Exploring the East Kimberley, Katherine and the Tiwi Islands with Linda
The East Kimberley is a truly special part of Australia. If you haven’t experienced it yet, I highly recommend adding it to your travel wish list.
In June, my husband and I travelled to Kununurra, where we collected a hire car and drove to Emma Gorge for a three-night stay. A four-wheel drive is essential for this journey, as there are several river crossings to negotiate, even during the dry season.
Emma Gorge and El Questro
Emma Gorge Resort, part of El Questro Station, offers beautiful ensuite safari-style cabins suitable for both couples and families, accommodating up to four guests.
It is the perfect base from which to explore the many attractions of El Questro, including spectacular gorges, thermal springs, swimming holes and walking trails. Every day offers another incredible landscape to discover.
A Memorable Night in Kununurra
From Emma Gorge, we returned to Kununurra for one night and enjoyed the unforgettable Gourmet Camp Oven Experience.
Hosted by chef, musician and storyteller Josh, the evening featured exceptional food, drinks and entertainment under a canopy of stars. It is an experience not to be missed when visiting Kununurra.
Katherine and Nitmiluk Gorge
Our journey then continued with a scenic five-and-a-half-hour drive north to Katherine, where we explored even more stunning gorges and caught up with friends.
The Nitmiluk Gorge Dinner Cruise is an absolute highlight and well worth including in any itinerary. Katherine is also home to several outstanding Aboriginal art galleries, showcasing world-class works from the region.
Flying to the Tiwi Islands
From Katherine, we drove to Darwin before flying to the Tiwi Islands for what was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip.
We spent three days and two nights at Tiwi Island Retreat, a unique boutique beachfront property offering a true escape from the mainland. The retreat even has its own resident crocodile!
A short flight first took us to the southern tip of Bathurst Island, where we were welcomed with traditional Tiwi hospitality, including a smoking ceremony. We visited the Tiwi Design Art Centre, where we admired and purchased some beautiful artworks, and even had the opportunity to try our hand at fabric printing.
Tiwi Island Retreat
From there, we flew to Tiwi Island Retreat, located on the western side of Bathurst Island.
We were greeted by exceptional staff and treated to a gourmet dinner overlooking the ocean. The accommodation is simple yet stylish, with rooms opening directly onto a beautiful swimming pool.
The sunsets were breathtaking, and it didn’t take long for us to embrace the relaxed pace of “Tiwi time.”
Beach Breakfast, Fishing and Island Time
The following morning, we travelled by buggy to enjoy a champagne breakfast on the beach before spending a leisurely few hours walking along the shoreline and relaxing by the pool.
Some members of our group chose to join the deep-sea fishing excursion and returned with an impressive catch, which was served for dinner that evening.
Jilamara Arts & Crafts
In the afternoon, we travelled by helicopter and small aircraft to Jilamara Arts & Crafts on Melville Island, a renowned Indigenous art centre.
Meeting the artists, learning about their work and enjoying a guided tour of the museum provided a fascinating insight into Tiwi culture and traditions.
Needless to say, more artwork found its way into our luggage, and we are eagerly awaiting its arrival to take pride of place in our home.
A Few More Days Would Have Been Perfect
As often happens with wonderful destinations, two nights on the Tiwi Islands simply wasn’t enough. We all agreed that an extra night would have been perfect.
Our adventure concluded with three nights in Darwin, where we enjoyed the city’s famous markets, outdoor cinemas and relaxed tropical atmosphere before heading home.
Planning Your Own Journey
The Kimberley and Australia’s North West hold a special place in my heart.
If you’ve ever dreamed of discovering this remarkable region, I would be delighted to help you plan a journey through the East Kimberley, Katherine, the Tiwi Islands and Darwin.
