The Australian Bucket List

Western Australia

The PinnaclesAnother geological wonder that rises out of the outback, the Pinnacles of Nambung National Park are thousands of eerie natural limestone structures against a backdrop of shifting sand dunes, thousands of years in the making.

The lunar-like Pinnacles form one of Australia's most unique and fascinating natural landscapes. Formed over millions of years, thousands of tall limestone spires rise eerily out of the yellow desert sands of Nambung National Park, just outside the coastal town of Cervantes. In under 3 hours from Perth, following the Indian Ocean Drive, you can transport yourself to another world, venturing into the Pinnacles along the scenic drive or walk trail. Or, you can let someone else take the wheel and join a coach or four-wheel drive tour from Perth or Cervantes. Stand at the lookout and ponder the natural forces of water and wind that shaped the Pinnacles from seashells over millions of years. Better still, visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre and see the Pinnacles' story revealed in interpretive displays, as well as some insights into the plants and animals that have made their home here. Tourists are advised to check for alerts and road/park closures before commencing their travel on www.emergency.wa.gov.au and https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au

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Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre

Set near one of Australia’s most fascinating areas – the Pinnacles Desert where thousands of huge limestone pillars rise from the shifting yellow sands – the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre takes you on a new dimension on your journey through Nambung National Park which runs beside the Turquoise Coast. The park has beautiful beaches, coastal dune systems, shady groves of tuart trees and low heathlands of plants that produce vibrantly coloured flowers between August and October. The centre is a stepping stone into the park with a track for walkers and an interpretive centre that encourages you to use all your senses to identify the hidden wonders and signs of life in the desert. Designed by John Nichols, project architect for Woodhead International, who also designed the award-winning Karijini Visitors Centre, the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre has been designed in response to the landscape and has a strong relationship with the site that facilitates a sense of place to those who visit it. The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is a must-see on your journey through the Turquoise Coast. Tourists are advised to check for alerts and road/park closures before commencing their travel on www.emergency.wa.gov.au and https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au

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