Today we had rain, not like the drizzle we have had the last couple of days, but heavy rain. Our first stop was Queenstown with the notorious Mt Lyell Mine that devastated the vegetation around the town. The town has many large old hotels as you would expect after the discovery of gold in the late 1890's. We finally found a petrol station (this is our greatest challenge) and topped up before crossing the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. The rain eased when we reached the Nelson Falls. It was a 20 minute return walk through typical cool rainforest local to this region. The river and the Falls were beautiful and well worth the stop. By the time we reached Derwent Bridge it was coming down cats and dogs. We decided to go to the hotel for lunch before travelling the 5 kms to Lake St Clair at the southern end of the Cradle Mountain Lake St. Clair National Park. Such a shame about the rain, but I shuffled off under the umbrella and took some photos while a Edie sat in the information centre beside a roaring fire. Must say I was pretty wet when I returned. Luckily rain doesn't detract from the scenery when photographed. Last stop was at the "Wall". Started over 10 years ago it's a work in progress - a 100 metre long Huon pine sculpture depicting aspects of Tasmania. It was fantastic but I can't show you any of it as photography was strictly prohibited.
At 4.00 we reached Bronte Park our stop for tonight. I think the accommodation was originally for workers at a hydro electric project. Big bar and dining rooms but small functional rooms. OK for one night.We are not hungry after our late lunch so plan to have an early night and an early start tomorrow morning heading for Hobart.
Glenda
2015-03-20
Glad to hear from you. I had mum here today & tried to phone you tried both mobiles. Shame about the rain but pics still look good all OK here. Brent back safe
Chris
2015-03-20
Looks lovely apart from the rain- babies all good no problems!!!.