The Watchtower Face, Arapiles

There are loads of big routes to go at on 'The Watchtower Face' of Mt Arapiles. We chose to climb the classic route 'Arachness' (Grade 9). Because it's 'off-season' for most climbers around here, it's amazing to have such a huge expanse of cliffs and barely anyone else around. It was very peaceful walking in through the gum trees and past the odd kangaroo as we made our way to the base of the climb.

The route was another belter. Four lovely pitches on great rock. There was a bit of route finding indecision half way up which caused a bit if concern. Not because it was hard, but more because on a face this big, it's best not to be wandering off route and getting lost! Afterwards, we found out that we'd done a small varient of the route, which was also highly recommended, so we'd not missed out.

Unmentioned in the guidebook, is the fact that the climb ends on top of a pinnacle. To get back to the main cliff, you have to jump across a narrow gap! It's not far to jump, but it was a long way down!

Once back on the rim of the main cliffs, the sun came out for a bit and we warmed up while enjoying some food.

The easiest way down the cliff, involved two big abseils on the main face, which gave great views of where we had just climbed, as well as the infamous 'Watchtower Crack'.

We were both still pretty hungry when we got down, so walked back through the trees to the van. There was some good blossom on one tree, that the parrots seemed to love. 

Back at the pad, we really made the most of having the luxuries of the van by cooking up some super tasty avocado, egg, salsa and pumpkin seed burritos! Served on the sofa with some freshly brewed coffee! Mmmmm!

It was great just to kick back, chat and watch the birds, while relaxing in the satisfaction of our accomplishment. Later in the afternoon, we went and checked out a few other climbs, but time was against us, so we decided it would be prudent not to set up a climb with darkness soon on its way!

Instead we drive to nearby Natimuk and went to check out it's famous cafè. It came up with the goods!

It was dark when we got to camp. It's not recommended to drive after dark as kangaroos get attracted to the headlights. We only had a few kilometres to drive on an empty road, so it was ok. It felt much later than it was, when we got to camp. Pretty soon, we were all cosied in and getting dinner on...

Watchtower Face:

- Arachness, 9***