Ponto Falls campground, south of Dubbo, was our next destination. We planned to spend a few relaxing days next to the river at this free camp. It turned out to be just what we needed: quiet, scenic, and free of the usual caravan park crowds. The fact that it was free probably explained the crowds. Still, everyone was friendly and kept to themselves.
The Macquarie River at this point is a tranquil stretch of water, reflecting the surrounding eucalyptus trees like a mirror.
We spent the morning sitting by the riverbank, enjoying the peace and quiet. A pair of Australian parrots, wings flashing with iridescent colours, darted through the air.
One with blue and red on the wings and underbelly, the other more subtle in hues of pale green, each was a marvel to observe. Their acrobatic display certainly made up for the fact that we didn't catch any fish.
Later that day, we strolled along the riverbed, the water trickling over the stones.
It's hard to describe the sheer volume of space out here. The river seemed to stretch on forever, disappearing around bends in the distance. We could have walked for miles.
As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a riot of colour.
The light streamed through the trees, casting long shadows across the water. It was the perfect end to a perfectly relaxing day. Arriving in Maryvale, New South Wales, tomorrow, we were truly rejuvenated.
