Walk the Cape to Cape Track with our passionate guides by your side. Savour incredible views, great coastal accommodation, delicious catering using the best local ingredients, with transfers and logistics included – carrying only a day pack each day.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights package

Distance: 132 km, walking 13-23km over 7 days

Difficulty: Moderate

In the far south-west corner of Western Australia, a broad peninsula projects into the Indian Ocean – ancient, wild, and stunning.

Running north to south along its western edge is the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the setting of the 124km Cape to Cape Walk Track, and backdrop to the Margaret River region. Beginning at Cape Naturaliste in the north, the Cape to Cape Track meanders through windswept limestone ridges, deserted white beaches, giant granite marbles, and towering Karri forest to finish up at Cape Leeuwin in the south.The Margaret River Region is renowned internationally for stunning scenery, world-class beaches, gourmet food, and fine wines.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: PERTH PICK UP

CAPE NATURALISTE TO YALLINGUP 13.5KM

Enjoy complimentary morning pick up from the Perth Ambassador Hotel (196 Adelaide Terrace, Perth CBD) in the Cape to Cape Explorer Tours’ transfer vehicle at 8.00am sharp. We will stop one hour into the journey, giving you the opportunity to grab something to eat & drink and/or use the bathroom.

You will then head out to Cape Naturaliste to meet your guide for the day begin your first day of hiking the track.

Please note that you will need to have your water bottles filled and your pack ready for the hike.

After the hike you may have the opportunity for a quick swim at Yallingup Lagoon, then you will head straight to dinner at the historic Caves House, please bring a swimsuit and change of clothes in your day pack if required.

DAY 2: YALLINGUP TO MOSES ROCK 17.5KM

From Yallingup, pass over the granite headland at Torpedo Rock and on to the fabled Smith’s Beach. After Smith’s Beach the topography changes quickly as giant granite marbles dominate near Canal Rocks. Travel high over the ridge and past Rotary Lookout, before dropping back down on to the beach at Injidup. Ascend over the ridge again, meandering through coastal tee tree and back onto the wild southwest facing coast. Weave through stunning areas of limestone cliff and granite before walking through the stunted vegetation and granite fields of Moses Rock.

Great swimming opportunities today – pack your swimsuit!

Eat in tonight with a delicious, fresh meal from our catering team Cape to Cape Moveable Feast.

DAY 3: MOSES ROCK TO GRACETOWN 15KM

The track rises high over several large limestone headlands before flattening out on Wilyabrup Beach. A wonderfully constructed staircase then guides walkers up and onto the stunning sea cliffs that form the famous climbing buttresses of Wilyabrup Cliffs. After passing the cliffs, the track drops back down onto the beach, passing the famous, though severe, surfing breaks of Gallows and Guillotines. The coast then turns decidedly rocky as it ducks and weaves over picturesque granite boulders and finally into the pretty hamlet of Gracetown.

A great revitalising swim may be possible at the end of the day – pack your swimsuit in your day pack.

After the day’s walk we drop in for a personalised wine tour and cheese platter at a boutique winery in the Margaret River Region.

Eat in tonight with a delicious, fresh meal from our catering team Cape to Cape Moveable Feast.

DAY 4: GRACETOWN TO GNARABUP 21.5KM

Beginning at the picturesque hamlet of Gracetown, follow the low coastline to the historic settlement of Ellensbrook. From Ellensbrook, the track quickly leaves the coast and meanders through sand dunes and past Ellensbrook homestead and Meekadarabee Falls. Visit the isolated coves of Gnoocardup and the turquoise bay of Kilcarnup. Marvel at the centuries-old osprey nest in Horseshoe Bay and then take in some of the world’s finest surfing coastline at Prevelly.

A great revitalising swim may be possible at the end of the day – pack your swimsuit in your day pack.

Tonight is a free night to unwind by heading out to a local restaurant at your own expense, either on your own or with the rest of the group should you choose. We recommend The Common bistro, conveniently located a short stroll away.

