BUSHWALKERS and birdwatchers are spoiled for choice on Lord Howe Island, 600km east of Port Macquarie in NSW.
A speck in the Pacific Ocean less than a two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane, the island is a World Heritage-listed paradise famous for birdwatching: 130 permanent and migratory species have been recorded there, including 14 seabird species.
The island is best explored by bicycle and on foot. Although only 11km long and 2km wide, it is laced with dozens of well-marked walking trails ranging from easy strolls at sea level and moderate cliff-top hikes to the challenging 875 metre Mount Gower climb – rated one of the best day treks in the world.
And now the Seven Peaks Walk by Pinetrees has been added to the Great Walks of Australia, the first NSW walk to be so honoured.
This five-day guided adventure goes from North Bay all the way to Mount Gower, the island’s highest peak, taking in lovely beaches, coral platforms, ancient forest and breathtaking views – and, of course, birdwatching opportunities galore.
But if a five-day trek is a bit too much for your winter getaway, here are five other walks you could try:
- A snorkel and walk is a common combination on Lord Howe – such as the track to secluded North Bay. Stretching 7km, the track starts at Old Settlement Beach taking around three hours to complete. Only accessible by foot or water, once there you’ll be rewarded with white sand and snorkelling sights at North Bay including a shipwreck.
- On the east coast, trek through the Valley of the Shadows under a canyon of banyan trees and huge kentia palms. You’ll see why David Attenborough once described the island as “so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable”.
- Malabar Hill is a two-hour return walk and home to one of the world’s largest nesting sites for the red-tailed tropic bird known for its spectacular airborne courting displays between November and June.
- Don’t blink and miss the walk to Transit Hill. Starting at Blinky Beach, Transit Hill is an easy 2km walk to the top of the hill. From here take in 360-degree views of the island.
- The aptly named Intermediate Hill traverses 1.2km, with a challenging descent. At the top you’ll enjoy great views over Ball’s Pyramid (home of Australia’s rarest insect; check out the remarkable story of “Adam” and “Eve”) and Mount Lidgbird.
