09 Jun A Day in Paradise by ‘Guest Blogger, Tully Dinte on her gap year’

With a name like “Paradise Tour” you’d hope it lives up to the title. I can tell you it certainly does. I had the pleasure the of experiencing a day on the LARC’s ever so popular Paradise Tour. Here is a little taste of what you might expect …

The sun was out shining, and it looked like we were in for another divine day here in Agnes Water/1770.

Now I know TECHNICALLY this next bit isn’t part of the actual tour, BUT it’s all part of the experience, right? Anyway, next to LARC headquarters is a fabulous little café where you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat before your day of epic adventures begins. Now allow me to let you on a little secret … they do the BEST vanilla slices ever. So yes, I had a piece of vanilla slice overlooking the gorgeous marina, giving me the fuel I needed for a day jam packed with activities.

Let’s continue with the tour.

First off, I just have to say that one of the best things about the LARC tours are their incredible staff. The tour guide and skipper on my tour (shout out to Sammy and Macka) were awesome. They were both so knowledgeable and full of information, and extremely accommodating to everybody on board. Without the wonderful staff here, it wouldn’t be as good as it is. They are the heart and soul of the trip and you can tell that they love their job which make the tours even more authentic.

1770 is full of open stretches of sand that are speckled with many different types of birds. Combine this stunning natural beauty with Sammy’s endless information on the wildlife, and you have something truly unique. The ride to Bustard Head was filled with great scenery, great wildlife and great commentary.

After a lunch break (yes, they provide lunch!) it was time to checkout the lighthouse. The Bustard Head Light Station has quite an unsettling and sombre history, which you will learn about from the dedicated caretakers that do month long stints to keep everything in check and to preserve the land. Some of the stories are actually very shocking, so I won’t spoil it for you, you’ll have to come find out for yourself!

We also got to climb the lighthouse – once you get to the top you are rewarded with beautiful 360 of the surrounding ocean and beaches. It really is breathtaking. A tour of the caretaker’s cottage is also in store. Filled with artefacts and items that lighthouse keepers used, it allows you to get a glimpse of what life was like all those years ago.  PLUS, more stories that will send tingles through your spine.

Did I mention there is a graveyard here as well …?

Keep a look out for more wildlife. We crossed paths with a lizard. I swear he was posing just for us.

Once everyone was all full of lighthouse knowledge and got some awesome photos, it was time to had back to our pretty pink vessel and have some much-deserved billy tea and cake.

Now, it was finally time for one of the most anticipated events of the day… SANDBOARDING. LARC once again proving how this tour is for all ages, the younger ones certainly get a real thrill from this activity. But hey, age is only a number, right?

I don’t know what gets your heart pumping more … climbing up the hill or hurtling down on a piece of foam. Either way you will have done your cardio for the day that’s for sure! Add in the magnificent views of the surrounding area, and a friendly competition to see who could slide the furthest, it’s the perfect way to finish the day. Definitely my favourite part … even though I stacked it.

On the ride home we were treated to another array of wildlife including eagles and stingrays (sometimes you can even see dolphins, so fingers crossed!), as well as a beautiful sunset.

What a day.

I’d like to thank the LARC for giving me this awesome opportunity to come experience their Paradise Tour. Their impeccable customer service mixed with top quality experiences is why so many people love these tours, and why many people come back. Whether you are by yourself, or with family and friends, there is something for everyone. But don’t take my word for it, come see for yourself! It will leave you tickled pink.