Savannah Way to Normanton
Across the Gulf Country
Leaving Cobbold Gorge behind, we rolled further along the Savannah Way, chasing the red dirt road to our next stop, Croydon. The town might be small, but it’s got a great vibe and is full of history. We wandered through the excellent heritage precinct, where restored buildings whispered stories of gold rush days gone by. Later, we drove out to the town’s lake, its peaceful water doubling as Croydon’s drinking water supply. As the afternoon cooled, we joined the locals to welcome the Gulflander as it rattled into the station, a tradition that feels like stepping back in time. Dinner at the pub was one of the best we have had, highly recommended to enjoy the cooler evenings.
The next day brought one of our nerdy highlights of our Savannah Way adventure: following the Savannahlander train line all the way to Normanton. There’s something magical about seeing the railway snake through the wide-open Gulf Country. We met some lovely fellow travellers, Van About Aus, at the morning tea stop for the train, and we were invited to join the train travellers for a morning cuppa, great outback hospitality!
In Normanton, Neil ducked into the iconic Purple Pub for a cold drink with dananddaninavan while we admired the giant crocodile statue, a jaw-dropping nod to the region’s wild side, although we are a tad suspicious whether some outback dust had been added to the size of the crocodile that was alledged to have been shot in the area. Less jaw-dropping was the supermarket, where the price of chocolate left us gobsmacked!
Karumba called us on, and we spent a night by the Gulf of Carpentaria. It was a peaceful stop, restful and calm, apart from the midges, who seemed intent on making their presence felt. While in Karumba, Neil joined a Barramundi tour at the Barramundi Discovery Centre. It was a fascinating look at the life cycle of this iconic Gulf fish, from hatchery tanks to tales of wild barra fishing. Hands-on, informative, and a bit of fun, the tour added another layer to our Gulf experience.
With itchy ankles from the midges, we turned southwards the following morning, settling in for the long drive towards Cloncurry.
✨ Want to hear more about life on the Savannah Way? From quirky pubs to barra tours and sunsets over the Gulf, we’re sharing it all. Sign up to our newsletter and follow the journey.
Exploring the unbeaten paths of Australia, one adventure at a time! 🌿 Follow along as we uncover hidden gems, tackle rugged terrains, and head Off the Main Road to embrace the thrill of exploring offbeat destinations. 🚙💨
Croydon, Normanton & Karumba
Croydon – Once a bustling gold mining hub in the late 1800s, Croydon is now a peaceful Gulf town with beautifully restored heritage buildings. Its Historic Precinct offers a glimpse into the gold rush era, and the town lake is a quiet escape.
Normanton – Known for its colourful character, Normanton is the western end of the Gulflander line. Highlights include the quirky Purple Pub, the giant crocodile statue, and its role as a hub of Gulf Country life.
Karumba – Sitting on the Gulf of Carpentaria, Karumba is a fishing town famous for sunsets over the water and fresh seafood. It’s a laid-back spot to rest after long drives, though travellers should be prepared for midges.
How to Get There
Croydon is about 150 km west of Georgetown on the Savannah Way. From Croydon, it’s another 150 km west to Normanton, with Karumba a further 70 km north. All roads are sealed, making them accessible in the dry season.
Things to see and do in the area
Croydon Historic Precinct – heritage buildings with gold rush stories.
Croydon Lake – a serene spot that supplies the town’s water.
The Gulflander Train – running between Normanton and Croydon, a true outback icon.
Normanton’s Purple Pub – famous, quirky, and colourful.
Big Crocodile Statue – an unmissable landmark and photo stop.
Karumba – sunsets over the Gulf, fresh seafood, and a laid-back vibe.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May to September) is the best time to explore this stretch of the Savannah Way. Conditions are cooler, roads are more reliable, and the Gulflander runs regularly between Normanton and Croydon.
Final Reflections
Exploring Croydon, Normanton, and Karumba gave us a perfect mix of history, character, and Gulf Coast charm. From Croydon’s heritage treasures to Normanton’s quirky icons and Karumba’s sunsets, this leg stitched together everything we love about travelling Off the Main Road.
✨ Love following our adventures? Sign up for our newsletter to keep up with our latest travels across the Savannah Way and beyond.
Other updates you may like…
Whether you’re dreaming of hitting the road or already knee-deep in maps and overdue laundry, we hope these tips resonate. Here's to many more years of life off the main road.