Cook

Cook, a remote outpost on the Nullarbor Plain, is a hauntingly fascinating stop on the Indian Pacific railway. This tiny settlement, once a vital refuelling and watering point for the transcontinental train, now stands as a ghost town with a handful of residents. Its stark isolation and the vast, treeless landscape create an unforgettable sense of Australian outback desolation. For travellers driving the Eyre Highway, Cook offers a surreal glimpse into the region's railway history and the sheer scale of the Nullarbor.

Highlights & What to See

• The Cook Railway Station: The historic station building, with its faded sign and platform, is the heart of the settlement. It's a poignant relic of the transcontinental railway era.
• Nullarbor Plain Views: Stand on the edge of the world's largest limestone karst landscape. The flat, arid expanse stretches to the horizon, broken only by the railway line and the occasional road train.
• Railway Water Tower: The iconic water tower, once crucial for steam locomotives, is a stark landmark against the endless sky.
• Abandoned Buildings: Wander past the derelict houses, school, and hospital – eerie remnants of a community that serviced the railway during its heyday.
• Stargazing: With virtually no light pollution, Cook offers some of the darkest skies in Australia. On a clear night, the Milky Way blazes overhead.
• Roadhouse (if open): The local roadhouse sometimes provides basic fuel and supplies, but check ahead – services are unreliable.

Suggested Time to Spend

Cook is a quick stop, best seen in 30 minutes to an hour. Most travellers pause here to stretch their legs, photograph the station, and absorb the eerie quiet. If you're driving the Eyre Highway, it's a natural break between Ceduna and Norseman. Plan to arrive during daylight, as the town is unlit and services are minimal. Overnight stays are possible only if you're self-contained, but the isolation is profound.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nullarbor National Park: Just west of Cook, this park protects the dramatic Bunda Cliffs, which plunge into the Great Australian Bight – a must-see for coastal views.
• Eucla: Further west, Eucla has a historic telegraph station and the striking Eucla Pass sand dunes.
• Ceduna: To the east, this coastal town is the last major stop before the Nullarbor crossing, with good supplies and seafood.
• Border Village: The SA/WA border stop has a quirky roadhouse and the famous Nullarbor Links golf hole.
• Madura Pass: West of Eucla, this scenic lookout offers panoramic views over the Roe Plains.

Please check official sources for current details.