Mount Lofty Birriee Track is a loop walk that starts at Mount Lofty Summit, 710 meters altitude. The walk is 10.7 km long and takes 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete.
From Mount Lofty Summit, follow the Waterfall Gully Track downhill turning left at the junction with Adventure track also called Chinaman Hut Track.
Continue downhill on the Chinaman Hut track until you meet Carro track at a T junction. Turn left and follow Carro track.
Chinaman Hut Track
You have two options to return to Mount Lofty Summit.
The shorter and steep option is to continue on Carro track.
This walk is described
For a flatter walk take the track on the right Birriee Track.
Birriee track is a narrow track meandering through bushland glades with daisies and swarms of butterflies. Black cockatoos with yellow tails could be seen in large numbers.
We follow the new link trail Crafers to Mount Lofty Summit marked blue to take us back to the Summit and car park.
The Nan Harford Trail
Walking on the Harford Bushland Trail dedicated to the first inspector of forests offers nice views over the Adelaide Plains.
Hiking Anstey Hill covers a range of fire tracks and trails in the area. Make your own hiking adventure choosing from the different tracks. The fire tracks and trails have been upgraded for bushwalking and mountain bikes.
Anstey Hill Recreation Park is 19 km from the city and can be reached via North East Road or Lower North East Road and Perseverance Road.
The hike starts at gate 2 on Perseverance Road. Take the short track towards Boundary Track. Follow the Boundary Track and then Quarry Track uphill to the Old Quarry. From here, hike on Kaurna Way to the Ridgetop Track. You will arrive at an intersection with the Torture Hill Track to the right and Silver Mine Track to the left.
Turn left on the Silver Mine track for a short detour to see the mine shaft.
Silver Mine Shaft
The Tree Gully Iron Mine Company searched in 1888 for silver in this area. The mine was closed one year later as no silver was found.
Returning back follow the Lookout track. Take a short break at the Lookout, to admire the views over the park and Adelaide.
From the Lookout you continue your exploration of Anstey Hill on Newmans track which takes you to Newmans Nursery Ruins. The Nursery was built by Charles Frederick Newman and his wife Mary Ann in 1854. They had 17 children. The nursery was devastated by floods in 1912 and bushfire in 1983.
Newmans Nursery Ruins
Continue on Water Gully Track following the creek. You can return via boundary track straight to the start. An alternative is to turn right on the Ridgetop Track for a steep climb and come down via Wildflower Wander trail which will join Boundary Track. These are steep sections of the hike.
The hike has 9.61 km and has a total ascent of 333.55 m and a maximum elevation of 393.36 m.
The total time was 2.5 hours.
You might not meet Dracula, but walking from Bran to Magura in Romania, takes you back into history and to little changed villages in the foothills of Carpathians.
Bran Castle is a beautiful mediaeval castle, built on the rocky hilltop, in 1377 by Transylvanian Saxons with the authorization of King Louis I of Hungary.
In 1940 the castle was a defence against Ottoman Empire. In 1920 the castle became the Royal Residence of Queen Maria, Queen’s Victoria granddaughter, who married the King of Romania.
Here lies the heart of Queen Maria
The Bran Castle is known as “Dracula Castle” from Bram Stokers novel Dracula. The name Dracula comes from the Vlad the Impaler’s father surname “Dracul”. The truth is that Dracula Vlad Tepes never lived in the castle. The only Dracula we have seen, was a friendly one outside the castle, at the touristic stalls. Ignoring the kitsch stalls and the crowds the castle is worth exploring. It does have a torture chair, the only scary thing.
After visiting the Castle, you start the trekking from Bran, on the red stripe sign. This is the main route which links Bucegi Mountains to the Piatra Craiului National Park.
The route is easy to medium, through forest and meadows, with great views to both mountains and to the Bran village.
The track description specifies that in about 2 hours you will see the Magura village. At one moment the path goes down directly to the main road of Magura village, you walk about 2 km and you reach a junction. Here you turn to the left and after 300 m you see the guesthouse “ Nea Marin”.
Magura village in the distance
When we saw the village, we did not know what to do as the path was not marked. We went down through the houses to the main road earlier then we suppose to. In the end we arrived to Nea Marin guesthouse walking on the road.
The whole track was 9.67 km. The track had a total ascent of 625.27 m and had a maximum elevation of 1,334.04 m. The time taken was 5.21 hours with a medium effort on rolling hills.
Nestled in the middle of Piatra Craiului National Park, Magura is a picturesque village, where local traditions are preserved. The hay meadows, the sheep grazing on the alpine pastures and horse drawn carts can be seen on the road along the modern cars.
