Head to the Kimberley and there’s a high possibility you’ll travel the Victoria Highway to the WA/NT border at some stage. But did you know the biggest man-made lake in Oz by volume is just a turn off the highway? We’ll be the first to say it’s well worth the turn!
The drive into the lake and Lake Argyle Resort is on a good bitumen road, so no problems regardless your rig’s size and type. You might even like to slow down for this bit as the scenery along here is stunning. You could say the road beckons and encourages you to follow its path, and you can’t help but me mesmerised by the surrounding escarpment. The excitement builds as the first sign of the lake appears between a low section of the range and only gets bigger the closer you get. Not long now!
When arriving at the park resort entrance, friendly staff welcome visitors who help advise and assist you to settle in. Whether you’re staying in one of the luxury cabins overlooking the lake, one of the many shady powered sites (which includes larger bus style rigs), or simply looking for some quiet time in the unpowered bush camping, they have a solution for you. Our only suggestion would be to book ahead during peak times.
Fact File: – Well-maintained ensuite style amenity blocks are located at either end of the park, a simple camp kitchen with all that you need, and the roadways are wide enough for setting up. Park garden staff continually water the plants and grassy sites throughout the day which makes it all a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Once you’ve settled in, taking a walk around the resort will soon have you at the infinity pool which beckons every visitor. The view from here must be one of the best in Australia. The lake and surrounding range as a backdrop is spectacular at any time of day, so take that special pic and send it to all your friends, as they are sure to be green with envy!
While at the resort, it’s well-worth wandering over to the reception area and sitting down with a drink or light lunch to watch a film on how this man-made lake was made more than 50 years ago. From here, talk to the staff to learn more about the many different tours because you really need to see it up close from the water to truly appreciate its massive size. Guides will explain how the water’s collected and provide additional history, tell you all about the flora and fauna, and lots of other fun facts. Book in for a lunch tour for a sensational bbq lunch alongside one of the islands, or take the sunset tour to enjoy floating drinks and nibbles while swimming off the back of the boat and watching an incredible Kimberley sunset. Now there’s a tour with a difference! Simply remember to have your swimwear for either cruising options.
But like any resort, Lake Argyle Resort has all the big ticket items to keep you busy, but there’s also self-drives where you can explore on your own and walking trails for those that love to stride out. No matter where you go, 360 degree views make the spectacular scenery a photographer’s paradise to capture it all. Did someone mention sunsets? You can’t go past the viewing area by the infinity pool – take a picnic rug, a drink and camera, and sit back and watch the show. How those escarpment colours change as the sun begins to dip will simply take your breath away!
When you’re so relaxed having watched that beautiful sunset and would like a night off from cooking, no need to panic as the guys at the resort have you covered here as well. Their large outdoor stage and meals is somewhere to sit back and truly relax on a balmy Kimberley night under a million stars. Entertainment is also provided on selected nights, so there’s something for everyone.
The saying goes that if you drink the water from the lake that you’ll always be back, so we reckon we must have drunk a few bucketloads over the years! Lake Argyle is always a place we include on our Kimberley itinerary, and think you should include it on yours.
So we can’t wait to see your selfie in the infinity pool!
Catch you next time!
Grant & Linda
My Aussie Travel Guide