Eventually we reached the famed desert pinnacles in Nambung National Park. These limestone structures stick up out of the sand for miles around...some are just a few inches high while others rise to a height of several feet, some are rounded and some are jagged. How they were formed is unknown although processes of fossilisation and erosion certainly play their part.
A little closer to the sea was our afternoon stop...Stromatolite Lake. Stromatolites are some of the earth's oldest living organisms and are microbacterial "clumps" that grow at the edge of the salty water. Add in the fact that we spotted a small bobtail lizard and also admired the views of the bizarre looking grass trees, it was definitely a day full of nature moments.
Tuesday was our last day with Adrian and also our last day in Australia, so what better way to sign off than a beer and wine tasting tour along the Swan Valley. First stop was the Feral brewery where we all shared the tasting boards containing a total of 12 local brews ranging from light pale ales through to dark stouts. Then it was on to Sittella winery to sample a range of award winning whites, reds and roses. Purchases were made here!
Lunch was at the Homestead Brewey, an estate which also houses Sandleford winery, and then we managed a stop at the Margaret River Chocolate Company which stocks both chocolates and wine. One more stop was planned at Mash brewery but unfortunately last orders had just been called as we arrived. With hindsight, it was probably for the best!
So, our few days back in Perth had been extremely busy and it was fabulous being able to catch up with family. A very big thankyou to Adrian and Rohan for their generous hospitality, for showing us around their "neighbourhood", and for supplying the airport taxi service!
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