At Nea Marin Guesthouse you can enjoy the tranquil life of the Magura Village and the homemade Romanian food. At the guesthouse was also was filmed the Romanian TV series “Serviti, va rog!”
This was a self guided walk, organised by Active Travel Brasov. Marian from active travel took care of the transport and accommodation.
Fagaras Mountains, Vinatoarea lui Buteanu Peak, Romania is a short but challenging track which starts from glacial Lake Balea. It takes 2 hours to reach the peak Vinatoarea lui Buteanu, 2507 m altitude.
Fagaras Mountains are the highest mountains in Romania, with 5 peaks over 2,500 m the highest being, Moldoveanu Peak with an altitude of 2,544 m. The access to the mountains is by car, driving on Transfagarasan road which crosses the mountain and is famous for its numerous hairpin turns, tunnels and viaducts. Transfagarasan road was featured in Top Gear in November 2009 and considered one of the best mountain roads. The road was constructed between 1970 to 1974, with military forces, during the Ceausescu communist period. Many soldiers lost their life during the road construction as they were not trained in blasting techniques.
Track Description
Fagaras Mountains, Vinatoarea lui Buteanu Peak is a loop hike starting at Balea Lake. The total distance was 4.44 km. The route has a total ascent of 404.68 m and has a maximum elevation of 2,435.17 m. It took us 4 hours to complete the loop! From Balea Lake we climbed to Saua Caprei (Capra Saddle) 2249 meters altitude on blue Triangle for one hour, and afterwards we followed the blue cross track to Vanatoarea lui Buteanu (2507 M). From Capra Saddle we turned to north east and walked along the ridge towards Vaiuga Saddle, where we come across the trail that climbs from Vaiuga Valley marked with blue dot.
Walking on the ridge, we enjoyed spectacular views of Lacul Capra (Capra Lake).
Lake Capra
As the ridge track was challenging, we decided to take a short break and consider our options. The decision was to return to Lake Balea, via Vaiuga glacial cirque. We returned to Vaiuga Saddle, from where we followed the track marked with blue dot.
This proved to be a brave decision, as the descent was very steep through a lot of scree. We made it safely to the bottom and reached the track marked with blue stripe, which we followed back to Balea Lake.
The Seven Ladders Canyon (Romanian “Canionul Sapte Scari”) has been carved in Jurassic limestone by a small stream called “Seven Stairs”. The canyon is made by seven slopes and seven cascades with the 2.5 meters and 15 meters. The trail through the canyon consists of metal stairs and platforms.
The Seven Ladders Canyon it is one of the main attractions for the tourists hiking the rocky paths of the Piatra Mare (Big Rock) mountain.
The Seven Ladders CanyonThe Seven Ladders Canyon
The Piatra Mare Mountain is situated in Brasov County.
Walk Description
You start the walk south of Timisu de Jos Village, from the point called “Dimbul Morii”. Start hiking on yellow stripe track, which takes you through the Seven Ladders Canyon.
Start of the 7 Ladders Canyon
The part through the ladders is magical but short about 15 minutes. The ladders and the platforms are well constructed and you need to pay a small fee. The ladders can be wet which makes it challenging at times. Climbing through the rocks and waterfalls of the canyon, made a unique and fascinating experience.
The Seven Ladders Canyon
The canyon track can be crowded over weekends, so try to avoid it in the weekend or start early to avoid crowds. There is a zip line to return if you feel adventurous! You can choose to walk down on the alternate route marked with red stripe as we did.
After passing through the Seven Ladders Canyon, continue trekking to the Piatra Mare Hut which is at 1628 m altitude.
Piatra Mare Hut
We had a good coffee at the hut, to our surprise one of the best in Romania. We filled the water bottles from the nearby stream and start trekking to the Piatra Mare peak (1,844m) following the red stripe track.
At Piatra Mare Peak
Reaching the peak, you have great views over the surrounding mountains and cities Brasov and Predeal. To return follow the easier familial route marked red stripe.
The total distance is of 17.69 km and takes about 7-8 hours. The route is of medium effort going up and downhill with a total ascent of 1206.35 m. The maximum elevation is of 1,826.7 m.
Marian from ACTIVE TRAVEL BRASOV took care of accomodation and transport for our hikes. Contact details for Active Travel Brasov:
Marian Marius TIRLA Owner / Licensed tour & mountain guide
Tramping the Milford Track, in Fiordland National Park, New Zeeland is an awesome experience. It offers stunning vistas, alpine mountains with rushing rivers and waterfalls, rain forests culminating with postcard picture of Mitre Peak.
This was a guided trip with Ultimate Hikes, New zeeland tramping company. The Ultimate Hikes professionally takes care of everything and makes the trip a great experience. You only carry a day pack, you have all the meals prepared, three-course meals, a glass of wine or more at the lodges and most important of all, you have access to washing and drying rooms.
