3-DAY HIGHLIGHTS

SELF GUIDED

A three-day, self-guided coastal experience, hiking highlight sections of the Cape to Cape Track.

Duration: 3 days / 3 nights

Distance: 45.25km, walking approx 15km/day for 3 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 132km 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: ARRIVAL DAY

Arrive in the Margaret River region in your own transport and check into your accommodation at the beachside hamlet of Gnarabup. Today is a day to settle in and enjoy the Margaret River region. Perhaps visit a local winery or two or have a swim at nearby Gnarabup Beach. Relax and prepare for tomorrow’s hike. Enjoy a dinner out at one of Margaret River’s great restaurants (own expense)

DAY 2: MOSES ROCK TO GRACETOWN 15KM

A CCET staff member will meet you at your accommodation with your lunch and transfer you to the start point of your days hike.

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 of Wilyabrup Cliffs. After passing the cliffs, the track drops back down onto the beach, passing the famous, surfing breaks of Gallows and Guillotines. The coast then turns decidedly rocky as it weaves over picturesque granite boulders and finally into the pretty hamlet of Gracetown. Relax here and enjoy an afternoon dip before a CCET staff member will collect you with your dinner.

DAY 3: ELLENSBROOK TO PREVELLY 15.25KM

A CCET staff member will transfer you to the start point of your days hike with your lunch.

Beginning at the historic settlement of Ellensbrook, explore the first European homestead in the region and admire the giant Morton Bay Figs. From Ellensbrook, the Track quickly leaves the coast and meanders through sand dunes and past Ellensbrook homestead and Meekadarbee Falls. Visit the isolated coves of Gnoocardup and the torquoise 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. Enjoy your evening meal out at one of the delicious restaurants in the Margaret River Region,

DAY 4: REDGATE TO BORANUP FOREST 15KM

A CCET staff member will transfer you to the start point of your days hike with your lunch.

Begin at the historic Redgate Beach – a local surfing and fishing favourite. 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 leg!) Enter the majestic Karri forest, home to the world’s third tallest hardwood! The solid track under foot and afternoon shade of the karri forest make it all seem easy! A CCET staff member will collect your with your dinner.

PACKAGE INCLUDES

• 3 x days hiking on one of Australia’s most stunning coastal trails
• 3 x days emergency support and satellite communication equipment
• Comprehensive track notes and maps to keep you on the right track!
• 4 x nights’ accommodation at Surfpoint Resort (ensuite room - twin share)
• All transfers between accommodation and the Track
• 1 x tasty and locally-sourced hamper catering for all your breakfast needs for the trip. It includes cereals, yoghurt, sourdough bread, free range eggs, salad items like mushrooms, spinach and tomatoes; local cheese.
• 3 x packed lunches, including delicious, freshly prepared meat or salad roll or wrap, and a morning tea snack and fresh fruit.
• 2 x evening meals prepared by our in-house catering company to enjoy in the comfort of your accommodation
• Cape to Cape Explorer Tours daily custom Track notes, maps and a complimentary copy of Jane Scott’s Cape to Cape Track guide book.
• All planning, logistical, administrative and on-ground support, including intimate knowledge of weather patterns, creek crossings and 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 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

accommodation is allocated subject to availability

Accommodation rate is based on twin share room with ensuite