Bob's Blog

This Blog will follow my adventures - well holidays really. Hopefully you will want to tell me what you enjoyed in the countries I have visited and maybe recommend places to go.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Abel Tasman Walk







I am now confused! I thought the Queen Charlotte Walk was one of the best anywhere, but Abel Tasman seemed even better! We chose the 5 day option which involved 2 nights in each of 2 lodges, thus giving us 'rest' days in between an easy, a moderate and a hard day of 17km. There were 10 on the walk, a family of 5 (the 3 boys were great) , 3 girls traveling on their own and Cheryl and me. There was a good spirit amongst us and we feel we have gained new friends. In no small way this was due to our guide, Sanne, who was lovely to us all - always cheerful, knowledgable and sensitive to what we wanted as a group and as individuals.
Perhaps this walk made us aware, not only how beautiful this part of New Zealand is, but how it can be enjoyed and not just looked at. I have lost count of the number of beaches that were just breathtaking - arcs of beautiful golden sand, backed by glorious forests, leading to the bluest of seas matching the blue of the sky. The coast line always intriguing, inviting you on to yet another bay around the corner. Out to sea would be islands such that memorable views were offered in all directions.
The lodges were comfortable, great food, and set in wonderful places, such that it was down onto the sand and a short or long walk to the sea, depending on the tide.
The estuaries provided us with the pleasures of kayaking and canoeing - and I got involved! I am a non-swimmer and Sanne's gentle persuasion got me out on the water and it was a great experience.
I felt proud of doing the Queen Charlotte walk but I want to do the Abel Tasman again!

1 Comments:

Blogger Santje said...

Thank you, it was great having you on the trip! Was one of my best, if not the best trips, of the season!!! So how is the swimming going??

11:29 AM  

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