Cape Leeuwin and Lake Cave

Cape Leeuwin, Western Australia’s southwestern tip, marks the meeting point of the Indian and Southern Oceans, 321 km south of Perth. Named after the Dutch ship Leeuwin In 1622, it’s part of the Margaret River Region, known for rugged cliffs, wild seas, and rich maritime history. The area, within Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, features granite outcrops, caves, and coastal trails, with diverse marine life, including whales (May–September). Aboriginal custodians, the Wardandi people, call it “Doogalup,” meaning place of fire.

The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, built in 1895 from local limestone, stands 39 meters tall, guiding ships through treacherous waters. Australia’s tallest mainland lighthouse, it’s fully operational, with its beam visible 26 nautical miles. Open for tours, visitors climb 176 steps for panoramic ocean views. The precinct includes historic keeper cottages and an interpretive centre detailing shipwrecks and maritime heritage.

Lake Cave, located in Western Australia’s Margaret River Region within Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, is a stunning limestone cave 20 km south of Margaret River and near Pemberton. Formed over millions of years, it’s one of over 100 caves in the region, renowned for its crystal-clear underground lake and intricate calcite formations. Discovered in 1867 by Fanny Bussell, it opened for tours in 1900, making it one of Australia’s first tourist caves.

Accessible via guided tours, visitors descend 350 steps into a 62-meter-deep sinkhole to explore the cave’s ethereal beauty. The permanent lake, reflecting delicate straw stalactites and massive columns, creates a mirror-like spectacle. Highlights include the “Suspended Table,” a 10-tonne calcite formation hovering above the water, one of only a few globally. LED lighting enhances the cave’s shimmering crystals, while expert guides share its geological and historical significance. The cave maintains a stable 16°C, offering a cool retreat. Above ground, the visitor centre provides educational displays, and nearby karri forests offer scenic walks. As a living cave, it requires careful preservation to protect its fragile ecosystem, making it a must-see natural wonder.