In November 2005, teams from The Amazing Race visited Perth and spent two days filming some of WA’s most popular destinations. So, for something different, I thought I’d take you on a tour of those places.
Swan Bells Tower was one of the stops. The towering glass spire of the Swan Bell Tower overlooks. The towering glass spire of the Swan Bell Tower overlooks the Swan River, with spectacular views.
A set of eighteen bells hangs in the glass and copper tower. Twelve of these bells date back to the 14th century. One of the largest musical instruments in the world, it’s the only bell tower in the world where bellringers share their heritage and visitors actually ring the bells.
First established in 1872, Kings Park and Botanic garden is set on over 1000 acres. It is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, located approx. 1.6 km’s from Perth CBD. One of the most popular tourist attractions, it caters to over six million visitors a year. The garden houses the State War Memorial and is also home to the Cenotaph, an 18 metre obelisk which commemorates all West Australians who gave their lives in the service of their country.
It is also home to Gija Jumulu, a giant Boab tree which is over 750 years old. If you ever come to Perth, Kings Park is a definite must!
Fremantle Prison was built by convicts in the 1850’s. It closed as a maximum security jail in 1991. The structure is made from limestone quarried on the site. Prison tours are regularly conducted during the day. For those who like the ‘spookier’ side of things, they also do a torchlight tour at night. The guides are absolutely brilliant and really bring the tour to life. In my opinion a ‘must do.’
There you have it. A few of the places The Amazing Race Team traveled to. For those of you who have been to Australia, what were your favourite places?
Thanks for the tour, Lee. Would love to visit some day! :)
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the pictures very much. I would enjoy seeing your country some day.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a lovely country. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteVery cool post. Oh, wouldn't I love to come visit!
ReplyDeletePatti
There was a beach we stopped at between Melbourne and Rosebud where we swam way into the ocean beside a jetty. The water was a little higher than waist deep and was crystal clear. I lost my sunglasses while swimming and only noticed when I got back to the beach. We took to the ocean in search of them and unbelievably we found them on the ocean floor.
ReplyDeleteAnother favourite visit was down the coast to see the 12 Apostles down the Great Ocean Road - that was amazing.
I also loved the little town of Sassfras with its beautiful teapot shop.