DAY 5: GNARABUP TO BORANUP FOREST 22.5KM

From the limestone ridge at Prevelly you will head down into the sheltered creek line of Boodjidup Brook. Continue on and experience the white sands of Boodjidup before reaching historic Redgate Beach. Next is very likely one of the best sections of the Cape to Cape Track: the scenic coastal cliffs at Bob’s Hollow and Contos (although we may be biased as CCET have adopted and maintain this section). Enter the majestic Karri forest, home to the world’s third tallest hardwood. A longer day, but the solid track under foot and afternoon shade of the karri forest makes it all seem easy.

Eat in tonight with a delicious, fresh meal from our catering team Cape to Cape Moveable Feast.

DAY 6: BORANUP FOREST TO COSY CORNER 20.5KM

Start amongst the tall karris of Boranup Forest, home to an array of wildlife and wildflowers in season. Head south, back into the coastal heath, and down onto the stunningly beautiful Boranup Beach. 7kms of sand walking later, find the protected Hamelin Bay, home to some of the Cape’s friendliest stingrays who love a feed of freshly caught fish! Continue on past the many islands and headlands through the coastal heath and past Foul Bay lighthouse until you arrive at the stunning Cosy Corner.

This afternoon we stop to have a look at the Margaret River and eat dinner nearby at local microbrewery, The Brewhouse. Remember to pack a jacket or jumper.

DAY 7: COSY CORNER TO CAPE LEEUWIN 21.5KM

The last leg of the Cape to Cape Track faces more into the south than the rest of the coast. True wilderness with limited road access the sights are reserved for the local hooded plovers and you. Granite headlands are broken up by long sections of shoe-sucking sand. Formidable, but every step takes you closer to the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse and the moment of celebration.

After a hot shower back at your accommodation, meet at Surfpoint Resort where we share a fantastic slideshow of the last seven days. Then tuck into a celebration fish barbeque dinner with seasonal salads provided for you by our catering team.

DAY 8: DEPART FOR PERTH

Your driver will come and collect you from Surfpoint Resort at 8.30am.

Please have your luggage packed and all catering items ready for collection.

Depart for the city via the Margaret River Farmer’s Market. You will depart the farmers market at 9.30am so please order coffees first before exploring the rest of the markets. Between 1pm-2pm you will arrive in Perth where you can either be dropped at the airport or at a central CBD location.

HALF DAY OPTIONS

If you need a break from walking, you can choose to either take a whole day off, or walk a half-day where possible.

Please give us as much warning as possible if you are considering a half-day.

Our half-day options are as follows;

Day 2 (Sunday): Begin hiking with the group for the first 9km, and get picked up from Wyadup at approximately 12:30pm.

Day 4 (Tuesday): Get on the bus with the group in the morning, and get dropped off to Ellensbrook. The rest of the group will walk to meet you from Gracetown, while you relax or explore the old homestead. Then join the group for the 12.5km into your accommodation.

Day 5 (Wednesday): Relax this morning, and get picked up at 10.30am to be dropped to Redgate. Walk 13km to Boranup Forest

Day 6 (Thursday): Begin hiking with the group until Hamelin Bay where you are able to rest and wait until our driver picks you up on the way to collecting the rest of the group

PACKAGE INCLUDES

• Complimentary transfers between our central pick up points in Perth/Perth Airport and Margaret River
• 7 days fully guided walking with full emergency support: expert local guides carry first aid and communications equipment
  
• 7 nights accommodation (either at Surfpoint Resort or Margarets Beach Resort depending on your selected package)
  
• All catering with a focus on fresh and healthy food, using local produce and exploring the foodie delights of the region
  
• 1 x weekly supply box with a great variety of items for fresh and tasty daily breakfasts. Items depend on availability and seasonality, but include our in-house muesli blend and chia pudding; eggs and breakfast items such as mushrooms, spinach and cherry tomatoes; yoghurt, fresh fruit and wood-fired bread; tea and freshly roasted coffee
  
• 7 x packed lunches, including freshly prepared nutritious rolls or wraps and track snacks (lunch on final travel day is not included)
  
• 6 x evening meals, some at local restaurants and others prepared by our in-house catering company.
  
• Opportunities to visit local wineries and purchase drinks of your choice
  
• Photos taken throughout the week will be transferred via Dropbox with a link to the trip photos and final slideshow distributed to you after your walk.
  
• Cape to Cape Track completion certificate.
  
• All planning, logistical, administrative and on-ground support, including intimate knowledge of weather patterns, creek crossing sand Track conditions.
  

