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A great area for walking
If you feel ambitious then visit the fern gully, at the bottom of our hill, on the southern side. It takes about 45-60 minutes and involves walking back up!
Kurth Kiln Park is directly across the road from Alkira. It contains a range of forest types and other interesting features ready for you to explore. The park is well known for it’s kiln used during the Second World War to make charcoal for gas producer units fitted to motor cars. This was a substitute fuel for petrol which was rationed at the time. The tall kiln still remains relatively intact and is well worth the walk to see it. There is a picnic ground nearby where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
There is an established walking track alongside Shephards Creek which is very pleasant. Tomahawk Creek Walk Circuit is also pleasant walk. Shiprock falls is an unspoiled waterfall over some beautiful mossy boulders. A bit of a clamber to get down there but well worth the effort. Turn right out of our drive and you will find it 3-4 km on the left.
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And lots to do in Gembrook
- Visit Puffing Billy Station, tel : (03) 5968 1627. Gembrook is the terminus of the Puffing Billy (link to www.puffingbilly.com.au) line from Belgrave. The station was rebuilt on the site of the old goods yard in Gembrook town centre after the rail line was extended in 1998. There is a lovely picnic park and play area next to the station and there are snacks, refreshments, souvenirs and gifts available at the station.
- A great selection of arts, crafts and handmade gifts are available from The Enchanted Willow, tel : (03) 5968 1116, The Country Craft Market, tel : (03) 5967 7022 and Blackwood Lane Gallery and Gardens, tel : (03) 5968 1567.
- Treat yourself to delicious freshly baked cakes, rolls, pies and quiches from the local Gembrook bakery
- There is a good choice for dining out. The Ranges Hotel and Restaurant, tel : (03) 5968 1220 and Gembrook Fernery Restaurant, tel : (03) 5968 1855, are both recommended for a great meal, Charlotte’s on Main, tel : (03) 5968 1758, offers lovely Devonshire Teas and light lunches in the restaurant or garden, and M and M’s Café and ice Cream Parlour, tel : (03) 5967 7022, serve delicious coffee, cakes and ice creams. And only 4 minutes away from Alkira you can treat yourself to a delicious meal at The Forest Edge Restaurant, tel : (03) 5967 7007.
A short drive away
Alkira is ideally located for both the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley so there is plenty to do, within easy reach, for both young and old. |
