first glimpse of the
Natural Bridge formation and was very impressed. The photos I had seen didn’t
really do this cave with a waterfall coming down through the middle of it
justice. By themselves the cave would be awesome and the waterfall awesome, put
them together and you’ve got a sight to see. The large hole in the cave from
the waterfall erosion allows light to penetrate the cave giving you a surreal
sense of awe experienced at any great natural landscape.
Once at the formation you can follow the path deep into the
cave for great photo opportunities, just beware that you might get a bit wet
and the path could be a bit slippery. While in the cave you’ll probably notice
a pungent smell, yes, that’s bat poop. Way past the trail end at the back of
the cave are quite a few bats, but it’s a cave and that’s where bats live, we
didn’t have any issues with the bats except for the smell. If visiting later in
the afternoon then you might want to stick around for dark as then you’ll have
the opportunity to see the cave’s resident glow worms. Other attractions in the
Gold Coast will charge you to see their glow worms, here you can see them for
free and stay as long as you’d like. Just remember to bring a torch with spare
batteries for the walk back to your car if you’re planning to stay into the
night.
We loved the Natural Bridge and already looking forward to
going back. It’s a great place for individuals or those travelling with
families to visit, not to mention it’s a great value, with the only expense
being your cost for petrol to get there. Other attractions in the area will
charge you for a similar rainforest experience, here it’s free. We made the
mistake of visiting a park that charges for their rainforest walk before we
visited Natural Bridge. We found the Natural Bridge trail just as well
signposted with educational information and an equally good experience, plus
you have the added benefit of the cave and waterfall. Additionally, any other
place in the area will charge you to enter their man-made cave to see glow
worms, here it’s free.
Here are a few tips if you’re planning a visit to Natural
Bridge:
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No matter what time of year it’s always a good
idea to bring a jacket or jumper. It’s always several degrees colder in the
Hinterland, especially under the canopy of the rainforest.
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Bring a torch/flashlight with spare batteries if
you’re planning to stick around until dark to check out the glow worms.
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There’s not much in the way of food nearby so
it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks, or better yet plan for a picnic.
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There are drop toilets at the trail head but
nothing along the trail itself.
More info on the Natural Bridge
including directions can be found here: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/things-to-see-and-do/natural-bridge-rainforest-circuit/index.cfm
Take a look at some of our photos from our day at Natural Bridge:
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| There are plenty of trees to hide-out in. |
Cheers for Now –
Pamela and Dave