TRAINING & PREPARATION

The Cape to Cape Track can be a challenging walk at times due to the diversity and nature of the terrain and requires preparation. The experience ranges from extended soft sand beach slogs, through to steep (but short) climbs over loose limestone. It involves long, extended hikes that will challenge even the fittest in the group at one time or another. As such, pre-trip preparation is strongly recommended to make the event enjoyable and to reduce the risk of injury.

We recommend three key elements to your preparation:

1. Regular training

We strongly recommend training regularly at least 2 months out from the commencement of the tour. This should include some back-to-back day walks and extended walks greater than 15km. We recommend getting off footpaths and bitumen for as much as possible. Some sand walking and hill walking will really help to build the fitness need on the track.

2. Well worn-in boots

The main issue to interrupt a walk of this nature is not the fitness of the participants, but problems with feet, socks and/or shoes. We strongly recommend that all participants have very well-worn-in boots that they have trained in extensively prior to the walk. Issues often emerge even with well worn-in footwear after 7 days of back to back walking. This training should also trial any new socks etc. that may be worn during the walk. Training on a range of surfaces and topography will best test gear, shoes-and your body, prior to tackling the diversity of the Track. Having some back up footwear available including runners or hiking sandals often comes in handy on sand stretches or if blisters occur with your main pair of shoes/boots.

3. Foot care

It will be your responsibility to manage your personal foot care during the course of the tour and address any minor rubbing or ‘hotspots’ straight away so as to avoid these becoming significant obstacles to completing the walk. You should carry a range of dressings and equipment to assist you to manage minor issues before they become serious. CCET guides carry a kit for feet treatment in the case of an emergency. Prepare now and reap the rewards during your time on the Cape to Cape Track!

GEAR PACKING LIST

• Water bottles / bladder (we suggest carrying 3L/day)
• Solid, reliable walking boots (well worn-in and very comfortable, waterproof a big advantage)
• Alternative walking shoes, also well worn-in, in case of rubbing. For example, runners or comfortable sandals
• Woollen socks (suggest three pairs of quality walking socks, worn-in)
• Gators, if you choose
• Walking poles (if you feel your knees need them!)
• Lightweight clothing for walking–long pants and long-sleeved shirt recommended for sun protection
• Sunhat
• Beanie
• Fleece jacket
• Waterproof hiking jacket and pants
• Swim gear
• Small towel (microfibre)
• Personal toiletries
• Blister protection (recommend at least one pack of Compeed per person)
• Medications (include sunscreen, insect repellent, analgesics and any personal medication) Please advise CCET staff of the location of any medication you may require urgently
• Daypack: comfortable daypack to carry your water, lunch pack and personal items while walking (camera, swim gear, sunscreen etc). Prior to the tour, try to take at least a few walks wearing this pack to prepare your body.
  

ACCOMMODATION

Glamping accommodation

If you choose our glamping option you'll be staying at our hiking hub Surfpoint Resort, click the info box for detailed information on what is included. Surfpoint's private campground features spacious non-powered bell tents which include a Queen bed (or two), solar lighting, floor rugs, a seat and access to all of Surfpoint’s facilities including power for charging phones inside the complex. Situated in stunning native gardens, you'll love the peace and tranquility.

Resort accommodation upgrade

You can also choose to upgrade your accommodation to a private room at Surfpoint Resort, click the info box for more information on Surfpoint and the facilities available.

An upgrade to a private Non Ensuite Room is $300 per person for the week. Select from King or Twin bed configuration. Each room has a TV and air conditioning. This room type utilises our shared bathroom facilities located next to your room, and the kitchen and lounge area in the main facility.

An upgrade to a private Ensuite Room is $600 per person for the week. Choose from super comfortable Sealy Posture-pedic Queen/King or Twin beds to ensure a good night's sleep. Rooms have a private ensuite with shower. In your room you'll also find creature comforts such as a TV, air conditioning, fridge and tea/coffee making facilities.

On rare occasions depending on availability, you may alternatively be staying in a beach house at The Break apartments.

MASSAGES

Please contact Gabi

Price: 60 minutes - $150

Phone: 0467 331 991

Email: kitegabi@yahoo.com