By Peter Douglas
Is there a more effective way to re-charge the batteries than through a day trip?
Why not try beautiful Marysville which is noted not only for its inspiring surrounds but also for its many activities that are awaiting discovery.
To help the journey, Tourist News has mapped out the perfect day in Marysville – from start to finish.
8.30am (Lady Talbot Forest drive)
To get acclimatised try the Lady Talbot Forest drive.
Starting at Woods Point Road, the drive follows the Taggerty River valley up to the top of Mount Margaret Gap.
From there complete the 46km Lady Talbot drive by continuing down Mount Margaret Road, through the state forest to the Buxton-Marysville Road, and back to Marysville.
Perhaps, pack a Thermos and enjoy a hot cuppa at one of the numerous picnic spots.
10.30am (Keppel Lookout Trail and Steavenson Falls)
After taking in the scenery, it may be time to get the experience in full.
The trail starts at Kings Road Car Park, Marysville, and winds up through the forest to four of the region’s top lookouts.
Follow the trail across Roberston Gully before climbing up to Keppell Lookout, around the ridge – passing Oxlee and De La Rue lookouts – and to the top of Steavenson Falls.
Descend to the base and follow the Tree Fern Gully Trail. Be sure you wear sturdy footwear and carry water and snacks.
2pm (Gallipoli Park)
It’s now time to take in some culture.
Located along Falls Road, Marysville, the popular Gallipoli Park underwent a $1.8 million park redevelopment after the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009.
Among the features are a children’s playground and a reflective garden.
The park restoration comprises three main components – The Kin Playspace, Reflective Garden and the New Life Sculpture.
Gallipoli Park includes a gazebo and ‘garden rooms’, and the New Life Sculpture.
The sculpture is a permanent symbol of new life in the community so visitors should take time to reflect and to enjoy this space.
3.30pm (Bruno’s Art Gallery)
This simply had to be included on the list.
This destination features the original, unique artworks of local sculpture and painter Bruno Torfs.
Nestled among the rainforest setting lives a collection of unforgettable characters, lovingly hand-crafted by Bruno from clay and fired on-site in his kiln.
Also located on Falls Road, this is truly a world of beauty and fantasy that visitors can immerse themselves in for hours.
5pm (Marysville Lolly Shop)
With such a big day now in the bag, it’s probably time for a sugar fix.
Complete with an endless variety of lollies, including the favourites many may remember as a kid – English Sherbet Fountains, Castlemaine Rock and the old ‘Yorkie’ – there will be plenty of chances to indulge.
In addition, the shop often stocks local crafts, foods and skincare products.
Located at 8 Murchison Street, Marysville, this stop-off will be the sweet spot in what will have been an unforgettable day.
For more information on these destinations, visit www.marysvilletourism.com.