The Milford Track is walked only in one direction and takes 5 days.
Day 1 Glade Wharf to Glade House
The journey begins at Te Anau
From Queenstown, you travel by coach to Te Anau Downs where you board for the cruise to the head of Lake Te Anau. After a picturesque ride you arrive at Glade Wharf. The adventure starts here. After the mandatory photo at the trail head, you are on an easy short walk to Glade House. The walking distance is of 1.6 km.
At Glade House
Day 2Glade House to Pompolona Lodge
The walking distance is 16 km. After crossing Clinton River on the suspension bridge, the track leads into the Beech forest and follows the river for most of the day.
Not far down from the site of Quintin Mackinnon’s first site, is a circular sidetrack to Wetland walk. It is worth a detour on the side track for 15 minutes to admire the unique vegetation.
Returning to the main track, there is a gradual climb to the base of Mackinnon Pass which can be seen past Hirere Falls. At Hirere Falls is an ideal spot for lunch. A little further you pass the Hidden Lake and soon after the 16 km, you will reach Pompolona Lodge. Walking at your own pace, enjoying the scenery, you arrive in 5 to 6 hours to Pompolona Lodge, a luxury lodge provided with washing and drying facility. Pompolona Lodge was named after the scones that Quintin Mackinnon made from mutton fat candles. After a pleasant walk you can enjoy a nice hot shower, 3 course meal and of course scones with jam and cream.
Day 3Pompolona Lodge to Quintin Lodge via Mackinnon Pass
This is the most challenging part of the Milford Track. The distance is 15 km and takes about 6 to 8 hours. An early start is advisable especially if the weather is rainy or windy. The trail passes by a small lake The Mirror, before climbing the Practice Hill, leading to Lake Mintaro. The trail zigzags your way up but caution needs to be taken as the trail can be slippery. The track is of majestic beauty with numerous waterfalls, streams and tarns. Once you reach the top the effort is worthwhile. A short stop at the Mackinnon Memorial built in 1912 in the honor of Mackinnon and Mitchell who pioneered the route in 1888.
Mackinnon Pass Memorial
From here is more climbing to the Mackinnon Pass Hut which is the highest point at altitude 1154 m. After refueling and rehydrating at the Pass Hut you start the downhill section to Quintin Lodge. The Roaring Burn borders the path and after passing the Roaring Burn swing bridge you will soon reach Quintin Lodge. Whilst at Quintin Lodge is worthwhile to take the 1.5 hours return walk to Sutherland Falls. The Sutherland Falls are the world’s fifth highest waterfall at 580 m.
Sutherland Falls
Day 4 Quintin Lodge to Sandfly Point
Distance of the track is 21 km and will take about 6 to 8 hours. The walk is mostly flat with some undulations. You walk down the Arthur Valley to historic Boatshed. After crossing the Arthur River by the swing bridge, you reach the stunning Mackay Falls and Bell Rock. Bell Rock was carved out of the river during a particularly violent flood. You can stay in the hollow bolder.
Bell Rock
After lunch at Giant’s Gate waterfall, the final stretch of track follows tranquil Lake Ada to Sandfly Point the 33.5 mile point and the end of the journey.
33.5 miles Sandfly Point
From Sandfly point, it is a short ferry trip to the renowned Mitre Peak Lodge, the only accommodation at Milford Sound offering superb views over the Mitre Peak.
Day 5 Milford Sound Cruise
Next day you enjoy the magical cruise on Milford Sound, watching for the dolphins and fur seals and the Fiordland in its entire splendor.
Freycinet Peninsula Circuit is a picturesque walk, exploring Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay.
The circuit distance is of 38 km. The trip took 3 days. There was plenty of time to swim in clear water, rest on pristine, secluded beaches, enjoying the unspoilt environment.
The journey begins
Day 1
Walking distance is approximate 10 km with optional trip to Bryan’s Corner.
Walking time is between 5 to 7 hours.
Hazards Beach
A dip before lunch
Start your track at the entrance of the Freycinet National Park. Follow the Hazards Beach Track. Ignore the Isthums Track and head towards the Hazard Beach. Walk the Hazards Beach to continue on Peninsula Track to the isolated Cooks Beach. Walk the Cooks Beach and set up camp at Cooks Beach Camp.
From Cooks Beach you can head to Bryan’s Corner which is a 3 km track.
Day 2
Walking distance is approximate 13 km with opportunity to climb Mount Freycinet and Mount Graham.
Returning back to Cooks Beach head north on Peninsula Track towards Wineglass Bay. Set up camp at Wineglass Bay camp.
