Darren's Epic Adventure with the Grand Duke!

The Beginning of an Epic Journey

In late 2023, we embarked on an unforgettable 20,000km adventure with our trusty 2018 Grand Duke camper trailer. The journey spanned 12 weeks, taking us through the stunning landscapes of South Australia, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. Our trip was filled with dirt roads, corrugations, and a few small river crossings, truly testing the durability and versatility of the Grand Duke.

From Victoria to Katherine

Our journey started in Victoria, heading north to Katherine in the Northern Territory. The smooth towing experience with the Grand Duke made the long drive enjoyable. Once in Katherine, we soaked in the thermal springs and explored the stunning Katherine Gorge.

Exploring the Kimberleys

From Katherine, we ventured west into the Kimberleys, a region known for its rugged beauty. Stops included El Questro, Kununurra, and Lake Argyle. The Grand Duke's off-road capabilities were put to the test, and it handled the challenging terrain with ease. We camped under the stars, enjoying the serene landscapes and the tranquillity of remote camping.

Purnululu National Park and Broome

Next, we headed to Purnululu National Park, home of the famous Bungle Bungles. The Grand Duke's robust design allowed us to navigate the park's rough roads comfortably. From there, we made our way to Broome, where we relaxed on Cable Beach and enjoyed the vibrant town.

The Pilbara Adventure

Our journey continued down to Port Hedland and into the Pilbara region. We explored Tom Price, Newman, Paraburdoo, and Karijini National Park. The rugged terrain and spectacular gorges of Karijini were a highlight, and the Grand Duke provided a reliable base for our adventures.

Winds and Snorkelling at Exmouth

Surviving the winds at Exmouth and Cape Range National Park was a challenge, but the Grand Duke stood firm. We snorkelled at Ningaloo Reef and Coral Bay, marveling at the vibrant marine life. The camper's off-grid capabilities were perfect for our beachside camps.

Shark Bay and Francois Peron National Park

We then visited Shark Bay and tackled the red sandy roads of Francois Peron National Park. The Grand Duke's robust construction made traversing these roads a breeze. The stunning coastline and unique wildlife of Shark Bay were unforgettable.

Coastal Beauty and Inland Heat

Our journey took us down to Kalbarri and Geraldton before heading inland through the heat of the WA goldfields. We passed through Mount Magnet, Sandstone, and Leonora, finally reaching Kalgoorlie. The Grand Duke's ample water and power storage kept us comfortable in the remote outback.

Southern WA and the Nullarbor

Heading southwest, we visited Denmark, Albany, and the beautiful beaches of Esperance and Cape Le Grand National Park. The pristine white sands and turquoise waters were a highlight. Crossing the Nullarbor in December was an adventure in itself, with the Grand Duke providing a comfortable retreat in the vast expanse.

Eyre Peninsula and Flinders Ranges

We reached the Eyre Peninsula, exploring its rugged coastline before heading to the Flinders Ranges National Park in South Australia. The dramatic landscapes and rich history of the Flinders Ranges were a fitting end to our epic journey.

The Grand Duke: A Perfect Companion

Throughout our road trip, we enjoyed wonderful station stays, national parks, caravan parks, and a few free camps. The Grand Duke’s off-road capabilities meant we could go anywhere we wanted, and its off-grid features worked perfectly for national parks and free camps. The 160L water capacity, 200amp battery power, 100L dual-zone fridge, and efficient solar setup ensured we were always well-equipped.

Conclusion

This was our best holiday ever, and the Grand Duke played a significant role in making it so. From the rugged outback to pristine beaches, the Grand Duke handled every challenge with ease, providing comfort and reliability throughout our adventure. We returned home for Christmas, filled with memories of an epic journey that will last a lifetime.