Where to walk

Of course it’s possible to conquer Ben Boyd National Park’s 30km one-way Light to Light walk, the Far South Coast’s premier bushwalk, in a day – but why rush through when there’s so much to see and do along the way? The first decision is to settle on transport logistics (you can book a transfer north to Boyds Tower with Light to Light Transfers, take two cars to create your own shuttle, or sign up with Sapphire Coast Guiding Co).

The track is more exposed in the south and shaded in the north, if that helps with planning. Those hiking in leisurely fashion can stay overnight in comfort (and enjoy the hot water) at Telegraph Station bunkhouse near Green Cape Lightstation or swan around the more luxurious, renovated, heritage Lightstation Keepers’ Cottages. Along the route, stay overnight at Saltwater Creek and/or Bittangabee Beach campgrounds – both are near great swimming spots. As you hike through coastal heathlands and melaleuca and eucalypt forests, keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, wallabies and sunbathing goannas. In autumn, lyrebirds regularly put on a show for campers at Bittangabee; from June to November, watch for the acrobatics of thousands of migrating whales travelling along the Humpback Highway.

Bundian Way, an ancient Aboriginal travelling route between Twofold Bay and Mount Kosciuszko, is being revived as an epic 380km walking track. Until that happens, you can experience a small taste at the Eden end. The accessible 600m Whale Dreaming Trail starts at the bottom of Imlay Street at Snug Cove and continues through native gardens to a lookout over Twofold Bay. Learn about the extraordinary relationship between the local indigenous people and the beowas (killer whales) that existed before European settlers arrived. The 1.8km Story Trail takes you from Cocora Beach to Quarantine Bay, passing a specially built ceremonial performance place.

On the town’s northern side is the Lake Curalo boardwalk, a flat 6km trail that meanders around the coastal estuary’s shoreline. Along the way, see swamp melaleuca forest, look for pelicans and swans, and peer into the shallow water to spot fish. If you’re still feeling energetic, follow the Aslings Beach maritime walk south from the lake to a stunning ocean rock pool. Eden’s maritime history is etched into the footpath.

North of Eden near Pambula, there’s the stunning 3km Haycock Point to Barmouth Beach walk in Ben Boyd National Park. Revel in the park’s remote beauty as you stroll through windswept heath and woodlands, enjoying the sea cliffs and rock formations. At Barmouth Beach, go swimming, fishing or birdwatching (remember to pack the binoculars) or relax with a picnic. While in the area, head to the Pinnacles loop walking track car park to reach the 1.1km Pinnacles loop from which you can view the spectacular erosion feature – a cliff of soft white sand capped with red gravel clay that was formed millions of years ago.

A 30min drive south around Twofold Bay brings you to the 800m Boyds Tower track – it takes you to the historic tower designed by controversial Scottish entrepreneur Benjamin Boyd. He intended it as a lighthouse, but it was only ever used to spot whales during whaling operations.

Blog post provided by Destination NSW, posted 24th August 2021, click here for the full article.