Tanonga Luxury Eco Villas night sky: Ron marvels at the skies of the Eyre Peninsula in the West Coast region of South Australia
Out on the road with guide Phil Porter from Wilderness Wanders and the vast panoramic sweep at the bottom end of Eyre Peninsula opens up as we explore Whalers Way. This is all part of a privately-owned wilderness sanctuary owned by landholder Bob Theakstone, who has gone to extraordinary lengths to grade a series of tracks which bring the visitor out to some stunning vantage points.
By the close of day we head back to our luxury accommodation at Tanonga in the rolling hills near Port Lincoln. As the light fades, we relax with owners Michael and Jill Coates in front of a warm fire and sample some local goodies courtesy of local restaurateur Marion Trethewey. This entire day-long experience is all about showcasing the very best the peninsula has to offer and by nightfall Phil has one more treat up his sleeve.
Phil has long held a fascination for astronomy. Before setting up his Eyre Peninsula touring company he spent several years at Arkaroola in the State's far north where the night sky offers some of the best star gazing anywhere in the world.
Having earned his stripes as an Arkaroola tour guide, Phil returned to his home patch at the bottom end of Eyre Peninsula two years ago and thought Tanonga ridge top retreat offered the ideal location to take in the southern firmament.
Phil Porter, Wilderness Wanders: "You can see all the major planets quite clearly - Saturn is a beautiful view. It's something most people never forget when they see the rings of Saturn quite clearly."
According to Phil it's his international guests who are truly struck by the brilliance of our night skies. Without ambient light from major cities this spot is perfect for showcasing to northern hemisphere guest just what we have down under.
Phil Porter, Wilderness Wanders: "The milky way is quite amazing. You can see around about 6,000 stars to the naked eye apparently on a dark night."
From Whalers Way to the Milky Way it's all part of a catered overnight stay at Tanonga. To book your stay contact Michael and Jill Coates on 0427 277 417. They'll then hook you up with Phil Porter from Wilderness Wanders for a tour of the region by day and by night. You can contact Phil direct on 8684 5001.
Tanonga Luxury Eco Villas
Near Port Lincoln
Contact 0427 277 417Published 12th September 2010
