Auldington Launceston

Cataract Gorge Reserve: Cataract Walk

by xuessium

Starting from Kings Bridge, if you choose to take the Cataract Walk first (one of the 2 main walks in and out of the reserve on either side of the gorge), it will lead you into the First Basin, which is filled with water from the South Esk River. This northern trail is the easier of the 2 trails. (It took local residents 8 years to hack the path through the cliffs) This walk will take you about 30 minutes.

Along the journey, you will enjoy great stunning views of the high-rising cliffs. The very first thing you will come across will be the Caretaker's Cottage (see attached photo). There are pavilions along the way if you want to take a rest.

The First Basin is the first place you can take a plunge into the water but be-warned: It can be very cold. Most folks will go to the concrete pools instead but that have not stopped kids and adolescents from cannon-balling into the waters below!

Bridestowe Lavender Farm

by balhannah

The lavender farm was established in 1922, and is renowned the world over for the quality of its true perfumery lavender.
Lavender flowering is in December & January and it was in full bloom when we visited, very picturesque!

The farm consists of 120 acres of rolling lavender fields and is considered one of Tasmania's most spectacular sights. The five-week harvest begins in early January with the distillation and processing of the lavender in full swing.
Guided tours can be taken of the farm during December and January. If you are visiting outside these months, an informative video is screened detailing the farm's history and the harvest and distillation process.

The visitors centre has all different kinds of Lavender products, including LAVENDER FUDGE!
I tried it, and it was very nice!
The cafe has light refreshments and LAVENDER ICECREAM, with a tasting area to experience the use of lavender as a subtle flavouring in foods.
Sit and enjoy a coffee in the Bridestowe cafe or picnic under the century-old oak trees and stroll through the fields and smell the Lavender!

It really is stunning in December/January!

Bridestowe Estate is 40-minutes’ drive 50 kms north-east of Launceston.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD! LAUNCESTON

by xuessium

WHAT IT IS
TASSIE SCALLOP PIE

Tasmanian is home to good quality scallops and there is nothing more scrumptious than a lovely Tassie Scallop Pie. One of the best has to be the one from Hobart but I never skip a chance to stuff myself with 1 if I'm back in Taz.

WHAT IT IS
"SNOW DROPS"

This is a common confectionary product in Oz - "Snow Drops" - basically, chocolate covered marshmallows, dusted usually with dessicated coconuts. Comes in both white chocolate and milk chocolate covered forms.