As we embarked on our road trip from Norseman to Coolgardie, it felt like leaving a rainy chapter of our journey behind. With every mile, the road opened up new landscapes and possibilities. While the rain was a welcome respite in Norseman, we looked forward to what the drive would reveal.
Our journey covered 187 kilometers on the Coolgardie-Esperance Highway, a stretch known for its scenic and historical significance. This leg of our trip typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes without stops. Check out our route on Google Maps here.
The Drive
Leaving the rain-drenched Norseman behind, we encountered expansive landscapes of shrubland and sparse eucalypt forests, each turn suggesting an unfolding story. The morning mist had barely cleared, giving the highway a mystical feel.
Things We Experienced
Traveling this highway, certain highlights stood out:
- Lakes and Salt Flats: The landscape of shimmering salt flats is particularly stunning after the rain. Mother Nature’s reflection works magic here.
- Roadside Stops: We stopped for a quick break at one of the rest areas. It’s always surprising to see how these simple stops can provide a sense of peace and a moment to appreciate the open road.
- Fauna Sightings: Along our drive, spotting a few kangaroos and emus grazing by the roadside added a quintessentially Australian flavor to our journey.
Historical Coolgardie
Arriving in Coolgardie was a step into another era. Known as the “Mother of the Goldfields,” this town has an intriguing history dating back to the gold rush days. Once the third-largest town in Western Australia, today it’s a shadow of its past glory. What remains is a treasure trove of stories and artifacts captured in the Coolgardie Historical Museum.
Here are a few notables about Coolgardie:
- Founded: 1892 during a pivotal gold rush
- Peak Population: Over 15,000 in the late 1890s
- Current Population: Just over 800 residents
The town also boasts a rich architectural heritage with several registered historical sites, including the Warden’s Court building and the Railway Station, remnants of an abundant past waiting to be explored.
