Hey everyone, welcome back to my blog!
From living on the Gold Coast, I have been able to continue my wild swimming and have found some magnificent waterfalls and hikes around the Gold Coast and Northern NSW areas. Wild swimming in Australia has been such a treat, as most of it has been done around Canada, England, Wales and Scotland where the ice cold water takes a while to get used to and hits differently. The water on the Gold Coast and NSW has been chilly but so refreshing and glorious. Wild swimming makes a perfect way to cool down and recover on a hot day, see some of Australia’s impressive and diverse pants, animals and wilderness and to relax on either a solo trip or with friends and family. The best time to visit any waterfall is after rainfall. So keep that in mind for your own waterfall hunting! I love swimming and being out in nature so naturally, wild swimming for me has always been a hobby that brings me so much joy- no matter how cold it is. There are also many positive benefits from wild / cold water swimming, hiking and spending a day outdoors and when there are some incredible national parks on your doorstep, it’s so important to take the opportunity to explore them. In saying that, when going out for an adventure, it is essential that you leave no trace. Take your rubbish with you and be respectful of your surroundings, environment, other people and to yourself.
My favourite waterfalls:
1. Minyon Falls
Situated in a remote area of Whian Whian, just an hour from Byron bay is Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park. Starting from the car park, there is a viewing platform which is accessible for everyone and lets you see the dramatic hundred metre drop with some brilliant views. Our ten kilometre circular hike consisted of dense rainforest, the towering falls and the pristine creeks that flow into the valley. We also passed Minyon Grass picnic area towards the end which is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy your surroundings. The falls itself is a spectacular spot for a dip and you can venture down the creek to dip in a more private place, which is what we did and it did not disappoint. As this waterfall and hike lies in a secluded part of Northern NSW, I highly recommend checking the weather before going and packing accordingly.
2. Twin Falls
Twin Falls, an unforgettable spot in Springbrook National Park. You can start the walk down at either the Tallanbana picnic area or Canyon Lookout. It’s only a short and easy hike to the falls and back, taking about forty five minutes each way. Walking through the unique landscape, you’ll pass some massive rock formations, waterfalls and wildlife as well as get some amazing views of Surfer’s Paradise and the coast down to Coolangatta. Arriving at your destination, you’re rewarded with two heavenly waterfalls cascading into the pool which you can walk around and even end up behind the falls. A tranquil and peaceful place for a swim, it’s been one of my favourites so far!
3. Cougal Cascades
A classic and well known spot at the end of Currumbin Creek Road in Currumbin Valley. From the car park, it’s a one and a half return hike up to the old historical sawmill. Walking through the picturesque wilderness of subtropical rainforest and rock strewn creek beds, you’ll see Cougal Cascades about halfway in. There’s a viewing platform to get some beautiful views. You’ll also find more hidden swimming spots, which are worth checking out and taking a dip in. Cougal Cascades is so unique and swimming in there is an experience you’ll never forget.
4. Purling Brook Falls (and Warringa Pool)
Also located in Springbrook National Park is the breathtaking Purling Brook Falls. You can start the hike from either the Main carpark or the Settlement day use area and is a four kilometre loop, with an added two kilometres to Warringa Pool and back. There are some gorgeous lookouts along the way as you hike through the thick rainforest and eucalyptus forest. There is a track that carries on to Warringa Pool which leads downstream from the base of Purling Brook Falls and is a spot I loved for wild swimming. Tucked away, Warringa Pool is a bit smaller but so soothing, serene and wonderful to enjoy.
If you are living on the Gold Coast or are travelling through, hopefully some of these spots will inspire you to go out and have your own adventures. Thanks so much for reading and I hope you’ve enjoyed this blog. If you have read and enjoyed this one or any of my other posts, I’d appreciate it if you left a comment below! I’d love to make this a blog a place for like minded people to be able to relate and share travel stories, thoughts and experiences with each other. If you have any other questions, feel free to check out my instagram, the_runawayredhead and send me a DM!
Talk soon,
The Runaway Redhead
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