Joanna James
A city in Queensland, Gladstone is nestled between Calliope and Boyne Rivers. Having to compete with attractions such as the Great Barrier Reef, it doesn't often receive the attention it deserves. A visit to Gladstone would bring you close to a plethora of attractions that are a delight to explore.
The eye-catching peak of Mount Larcom can be spotted from many places in Gladstone. The mountain was given its name by Matthew Flinders, an English navigator who led the first-ever circumnavigation in the lands of Australia. Mount Larcom is also known as the "Lion Mountain", as it also resembles a lioness and lion facing each other. Located within a driving distance from some of the best hotels in Gladstone, Mount Larcom provides a good two-hour climb, after which the climbers will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Gladstone region. It would take you around 5 hours to complete the climb and your hike would take you through patches of eucalyptus forests.
Located about 72 kilometres off the coast of Queensland, Wilson Island is located Northeast of Gladstone and is just 15 kilometres away from Heron Island. It can be described as a secluded haven, which is also a smaller coral cay (island formed by the sediments from a reef) on the Great Barrier Reef. Wilson Island is truly a nature lover's paradise with an idyllic setting of crystalline waters, soft sand beaches, fringed by lush green forests, all of which contribute to a diverse ecosystem. Those that are drawn to this island will experience a portion of the Great Barrier Reef's captivating beauty.
Heron Island is yet another coral cay that lies 89 kilometres away from the Queensland Coast. If you're not ready to go diving but simply want to explore the underwater world, then Heron Island is the best place for you – the island offers a semi-submersible, into which you can climb down and explore Heron Bonnie and a range of other excellent diving sites. When there's low tide, you can even look forward to a guided reef walk as well. The turtle season is a great time to visit this island – the green and loggerhead turtles come to nest on the island between October and March, and the young turtles hatch from their eggs between December and April.
Located within a driving distance from properties such as Oaks Grand Gladstone is Lake Awoonga, which is the main water supplier for the region. The freshwater lake is also a popular fishing destination and offers excellent conditions for wakeboarders, kayaking, and many more!
The Gladstone City itself has many a story to tell its visitors. It has rather splendid options when it comes to its fishing action – those who aren't interested in the sport itself can have their pick at the Gladstone seafood markets. Later on, you can burn those calories by walking to Auckland Hill Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
