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Nature · Cervantes, Austrália Ocidental
Lake Thetis
A saline lake on the edge of Cervantes with living stromatolites, microorganism formations similar to Earth’s earliest life forms, viewed from a boardwalk.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lake Thetis
Thetis Lake is a small saline lake about 1 km from Cervantes town centre, separated from the sea by dunes some thousands of years ago. The water has about twice the salinity of the sea, a condition that allowed stromatolites to survive.
Stromatolites look like rounded rocks at the water’s edge but are formed by layers of microorganisms, cyanobacteria, which grow very slowly—only a few centimetres each century. They are relatives of the oldest known life forms, which existed more than three billion years ago and helped produce Earth’s oxygen. The lake is one of the few places in the world where living stromatolites can be seen.
A boardwalk and a trail of about 1.5 km circle the lake, with panels explaining what you are seeing. The formations are more exposed in the dry months when the water level drops.
There is no entry fee. The lake is part of Nambung National Park.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the dry months, December to April, when the water level falls and the stromatolites are more visible. Early morning with soft light.
How to get there
By car from Cervantes town centre in a few minutes via Hansen Bay Road.
Tip
Stay on the boardwalk and do not touch the stromatolites: they are fragile and grow very slowly.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lake Thetis
What are stromatolites?
They are formations created by layers of microorganisms, cyanobacteria, relatives of Earth’s earliest life forms.
Do you have to pay to see Thetis Lake?
There is no entry fee. The lake has a boardwalk and a trail.
Where is Thetis Lake located?
About 1 km from Cervantes town centre, near the Pinnacles.