Day 3
Walking distance 7-10 km
Leaving Wineglass Bay beach
From Wineglass Bay camp walk the pristine 1.5 km long Wineglass Beach and return via Wineglass Bay track to the car park. You have the opportunity here to Summit Mount Amos if weather permits.
Mount Amos
Well known for its beauty, Freycinet National park has pristine beaches backed by massive pink granite mountains Mount Freycinet and the Hazards. The pink granite of the Hazards is caused by iron oxide in feldspar. Therefore, take the time and enjoy the turquoise water and the white sandy beach at Wineglass Bay.
The water supply is limited. Consequently, ensure you carry enough water during your trip.
Freycinet National park is a very special place for walkers. You can only access the park by walking or by boat. Freycinet Peninsula Circuit should definitely be on your bucket list.
Wild Women on Top group organised the trip with the support of Tasmanian Expeditions.
You can check their websites if planning a trip at
Hiking Mount Amos, Freycinet Peninsula,Tasmania is a short, challenging walk but nether less impressive with panoramic views over Wineglass Bay. The walk is definitely worth it, despite the struggles and the scrambling over the slippery steep rocks.
Mount Amos, the massive granite rock that dominates over the Freycinet Peninsula shines with faded white, pink and grey colours.
The walk is 4 km and takes about 3 hours. The walk has a total ascent of 396.75 m and has a maximum elevation of 435.0 m. After the initial gravelled path, the track becomes rockier and less definite. Try to follow the yellow markers and avoid the damp areas with trickling water, which are very slippery. When scaling the granite you should know that the faded white coloured areas of the rock are the most slippery, a bit less slippery the pink areas and the least slippery the rough blacks ones.
The hard work pays off at you reach the Summit and you can enjoy the picture postcard of Wineglass Bay. You need to be cautious on the way down and it is hard to know which is harder going up or coming down. This walk will be an unforgettable experience and you will be glad that you have done it.
The walk is not recommended when wet or rain predicted.
You need to wear proper hiking shoes with good grip.
Cleland from Mount Lofty Summit is a good training walk. The walk will take you around Cleland Wildlife Park. Early morning you are greeted by Wallabies, Kangaroos, Emus and Dingos.
Cleland Wildlife Park view from Perimeter Track
This walk starts at Mount Lofty Summit and is a loop walk. Allow 2 hours for a 7.1 km walk.
From Mount Lofty Summit head down on Waterfall Gully Track. After intersection with Chinaman Hut Track (Adventure track) continue along the Waterfall Gully Track and after about 200 m turn right, following the trail leading to Cleland Wildlife Park. Follow the Perimeter Track around the Cleland Wildlife Park. Leaving the dingos behind, you exit Perimeter Track and head towards Wine Shanty Track. Turn right onto Lodge Track to return to Waterfall Gully Track and back to Mount Lofty Summit. You have now time for a coffee and a snack at Visitor Centre.
The walk has a total ascent of 273.19 m and has a maximum elevation of 713.2 m.
Cleland Wildlife Park view from Perimeter Track
Cleland Wildlife Park is a major attraction at only 12 km from Adelaide, where you can encounter a great range of Australian wildlife. You will see Tasmanian devil, Koala, endangered yellow footed rock wallaby, wombats, bilbies, snakes, and birds. Cleland Wildlife Park is opened from 0930 to 1700
Mount Lofty Carro Track is good training alternative to the popular, overcrowded Waterfall Gully walk.
Mount Lofty was named by Captain Matthew Flinders in 1802 and it is a loved destination with the locals. Close to Adelaide city, is a preferred place for training or just relaxing having a coffee at Mount Lofty Summit Café or admiring the panoramic views over Adelaide.
A visit to Cleland Wildlife Park offers an opportunity to interact with Australian wildlife.
Mount Lofty Carro track is a short loop track of 7.5 km which can be incorporated in your training routine. It takes 2 hours to complete and a total ascent of 325 m. At the end you can have a short stop to the Mount Lofty Summit cafe for a coffee with friends. I was impressed with the numbers of hikers and walkers which were at the cafe on the Friday morning.
Park your car at the Mount Lofty Summit 710 m altitude. We have started on a foggy morning.
From here take the popular Waterfall Gully Track. Passing Youth Hostel after 600 m turn left on Chainman’s Hut track. Follow the Chainman’s Hut track until the intersection with Carro Track. Turn left and start the climb towards Reynolds drive. From here, take the Nangara Track to return to Mount Lofty Summit.
Youth hostel is off Nangara Trail on the left. Initially was a shepherd’s hut which was damaged during Ash Wednesday Bushfires. It was rebuilt and it can be hired now for accommodation from YHA Australia.
