8-DAY GUIDED HIGHLIGHTS

OF THE CAPE TO CAPE TRACK

Unlike the 132km End-to-End option, you’ll hike half the distance, ​still see the highlight sections of the Track, but have time for ​other activities like visiting a cave, kayaking on the Margaret ​River, visiting local producers, and doing a couple of our favourite ​short walks that aren’t part of the Cape to Cape Track.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights package

Distance: Walking 6km - 15km per day, 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 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: PERTH PICK UP

CAPE NATURALISTE TO SUGARLOAF ROCK 3.7KM

& MEELUP LOOKOUT LOOP 2.5KM

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 ​exploring the stunning Capes Region.

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

An easy scenic start to the journey, hike one way from the lighthouse to sugarloaf rock. Then, your ​guide will transfer you to the famous Meelup Beach for a short loop walk with beautiful vistas ​followed by a swim in the calm waters of Geographe Bay. Dinner will be provided at a local brewpub ​on route back to your accommodation in Gnarabup - please bring a swimsuit and change of clothes ​in your day pack if required.

DAY 2: YALLINGUP TO INJIDUP 9.5KM

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. Weave through stunning areas of limestone cliff and granite and enjoy a stunning ​swim location at Injidup Beach. Stop in at local producer on route back to your accommodation this ​afternoon.

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: ELLENSBROOK TO GNARABUP 15KM

Beginning at the historic settlement of 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: REDGATE TO BORANUP VIEWPOINT 13KM

Departing from historic and postcard worthy 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 beautiful day, 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: RIVER KAYAKING, CAVE TOUR, RIVER LOOP WALK

Enjoy a slightly later start this morning as your adventure begins at nearby Prevelly rivermouth, on the ​majestic waters of the Margaret River / Wooditjup Bilya. Kayak upstream venturing past culturally ​significant limestone cliffs and the ruins of the Bussell’s Wallcliffe House. A high chance of an osprey ​encounter, followed by a walking tour of Mammoth Cave, a historically significant limestone cave ​where ancient fauna skeletal remains were discovered, including MEGAFAUNA! Finish up with a lovely ​Loop Walk around the karri stands on the river, and sampling local beverages and foods within the ​well renown atmosphere and setting of Margaret River’s Brewhouse.

DAY 7: FLINDERS BAY TO CAPE LEEUWIN 6KM & LIGHTHOUSE

INTERPRETIVE CENTER

Start the morning with a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Hamelin Bay where you may be lucky ​enough to encounter one of the resident stingrays. Then journey further south to Augusta to enjoy a ​coffee at a local cafe before setting off on today’s walk. Discover the landing point of Mathew ​Flinders in his 1801 expedition, revel amongst the whaling and sealing history and almost impossible ​feats of the first and group settlers. Finish up at Cape Leeuwin, the most south-westerly point of ​Australia, where you can marvel at the 19th century naval navigation and history of Australian ​mainlands tallest lighthouse. After a hot shower back at your accommodation, we will share a ​fantastic slideshow of the last seven days and 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.

PACKAGE INCLUDES

• Complimentary transfers between our central pick up points in Perth/Perth Airport and Margaret River
• 7 days fully guided walking and activities with full emergency support: expert local guides carry first aid and communications equipment
  
• 7 nights accommodation in the coastal hamlet of Gnarabup
  
• 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 producers to purchase goods of your choice (at your own cost)
  
• 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 adventure
  
• 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.

MASSAGES

Please contact Gabi

Price: 60 minutes - $150

Phone: 0467 331 991

Email: kitegabi@yahoo.com