Day 16 & 17 - Sounds of Silence at Uluru

The rock climb at Uluru

North eastern face of Uluru on the base walk

 Wow - Day 16 was a huge one. A day that will stay with us for the rest of our lives. So big in fact that we did not have time to blog - hence 2 days today. We started early - with breakfast at the base of Uluru waiting to see what would happen with the Rock climb. We were still undecided and thought we would see what happened. In the end it was taken out of our hands and decided by fate. The rock climb was closed due to strong winds so we decided to take off on the base walk. After walking around in awe of this magnificent phenomenon, when we returned the climb was still closed so we headed off to see The Olgas (Kata Tjuta), rather than wait around to see what may happen.  

Mutitjulu waterhole on the southern side of  Uluru

Rock art at Mutitjulu waterhole

After walking Walpa Gorge and to Karingana Lookout in the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta, we were in no state to tackle a rock climb so it didn't happen. We were not really disappointed, as we were happy to go with whatever happened. A day with almost 20km of walking had started to take its toll so a quick dip in the pool at the campground revived dropping spirits ready for the "Sounds of Silence" dining experience. Thanks to Fr Matthew for his advice about the dinner - it was truly remarkable and a way to make up for anniversary dinner at the Blue Heeler Pub at Kynuna.

The Olgas at sunset - featuring Homer Simpson

 Champagne and canapes while waiting for the sun to set at a sight between the Olgas and Uluru, before a three course meal of fine dining inspired by local bush ingredients - all out under the stars. Amazing food, amazing company and completed by information on constellations and viewing of Saturn through the telescope.

On the way to dinner - Tony (a worker at the Resort who was going on the dinner for the fourth time with his wife) pointed out that the Olgas look like Homer Simpson lying down. I looked and sure enough - see for yourself Homer's forehead and lips on the right hand end of the Olgas. Thanks Tony - I will never think of the Olgas the same way again and for the rest of the night that was all I could see as the sun was setting.

Uluru at sunset

 Day 17 saw us travel back to Alice Springs for a relatively quiet afternoon before we visit Hermannsburg and also Palm Valley in the  Finke Gorge national park tomorrow.

Love to all
S & E