Cobbold Gorge, QLD (YFSA)
Deep in the heart of North Queensland’s Gulf Savannah, discover ancient geological landforms which rarely make the headlines of your typical well-beaten tourist trail. Known as Queensland’s youngest gorge (a mere 10,000 years old), this remote destination is a worthy getaway for the adventurous pilot.
FACILITIES
The Forsayth airstrip is 43km away from Cobbold Gorge, made easier by the friendly team at Cobbold Village who are more than happy to assist with transport from the airstrip. Forsayth airstrip is managed by the Etheridge Shire Council. The 1200m strip is sealed and line marked. Permission to land is required, so ensure you plan ahead.
STAY
The best place to base yourself is at Cobbold Village where there is plenty of accommodation to suit your budget and taste – from bush campsites to a variety of ensuite cabins and airconditioned suites. The village is packed with modern facilities including an award-winning infinity pool with its own swim-up pool bar. Tours of Cobbold Gorge leave here daily from April to October.
EXPLORE
Cobbold Gorge is protected, so this pristine environment can only be accessed by a guided tour. You can either fly into Forsayth and start your day tour from there, or from Cobbold Village itself. Tours include a boat cruise through the gorge or enjoy views from above as you cross over their magnificent glass bottom bridge. For the more adventurous (and well-balanced) there are stand up paddleboarding tours, plus there’s great bushwalking, birdwatching and geocaching to enjoy.
EAT & DRINK
Despite its remote location, Cobbold Village has its own licensed bar and bistro overlooking the freshwater billabong and savannah grasslands. For those who prefer to do their own cooking, basic groceries are available on site with plenty of BBQs, fire pits and a small camp kitchen at your disposal.
Mt Beauty, VIC (YMBT)
Aptly named Mt Beauty is a beautiful alpine escape for those wanting to fly right to the doorstep of Victoria’s High Country. Mt Beauty Airport acts as a great base to explore the region and attracts aviators of all types from across the country. If adventure is what you are after, you have come to the right place.
FACILITIES
Mt Beauty Airport is very welcoming of visitors, with bathrooms, shelter and tea/coffee available at the terminal. The terminal is a leisurely stroll into town to explore further or grab a bite to eat. The airport is also home to the vibrant community of Mt Beauty Gliding Club.
STAY
Just a short distance from the airport, you will find plenty of options for a short break – head out bush on a farm stay, a rural cottage or an alpine retreat. Buses, taxis and private transfers are an easy way to get from place to place.
EXPLORE
No doubt one of the best ways to explore this beautiful part of the world is up in the air. Take in the magnificent views and serenity with a scenic flight over the High Country, often dusted with snow in the cooler months. During winter, there are regular transfers available to take you up Mt Hotham or Falls Creek. The warmer months are perfect for hiking, horse riding and mountain bike riding.
EAT & DRINK
You can’t go past the Mt Beauty Bakery for a lunchtime rendezvous with the pastry cabinet. For a more substantial snack and a drink, Crank Handle Brewery will offer you a great feed and great views. And for something even more high-brow, enjoy a paddock to plate experience at AnnaPurna Estate – it’s country hospitality at its absolute finest.
