Turon Gates is one of those places where one can become totally absorbed in what is on the 'to do' list, or simply choose to do nothing except read, stare into the wood fire or if you're like me... walk kilometres capturing the beauty and unique experience of the true Australian bush. The retreat is on 6,000 acres and visitors have a choice between a river or a mountain cabin, or can camp alongside the Turon River which bubbles and gurgles its way through some of the most beautiful trees... home to a huge variety of birdlife. We didn't see any of the more elusive birds, but we did see plenty of Crimson Rosellas, the usual Kookaburras, Magpies, Currawongs, as well as a pair of Ravens who were regular visitors. The most prolific were the tiny Wrens, Jacky Winters.. I even saw a Flame Robin but the smaller the bird the harder they are to capture. I did get a Red-browed Treecreeper but in the main, most birds were heard but not seen. What I did get excited about was the Water Rat (we christened him "Ratty" from The Wind in the Willows) who led me a merry chase for some distance over a few days, before I was able to get a series of shots of this remarkable little creature. They are very much like the otter, frollicking and playing, twisting, turning over and over in the crystal clear water. We could have watched him for hours.
The cabins are quite a distance apart giving guests complete privacy and a sense of isolation. The home of the owners, Soren & Sonya Lunoe, is situated down on the bend of the river near the stables. Their dog Katie, is a 4-5 year old black and white Border Collie with a lovable nature. She loves anyone who will throw a ball for her.. all day if you have the energy! Ducks, geese, chickens, all abound in a carefully enclosed area safe from any predators. People stay for just the weekend or the whole week if you've a mind to really bliss out! Check out the website if you want to become genuinely 'lost' in your own thoughts, undisturbed by traffic, TV, mobile phones, internet... leave them at home and get back to basics. You too will leave Turon Gates feeling refreshed in body and spirit and planning when you can go back and do it all over again!! http://www.turongates.com/index.html