#ourwapark of the week: Torndirrup National Park
Torndirrup National Park occupies the rugged southern coastline of Torndirrup and Flinders peninsulas where limestone cliffs, granite headlands and white sandy beaches bear the full force of the powerful Southern Ocean. It is one of the most impressive and diverse national parks along the southern coast of Western Australia.
From towering granite cliffs to white sandy beaches, amazing views and wonderful walks, Torndirrup National Park is popular for walking, sightseeing, photography, fishing off the beach and rock climbing.
The Southern Ocean has sculpted a Natural Bridge in the coastal granites and formed The Gap, where the waves rush in and out with tremendous ferocity. The Blowholes, a crackline in the granite, ‘blows’ air and occasionally spray. The noise is quite impressive. State-of-the-art viewing structures at The Gap and the Natural Bridge provide safe and accessible views of the beautiful and dramatic coastal environment.
How to get there:
- Located about 10km south of Albany, about a 4.5 – 5 hour drive from Perth.
- Fly to Albany and then it’s a 15 minute drive to the park.
What you may not know about the park:
- Whales are frequently seen from the cliffs, particularly during winter.
- There are a number of stunning lookouts and walktrails in the park, including Sharp Point, Jimmy Newells, Stony Hill, Peak Head, Salmon Holes, and Bald Head or you can visit secluded Misery Beach.
- The park provides habitat for many reptile species. It is not unusual to find a carpet snake stretched across a road in the sun.
- A new universally accessible viewing platform at the Gap allows visitors to stand 40 metres directly above the surging seas, allowing those brave enough to view the true power of mother nature.