Travel guide Gippsland

A true holiday is usually something far away from your everyday life.  That doesn’t mean you have to go to the other side of the country or overseas – just that you need to find a place that allows you to truly relax, while glorying in some of the spectacular scenery that abounds in Australia.  Platypus Ponds at Cabbage Tree Creek is perfectly placed to be this special holiday place, for many reasons.

This area of Far East Gippsland has far more than its share of natural beauty, and is a perfect stopover for those travelling on the Melbourne/Sydney coastal route, being only four and half hours from Melbourne, three and a half hours from Canberra and eight hours from Sydney.  Despite its convenience to major routes, you will feel miles away from the everyday as you succumb to the tranquillity of the surrounds.

Platypus Ponds B&B is set in a private eco reserve that offers frequent sightings of beautiful lyre birds on the Cabbage Tree Creek.  The pole house design makes the most of the setting and there are four bedrooms, comprising two queens and  one king – and one king which is a triple, both of which have an additional roll-out bed if required.  There is a spacious guest lounge, satellite TV, extensive library and all rooms have an ensuite and private balcony.

While the comforts of the B&B are many - a continental or cooked breakfast is included in the tariff - with both dinner and wine available on request, why not take one of their packed lunches and go exploring.  The tourist loop takes you to Cape Conran Coastal Park, with its stunning coastline and sheltered bays, or bushwalkers will delight in the trek into the Gorge or an amble along Yeerung River.  Continue along the coast road towards Marlo and gaze in wonder at the sight of the mighty Snowy River meeting the ocean.

Nearby Orbost is a thriving township with many historic attractions, as well as galleries, arts & crafts shops, cafes, pubs, golf and more.  Raymond Falls and Young’s Creek picnic area are well worth a visit before heading back towards Cabbage Tree Creek – interestingly so named as the site of the most southerly stand of these iconic palms.  The McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is a million miles away from the cares of everyday life and suitable for all levels of fitness.

Of course, for many people the perfect break away is where you do nothing at all, and Platypus Ponds B&B is the perfect place to stroll around the private wildlife reserve or do nothing more strenuous than bird-watch from your balcony, while you enjoy a cup of tea and a book.

However be prepared to be seduced by the abundant natural beauty… you will come away with memories of serenity, the high country and the wilderness coast that will last long after your return to the stresses and strains of daily life.  Oh, and you may just have memories of a platypus sighting or two!