Visited: 2017.

As soon as I finished my exams, I jumped in the car and headed south. With only a few days to spare before the next semester – the downside of studying externally—I almost didn’t go. But the spontaneous solo adventure was just what I needed. Had I bailed I may not have discovered a magical part of the Cape to Cape trail, met some cool people and been refreshed. Being mid-week, the drive down was quiet and relaxing. I arrived in the afternoon and planned to watch the sunset.

Whenever I’m in down south, I have to see the sunrise or sunset. The colours can go from pastel purples to hot pink, from navy blues to deep orange. On this cloudy night, the slightest orange tones pierced through the clouds. With a hot noodle soup, camera and blanket, I felt totally zenned.

Wandering Margaret River

Setting off to Margaret River I had one goal in my mind: food. As you do. I’ve been to the Margaret River Bakery a few times over the years and it’s never disappointed. Whilst waiting for breakfast and trying not to fall asleep on the cosiest lounge chair ever, I researched hikes in the area and realised the Margaret River Visitor Centre was close by. After peeling myself off the lounge, I headed over to the centre. You can ask about local trails and they are incredibly helpful. I grabbed a big map and a $1 booklet of the short walks on the Cape To Cape trail, and I was off!

Margaret River Bakery – 89 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River

Margaret River Visitor Centre – 100 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River

I chose to explore Meekadarabee falls. The carpark is at the Ellensbrook Homestead. I wasn’t too sure if it was someone’s house or if I was in the wrong place. I jumped back in the car and headed to another carpark close by. From the lookout, you can gaze down at the crystal clear water below or look out into the endless ocean surrounded by hillside on either side. From here, you can head onto the Cape To Cape trail. Within the first 10 minutes my camera lens stopped working due to getting sand in it and my phone started playing up. So my shots are limited. I took it as a sign to just enjoy this place for myself without worrying too much about capturing it. Walking along the coastline, far away from home, completely alone was an odd feeling. In fact it was a bit eery at times.

I saw an older man approaching as I was on the lookout and being alone I thought, “oh lord – this is it “. Too much Wolfcreek? But as he came closer I realised he was the same gentleman I saw earlier at the Homestead and he had an Explore Parks WA hat on. We spoke about the area and he encouraged me to go back to the first car park and explore. He told me about different things to look for and he seemed really passionate about the area. If it wasn’t for him sharing, I wouldn’t have found this beautiful place which was the highlight of my road trip. So thank you sir!

Explore Parks commentary: “Meekadarabee Falls were known to Aboriginal people as ‘the bathing place of the moon’ and there is a fascinating legend about the moss-covered waterfall and the small cave behind it.” 

Gracetown To Meekadarabee Falls

The Story Of Meekadarribee

When you arrive at the homestead, follow the path and you’ll cross over a boardwalk. It’s a paved path for some of it before turning into gravel. As I walked along, I felt my heart pound with excitement. It was like entering a magical forest. Maybe it was the contrast of rain and dark clouds against the forest but the moody feel made it that much more mystical. A small board walk and lookout sits at the entrance of a mini cave where the Story of Meekadarribee lures you in. The thick pages and art work make you wonder about this place in more depth. I loved the start of the story.. “Once long ago, there was a young girl called Mitanne who spent her time exploring caves and strange places.”

I spent a lot of time at the cave. The reflection of light hitting the water created tiger like stripes across the surface. If you tilt your head back while on the lookout and stare into the sky, you’ll witness layers of forest trees vying for your attention. In winter, the rain trickles through and it doesn’t matter if you get soaked. The splendour of rain hitting your face while you gaze into this beautiful place is an experience in itself.

I continued on from the lookout and found another little water feature. These spots are very obvious so you shouldn’t miss them. After taking it all in, I continued on the Cape to Cape trail and walked for a while. It’s not a loop trail so I just went as far as I wanted. The volunteer said earlier to look down the banks and I’m not sure if I found exactly what he was talking about but I did find treasure. Nature treasure! On the way back I ventured off trail towards the running water. I wanted to get close to the banks so through the bush I went. It was muddy, slippery and webby but I was determined to get closer. I sat down on the edge of the bank and took it all in. The water sparkled with golds and illuminated green moss. It’s a vision I tell ya!

Let’s take a wander …

Did you feel enchanted? 

After spending the day in Margaret River and the forest, I felt so inspired and really, blessed. Being under the pump for so long from work, I did feel quite tired. Going on a road trip alone just seemed like another addition to an already busy schedule. But the way I spent it actually gave me room to breathe. And for that, I am thankful.

Final Thoughts

The Meekadarabee Falls was an easy peasy hike. I’d say the trail is perfect for filling your heart with magic, imagination and a whole lot of forest. Even though my camera failed and phone were playing up, I took it as a sign just to enjoy alone time, quietness and relaxation. What a positive and healthy way to release the stress – being dazzled by the south.

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