A stone pool by the sea

We have arrived in Sydney and returned our beautiful RV this morning - after a journey of over 4,000 km along the Australian coast. I must admit that I wasn't a fan of Fiat, but after driving this comfortable and reliable Ducato camper, I have made peace with Fiat. The mobile living comes to an end, and we accept it. At some point, it's just enough and right to leave the camping life behind, even though we have enjoyed it to the fullest.

Our Australian friends accompany us to the drop-off location with their car, and afterward, we continue to the 'Royal National Park' located south of Sydney, which has a special attraction. After a 3km walk through the forest, called 'bushwalk' by the Aussies, you reach the coast, where a rock formation reveals a series of stone pools for bathing. They are round, sometimes in the shape of an 8, mostly deep enough to stand or swim in without any problems. We soon find these 'Figure 8 Pools' and jump in with our bathing suits. Under the curious gaze of other tourists, we venture into the rather cool water and enjoy the unique feeling. The pools are occasionally filled with seawater when a wave foams over the rocks onto the plain, which is a very special and fun experience. However, it is only possible at low tide, as it is dangerous there when the water rises higher and the backwash of the waves could sweep you out to sea. Pictures on the wayside remind you of this, and our hosts tell us stories of daring teenagers who had to be rescued.

On the way back, I think about how beautiful things in the world often have a dangerous aspect, like the sea here. You can admire it, enjoy it, but you must also have respect for it and stay sensible. It is very similar with deep lakes or snowy mountains in Switzerland - beautiful, alluring, and yet also dangerous.

By the way, speaking of which: Is there already snow in Switzerland? We don't have that on our radar at all. Tomorrow in Sydney, it is supposed to be 39 degrees...