The air invigorates, the champagne sparkling water warms. The flowers, birds & fish outnumber the humans. Romance has returned to nature. Feeding fish swirl the ocean surface. Spring seduces silently.
Palm trees sway in the breeze as the backdrop of mountains; ocean & lagoons teem with life. Red tailed tropic birds breed on the ridges of cliff face. Artic breeders return from their winter home way south.
Only 400 lucky people are here on Lord Howe Island at this most desirable time of year. Some are here to wed & some are here once again, others have arrived for the first time.
There is no crime, no ATM’s, honesty boxes, a speed limit of only 25kmph. One cop polices this paradise with no cats, it’s a tough gig, but someone has to do it.
The island has no predators, be they beast or human, only friends here.
Spring brings the birds in the season of romance. Mutton-birds return to Australia’s own Galapagos, home to over 129 native & introduced species. Seabirds’ mate in the spring.
Oceanview Apartment’s is a LHI business operated by decedents of the original settlers of the Island. They offer superb accommodation close to all the restaurants, stores, post office & only 100 metres to the jetty on the bay. There is a tennis court, swimming pool, games room & access to water equipment like Kayaks, paddle boards, snorkelling & fishing. This is the perfect place to stay with so much on offer. The Charter boats can also be arranged for guests. The BBQ area is perfect for cooking those fresh fish you just caught; or while you’re here why not organise a few S.U.P. or stand up paddle boarding lessons available from the Oceanview boatshed on the Lagoon foreshore – go to http://www.oceanview.nf/ for all the information about living the life in paradise.
The people who settled here are the people responsible for the pristine state of this Natural Wonderland. Over 80% if the Island is native forest & it is called by some “the land of perpetual spring.
The people make the visitor feel welcome, the place is unique & as you get around you will notice that everyone waves.
People get out & about on LHI. Walking is a scenic delight. Tracks abound on this prehistoric relic. Through forest or by the sea.
You can hand feed the fish at gin clear Ned’s Beach. Just put a coin in a box at the kiosk to get some feed. It is a must do on this active isle, the size of the friendly fish will amaze & frighten you. Be game.
After a beautiful spring day outdoors relax at Waimarie only 150 metres form the lagoon & surf beach. Set amid sub-tropical gardens with mountain, ocean & lagoon views, Waimarie is a Maori for peaceful waters. Email waimar@clearmail.com.au.
Those who take an individual angle on their fitness may want to cycle round the islands’ 11kms of roads, but remember to wear your helmet or you might end up in the one cell at the police station, booked by the one policeman!
The most popular mode of transport on the island, head over to Wilsons Hire as they have the biggest range at the best prices & they pride themselves on their service. But if cycling is not your style their rental cars – late model 4 door automatics are excellent value.
The community markets are held every second Saturday of every month at the LHI School. Beautiful local handmade Pandanus baskets, locally grown produce, art works, hand crafts & for the kids there is face painting – a great fun experience with the locals.
This island is a blessed land of plenty & mountains, hills & rugged cliffs rise up from pristine beaches. Hiking trekking & eco – spotting are popular with visitors. The Seven Peaks Walk – a 5 day guided adventure from beach to mountain takes you through Lord Howe’s challenging terrain. Experienced hikers need to be of good fitness. www.pinetrees.com.au for all the details.
Here on LHI you are 600km out from the mainland. This has its benefits. Fish are attracted magnetically to this volcanic outcrop. Over 500 species calls Lord Howe home. It is an angling & game fishing icon.
Serious fisherman can head outside to the deep reefs to fish for tuna, kingfish, trevally, reef, sharks, banner & butterfly fish, morwong, cod & wrasse. Those on shore can fish land based from beach points, bays & lagoons. You can snorkel here also. You can BBQ your catch at your lodgings or at one of the many scenic BBQ spots located around the island especially for visitors.
You can opt to relax sunbathe, take a dip in the azure sea or snorkel through the schools of fish over the coral reefs. At Ebbtide Apartments all your snorkelling gear is provided as are backpacks, picnic packs & beach towels for all your daily adventures. They have a selection of Liquor & local fish packs with complimentary vegetables, herbs & fruit from their lavish garden, they even have wireless internet & iPods docking stations if you really need them! All of this set in 2.5 acres of Hibiscus, Paw Paw, Frangipani & the local Kentia Palms, choose from 3 garden units & 2 free standing units to book or look go to http://www.ebbtide-lhi.com.au/
Being so far offshore, Lord Howe is a swell magnet also, waves break over see – through reefs & classic breaks abound. The views from the reefs are mind blowing. A million miles from care.
Leanda Lei Apartments are set amongst delightful gardens, blooming in spring. Their spacious lawn has views of Mt Gower & Mt Lidgbird. They are perfect for springtime, visitors being only 400m from the lagoon & walking distance to the main attractions of this springtime paradise. Long established as the first purpose built guest house on the island, the refurbished accommodation consist of self-contained apartments & a modern studio. Modern comforts with a slice of island history at this fabulous location go to www.leandalei.com.au for all the details of tours, accommodation & all inclusive package deals.
Surfing the reefs, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding & kayaking are some more ways to keep fit & active while holidaying On LHI. If you do a combination of these the wind & conditions are always right every day.
Many visitors to LHI recommend Hideaway Apartments close to the walking tracks, beaches & shops. Fully equipped & with a BBQ for al fresco dining, choose form the cottages or 5 spacious 2 room apartments with all facilities. http://www.hideawaylordhoweisland.com.au/
Take a boat trip to the Admiralty Island only 15 minutes away for sightseeing, fishing & diving.
Walking through this primeval island is a magical experience, especially in spring. Walking with a local experienced guide can enlighten the experience. Pinetrees has a full calender of amazing adventures for all levels throughout the year, as well as cultural, food appreciation & swimming weeks they run photography & yoga weeks with experienced coach –guides. www.pinetrees.com.au for bookings & details.
Springtime is the perfect time to visit Lord Howe Island. A foodies destination with a relaxed charm. A sporting island with time to relax or renew a romance.
Lord Howe Island will embrace you.
