Joanna James
No matter where your attention is drawn towards, Gladstone in the State of Queensland, Australia is a mesmeric oasis of natural wonder that would call out to your inner self in more ways than one.
The splendidly appointed Heron Island warmly welcomes both the adventurous at heart as well as the laidback soul to delight in its outstanding environs. Accessible after a 2-hour boat ride from Gladstone Marina, the isle is the prime location from where journeys to the southern Great Barrier Reef can be made. Heron Island can be enjoyed from a photographic point of view as the surrounds are literally speaking, picture-perfect to be observed and captured on your trusty cam. For the more daring, take note of the snorkelling opportunities where encounters with reef sharks and manta rays would be but a few of the sights on show.
Staying on the subject of islands in and around Gladstone, one will be presented with countless ways by which to explore the unimaginable beauty which best describes Lady Musgrave Island. In short, even a camera would not suffice to zoom in on all that the isle represents but in turn, one might don one's snorkelling gear and spend quality time moving about portions of the reef. On land, visitors can take pleasure in the isle's camping facilities which includes being lulled to sleep to scenes of shimmering stars and rolling waves.
A "must visit" when holidaying in Gladstone is Kroombit Tops National Park which on top of looking out across well-kept farmlands consists of waterfalls, gorges, creeks, scrublands and so much more. Jump behind the wheel of a robust 4 wheel-drive that is built for the terrain that you will move over. Amidst the numerous species of flora that dominate this attraction, visitors are bound to stumble upon the sight of a World War II Liberator bomber which unfortunately crashed here in 1945. Should you be approaching the Park from Loop Road and Razorbak Track respectively, then the wilds of Queensland will be your constant companion as you move past the deepest of ravines and gurgling rivers that will make you want to pause, admire and also reminisce long after one's travels conclude.
The coastal villages of Agnes Water and 1770 combine to offer travellers the "best of both worlds." Be it surfing from the various breaks that are situated in the vicinity of both areas to riding onboard an amphibious craft that will have you crossing tidal creeks and even sand boarding over the magnificent dunes of Middle Island as part of 1170 Larc Tour. Better yet, you can also choose to remain on land and simply enjoy the vistas of Chinaman's Beach while paging through a novel of your favourite author.
The city itself must not be forgotten for it holds its own in terms of providing leisure guests like yourself a chance to learn of the local culture and what makes things 'tick' in this part of the country. From inland and reef fishing escapades to venturing out to the Round Hill and Auckland lookouts for sublime scenery of the surrounding district; one will never be too far away from unearthing the locale's deep-rooted maritime connection. Even if you are staying at Oaks Grand Gladstone which is one of the hotels Gladstone QLD has to offer and found a mere 650 meters from the city centre; a visit to this charming locale must never be overlooked before taking on the greater challenges as pointed out above.
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.
