Jess is a Wanderer needed to blow off the cobwebs and start 2018 in a positive way. As a result, a 6km round trip from Tolaga Bay to Cook's Cove was in order. New Year's Day tramping. What could be better?
Well, I'm not going to lie... it was a scorching hot day and the climb up was steep. Once I'd reached the lookout, after about twenty minutes, it was clear that the rest of the climb wasn't going to be easy as people arrived (coming from the opposite direction) looking like they'd just about survived the zombie apocalypse. It wasn't pretty.
I ambled my way down the steps after the lookout and then there are two options - left to the hole in the wall or right to Cook's Cove. It's a beautiful spot and if you're wiling to wait for the crowds to disperse, you can get some great scenic pics.
Once at Cook's Cove, you can follow the cliff to the end and sit to reflect on life. And the terribly daunting climb back up to the top that awaits you. But don't think about it too much otherwise swimming back to the carpark might become more appealing and that would just be silly!
There's no easy way to put it but climbing back up was hellish. I'm one of those people who just keeps on going, one foot in front of the other, head down. Other people take regular breaks. Whatever works for you, you'll make it, it might just take a while but it's totally worth it!