Where The Fishing Is Easy
The Sunday Age
Sunday February 5, 2006
Croajingolong National Park is one of Australia's last wilderness regions and a UNESCO world biosphere reserve. There are dozens of reasons for visiting, pretty much something for everyone with an interest in the almost-pristine environment. But for somewhere to stay, the terrific hosts, excellent food and accommodation at Gipsy Point Lodge take some beating.
Owners Ian and Libby Mitchell recently completed the refurbishment of this classic 1960s fishing lodge, and it now has six very comfortable en suite guestrooms (with air-con) and three self-contained cottages. Some of the original character has been retained and there's no doubt the talk over dinner is mostly about fishing, but this is a good base for bushwalking and sightseeing as well as cruising on the river system that stretches to Mallacoota. More than 100 bird species can be spotted here. Scenic flights are available at Mallacoota, and at low tide the coastline is fascinating - you can even land at (frequently) storm-lashed Gabo Island and visit the lighthouse or penguin colony. Lodge chef Matthew turns out very good three-course dinners, which is convenient, because there's nowhere else in the shopless Gipsy Point hamlet for meals. It's a long drive, so stay for a couple of days at least. Three meals are included in the daily tariff - dinner, cooked breakfast, and a picnic hamper for morning tea/lunch/afternoon tea. Motorboats, rowboats and canoes are available from the lodge jetty and the fishing is great. The Mitchells are enthusiastic, knowledgeable hosts who offer their guests a rare glimpse into one of Victoria's natural treasures. WHEREVia Princes Highway, 11 kilometres south of Genoa off the Mallacoota road, 520 kilometres or five hours' drive from Melbourne.HOW MUCHGuestrooms are $290 per couple per night, full board included.CONTACTTel: 03 5158 8205, freecall 1800 063 556, or see gipsypoint.com-- Peter Robinson
© 2006 The Sunday Age
