What makes a walk a bucket list contender? Well, here are the criteria according to A.I. (in blue):
A walk becomes a bucket list contender when it promises a unique, memorable, and potentially life-altering experience, often involving challenging terrain, stunning scenery, or a sense of accomplishment. Hmmm, well yes, I think we can satisfy those requirements. Let’s look at how The Southern Ocean Walk fares against these criteria:
1. Uniqueness and Scenery:
Iconic Landscapes:
Trails in remote or breathtaking locations, like the Inca Trail, Tour du Mont Blanc, or W Trek in Chile, are often high on bucket lists. But what about your own backyard right here in Australia? The saying ‘No one is a prophet in their own land’ dates back to Biblical times and is sadly still relevant today. We are truly blessed with an extraordinary diversity of landscapes across Australia as reflected by the many walks on offer including our own.
Diverse Terrain:
Hikes that traverse a variety of landscapes, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches or dense forests to alpine meadows, can be particularly appealing. We may not have alpine terrain but certainly incorporate rugged cliffs, remote secluded beaches and dense native forests as part of our itinerary. The diversity of landscapes offered over 4 days is a key feature of our signature walk.
Hidden Gems:
Trails that lead to unique viewpoints or hidden natural wonders, known only to locals, can offer a sense of adventure and discovery. Having lived in this neck of the woods for the past 30 years we’ve learnt a thing or two about some of the hidden gems and secrets nature has in store and love sharing these with those keen to discover.
2. Challenge and Achievement:
Physical Demands:
Hikes that require significant physical endurance, like multi-day treks or climbing to high altitudes, can offer a sense of accomplishment and personal growth. While we won’t be scaling Mt Kilimanjaro there are plenty of manageable challenges that will give our guests a real sense of achievement upon completion of our walks. “I wasn’t sure I could do this but I’m so glad I did” is a comment we frequently hear at the end of our walks.
3. Personal Meaning and Connection:
Resonance with Personal Goals:
Hikes that align with personal interests, like exploring a specific region or culture, or challenging a personal fitness goal, can be particularly meaningful. It is difficult for us to assess whether personal goals have been fulfilled as they are just that; personal. However, it’s fair to say that most guests have a natural curiosity, an affinity with nature and are interested in learning more about the natural world. Sharing our knowledge of the flora, fauna and history of this area is one of the great joys of taking visitors from across the world on this walk.
Memorable Experiences:
Bucket list hikes are often those that create lasting memories and stories, whether through the scenery, the challenges, or the people you meet along the way. It is interesting that A.I. lists people as an equal ingredient in creating great memories in a walking experience that is dominated by the physical world. True, the scenery will stay in people’s minds long after they’ve finished the walk (aided in no small part by wonderful photos taken along the way) but the people they’ve met, stories shared, and friendships formed are a wonderful corollary.
Shared Experiences:
Hikes that are undertaken with loved ones or in a group can foster a sense of community and create shared memories. The social dimension is a key ingredient of the success of our walks. It never ceases to amaze us how quickly bonds are formed with fellow walkers who just a few hours ago were strangers. There’s something about walking. It’s a great leveller and relaxer.
The culmination of this each evening is our 3-course wine paired dinner lovingly prepared by our resident Chef T.J. Jane & Barry are the principal co-conspirators in facilitating wonderful story telling amidst much mirth, glorious food and delicious local wines.
Summing up, if you enjoy exploring stunning landscapes in good company aided by superb local gastronomy then yes, we genuinely believe that the Southern Ocean Walk should be part of your bucket list.