Walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse

Cape Byron Lighthouse © Gretchen Bernet-Ward

Before the sun gained intensity, it was a misty morning walk up to Cape Byron Lighthouse. Along the way, I enjoyed coastal views from the Cape Byron walking track which took me on a hike past beaches, through rainforest, grassland and along clifftops to the lighthouse.

The walk is shared by joggers and walkers and is rough in patches but passes through the shade of bangalow palms, ancient burrawangs, and across kangaroo grassland. I had tantalising glimpses of the white lighthouse ahead and views of picturesque beaches alongside before rising to the summit of Australia’s most easterly point.

From the historic town of Byron Bay, the 3.7km walk loops through rainforest and along clifftops with views of the foreshore, eastern coastline and vast hinterland behind the township.
https://www.visitbyronbay.com/

Remember to keep an eye out for friendly lizards on the land, and turtles, dolphins (which I saw) stingrays and whales (in season) in the waters off the headland. I was lucky enough to arrive prior to a guided tour of the fascinating 120 year-old Cape Byron Lighthouse https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/historic-buildings-places/cape-byron-lighthouse

Of course, you can drive to the lighthouse but walking is more interesting! And the town of Byron Bay may have changed but the lighthouse remains eternal.

Information on the Cape Byron State Conservation Area can be found on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/cape-byron-walking-track

♥ Gretchen Bernet-Ward

Kelburn Castle Scotland

This photograph intrigued me for two reasons. First, I thought perhaps the laird is a children’s storybook lover, and second, perhaps National Trust Scotland has relaxed their heritage rules. The illustrations certainly capture the essence of fairytales, well-worked and colourful. No doubt this eye-catching display attracts the attention of the viewing public. For better or worse!

Now, for those who like the facts, here they are:

The Graffiti Project
Most people know Kelburn for its innovative street art projects, or perhaps it is better described as ‘castle art project’, which brought together four leading graffiti artists from Brazil. The artists were asked to transform the rendered exterior of the castle’s south walls and tower into a gigantic work of art, blending Scottish architecture with vibrant and colourful urban art on a giant scale. The Kelburn Castle ‘canvas’ has been named one of the Top 10 examples of street art in the world.

There are lots of other attractions at Kelburn Estate, well worth a visit!

♥ Gretchen Bernet-Ward