October 2016
The Gap is a rugged granite channel, carved by the Southern Ocean waves crushing against the granite cliff forming a spectacular drop into the sea below. The huge gap can be viewed from a recently purpose-built, see-through viewing platform which stand 40 metres directly above the sea. The edge of the platform overhangs 4m out of the cliff above the ocean and those brave enough can view the power of mother nature beneath.
Welcome to The Gap & Natural Bridge, Albany.
A 116km drive from the Valley Of The Giants, Denmark.
OK, we’ll go to The Gap first.
When surging waves and ocean swell hits The Gap, powerful spray of sea water is forced up. Coupled with the thundering sound of the wave, its intimidating. We have been to several other ‘glass floor’ attractions that are much higher than 40m but The Gap’s platform in the open, with the gusty winds send chills to our bones on a sunny October evening. The Gap jumps straight to our No.1 ‘Scared, but want to try’ list. 
The viewing platform seen from a higher elevation. Credit:amazingalbany.com.au
Aerial view of the newly constructed $6.1m see-through viewing platform. Credit:amazingalbany.com.au
This $6.1 million platform and other facility upgrades was completed in April 2016. A car park 100m from the viewing platform along a paved pathway, makes The Gap easily accessible. The pathway gives safe access to the stunning views and provide protection to plants and lichens on the rock surface. The pathway and the platform is wheelchair friendly.
The overhanging platform over The Gap.
The crushing wave hits against the cliff.
‘Foam’ like wave after crushing against the cliff.
A little information regarding the The Gap & Natural Bridge.
The entire structure of the viewing platform..
Wife already at the overhanging platform over the cliff.
Exploded diagram of the construction of the viewing platform.
The bolts securing the platform structure.
Inspecting the integrity of the bolts.
Complimenting The Gap is its neighbouring attraction, the Natural Bridge. A large span of granite has eroded over the years into the sea and has formed an incredibly beautiful arch from which it gets its name. The Natural Bridge is a granite formation caused by the gradual wearing away of the granite by the great Southern Ocean that looks just like a giant rock bridge.The natural bridge formation is a reminder of the power of the ocean.
It is incredible to watch the waves roll across the ocean and crushing into the granite cliff side and rushing back under the bridge. A sealed pathway and another viewing platform with guard rails is a safe way to see this natural creation.
The Natural Bridge.
Wonder anyone interested in constructing one.
As fierce as the crushing waves at The Gap & Natural Bridge, at the far end it looks calmer.
Looking towards The Gap viewing platform from the Natural Bridge.
