On Thursday morning we left Carnarvon Gorge and backtracked via Biloela to the coast near Gladstone. We had 2 nights 'recovering' at Agnes Waters, which allowed us a lovely day at 1770. We stayed in a cabin in the caravan park at Agnes Waters with a view to the beach, however, it was very crowded and not that relaxing.   We did meet a delightful 17year old calico rag doll cat (Vinnie) having a walk in the park in his harness.  He has been travelling with his owners for the past 7 years and seemed very relaxed (we're not sure if the van is now their home).

For those who have not been there, Agnes Waters is the bigger community, a service town on a beautiful beach that is 5 km long and uncrowded. Agnes Waters is said to be like Noosa was 20 years ago, - although we are not in agreement with this sentiment.  It is, however, changing just like Noosa did and growing rapidly.

1770 is a tiny holiday village 6kms from Agnes Waters and is on the end of a peninsula which points northwards. It has a totally different feel, reminiscent of an older Port Douglas, more rustic, not as many up-market apartments etc but with 2 great caravan parks - both full!

At the top of the peninsula lookout at 1770 there are fabulous views of the area, and many walking tracks (unfortunately we did not have not enough time to investigate them).  Looking out to sea we were lucky enough to sea whales passing, and a pod of dolphins.  They were quite away from land but still visible. 

From the western side of the peninsula, there are wonderful sunset views.  So that evening we took our beverages and snacks down to 1770 beach and enjoyed a lovely evening there, with the locals walking their dogs, visitors having a BBQ and others like us, enjoying a drink and watching the sunset.

Returning to 1770 for a longer stay will definitely be on our 'to-do' list, however, for now our short break is coming to an end.

By the time we got home (the following day), we had driven 1,832 kms, which does seem a long way to go for 2 days walking, however, we all felt it was well and truly worth while.  

We agree with Australian Geographic: "It’s hard to find a destination that contains such a comprehensive collection of Aboriginal art sites and natural wonders as the gorges and sandstone cliffs of Carnarvon Gorge National Park".