By DAVID ALLEGRETTI
THE Marysville triangle encompasses the towns of Marysville, Narbethong and Buxton and is a must see for anybody who is searching for a relaxing yet adventurous and memorable holiday.
During the Black Saturday bushfire disaster in February 2009 Gallipoli Park served as a shelter for Marysville residents who were unable to escape from the town.
Following the devastating fires the park was reopened in April 2011. From out of the ashes an oasis of tranquillity has sprung.
These days visitors can catch children playing at the impressively built state-of-the-art playground or see patrons sitting peacefully by the water.
Gallipoli Park also boasts the impressive and rather beautiful New Life Sculpture as well as a reflective garden which is a permanent symbol of new life in the community and pays homage to those who suffered in the disaster.
About four kilometres south-east of Marysville visitors will find the magical Steavenson Falls.
There’s just something about waterfalls that never fails to capture the attention, to consume and enthral, and these falls are no exception.
They are a true testament to the earth’s natural beauty and serve as the highlight to a delightful stroll through lush greenery.
The path to the falls does not require too much effort and is completely wheelchair accessible which is a very nice touch.
The falls are open seven days a week and floodlit each night until 11pm – a perfect place for a relaxing twilight stroll and a beautiful scene not to be missed.
Foodies are in for a treat as the Marysville triangle offers an abundance of choice.
Warm up over a coffee or hot chocolate at Fragas café in Marysville or head over to Igloo Road House in Buxton for some famous burgers that will definitely not disappoint.
For those who are looking to get away from it all, Woodlands Rainforest Retreat at 137 Manby Road, Narbethong, is the perfect place to escape from the everyday chaos that is modern living and for visitors to just get back to their roots.
Visitors can enjoy a cosy warm fire as they sit soak up the naturally soothing sounds of the rainforest or wash away their worries in the large sunken spa bath which is complete with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out into the rainforest.
Once refreshed visitors can take it further and unwind with a spot of trout fishing.
A 10 minute drive up the Maroondah Highway is the peaceful little town of Buxton.
Upon arriving at the delightful hidden gem of a township, visitors should be sure to check out the Buxton Trout and Salmon Farm.
The family owned and run farm is Australia’s first commercial trout farm, growing quality rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon in the pristine waters of the Victorian Alps.
Beginners as well as experts are welcome to enjoy some therapeutic fishing in a charmingly tranquil setting.
They can then cook their chemical-free catch at one of the farm’s free barbeque facilities.
Buxton Trout and Salmon Farm is at 2118 Maroondah Highway, Buxton.
