OZ Top Spot #1 Gunlom, Kakadu NP, NT

Awesome isn't a strong enough word to describe the grandeur of Gunlom (part of Waterfall Creek), deep within Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory (NT).  So ... for once, I'll let the pictures do the talking!  Well ... some of it, anyway!

A highlight of our 2008 trip to the NT, Gunlom's delights don't all come easily - the steep, rocky 1km walk to the pools at the top of the waterfall probably shouldn't be done in 35 degree heat, or at the hottest time of the day! 

It's not for the fainthearted - or the unfit - either. But ... not to be outdone by the Grey Nomad grandmother with foot problems who'd told me all about how she'd managed the climb the day before, I cast those concerns aside and headed for the top. 

All I wanted to do when I reached the top was plunge into the pool to cool off - at any cost!  So, dumping my backpack into a random rocky crag, casting outer clothing aside and pushing hapless tourists out of my way, I did!! 

Once I'd recovered, I could appreciate the magnificent rewards of this fabulous spot.

The pools at the top are clear, cool and offer amazing views over the edge to the pool below the drop to the falls. 

If you're foolish enough to stand at the edge and look over, that is.  I guess this proves I did!  And how high was the drop upon which I was standing?

AAAARRRRGGGGHHHH!!!

Yep, it's pretty high!

To put you in the picture - you can see the lip where the water goes over the falls in the top photo above - and in the one above.

You can see the pool at the bottom in the middle photo - and also at the bottom of the one above.

What you can't see is the assistance from my mate without whom I'd never have considered even approaching the edge.  Steadier nerves than mine are required for such an undertaking.

But ... it's the adrenaline rush that helps make this an awe-inspiring Oz Top Spot!

Enjoy!