At this time of year it should be compulsory for everyone to
visit the Huon Valley. The fields are still green, there’s a touch of snow on at
least one of the mountains and all the apple blossom is out.
Now there’s another reason to visit for Tasmanians at least.
Tahune Forest Adventures is offering
Tasmanian residents a free forest adventure pass for 18 months if they apply
before December 31.
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| Cantilevered section of the Airwalk gives views over the tree tops, the mountains and both rivers, if you don't mind heights |
Being the last official day of school holidays, we thought
we should go before the operators changed their minds. Soon the five of us – representing three
generations, were heading off in the direction of the Airwalk. This is an
engineering wonder which affords excellent views over the Huon River, the
Picton River and the Hartz mountains. It also allows you to get up close and
personal with rainforest species such as sassafras, myrtle, celery top and leatherwoods,
as well as some tall stringy barks. For
those not familiar with temperate rainforest, it’s an excellent introduction,
and even for those who are, it offers a whole new perspective. And if, like one of the friends with whom I walked
a few days ago, you prefer your wilderness a little less wild and with all
amenities, then this place for you.
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| Huon River - Cymbaline's Phone pic. |
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| Spring growth puts pretty coppery tips on myrtles |
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| The Native Laurel is in flower |
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| I think this could be a yellow flowering dogwood |
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| As we stopped for apples beside the river, this magnificent square rigger sailed by |
Tasmanian or not, you still have to pay for the accommodation and other
activities such as Eagle Gliding or rafting, neither of which we attempted
today, though we did enjoy the Swinging Bridges Walk which was a big hit with the
girls who seemed a teensy bit apprehensive on some parts of the treetop walk.
Then, after having afternoon tea in Geeveston, were lucky enough
to spot a platypus or two on the Platypus Walk along the Kermandie River. Bees buzzed in the blossom and daisies, bluebells and perwinkles flourished at the margins. Of course, no visit to the
Huon would be complete without buying at least one bag of apples from the many
honesty boxes on the way home. Just as we stopped to do so, a square rigged wooden boat sailed by - just as it would have in days gone by -a fitting finish to a lovely day.
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