The Mount Gower Summit Trek

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Posted on 12th April 2010 by capella in Lord Howe Experiences

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7 April 2010
The Mount Gower Trek justly deserves its ranking as one of Australia’s top day walks. Taking approximately 5 hours to reach the summit at 875metres and another 4 hours to return, this trek should not be taken lightly.
Marvel at the breathtaking views of Ball’s Pyramid, Mt Lidgbird, the lagoon and the northern settlement. Explore the cloud forest on the summit where lichens, ferns, orchids and mosses flourish.
This climb isn’t for everyone, it is extremely challenging. Licensed guides Jack Shick and Dean Hiscox conduct this Class 5 climb three days a week (weather depending).
So, if you are planning on visiting Lord Howe and Capella Lodge remember to start training! Not only are the views from the summit spectacular, you will also get up close and personal with the island wood hens who will be trying to pinch your lunch.
From March to September you will probably also find yourself being dive-bombed by the Providence Petrels which soar around the summit. As soon as they hear any loud noise they come crashing through the dense canopy.
A sojourn in the cedar hot tub is a must after this strenuous day – of course, only if you’re staying at Capella!

Autumn on Lord Howe

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Posted on 7th April 2010 by capella in Lord Howe Experiences

We are enjoying the most splendid week of weather on Lord Howe. Wonderful clear days and whisper breezes have guests setting off on adventures all over the island. One such couple paddled off in one of our kayaks to Blackburn Island ( or Rabbit Island as it is affectionately known), located in the centre of the lagoon.
Blackburn Island was named after David Blackburn, sailing master of the Supply. Its named changed to Goat Island, then Rabbit Island and back to Blackburn Island officially in 1973. The ‘ Rabbit Island’ nickname probably has its origins from the unattended burrows of the Wedge-tailed shearwaters that are very similar to that of a rabbit.
This oval shaped island is only really accessible by kayak or small boat. It is well worth the paddle out there as it is the home for the shearwaters. Their chicks, all well fed and fluffy can be seen outside their burrows. It is also home to Lord Howe’s two lizard species, the skink and gecko.

On the eastern side of Blackburn Island you can see the remains of an old concrete shark ‘processing tank’ from the 1930s. A very short lived industry.


Whilst on the way back from dropping guests to the jetty I passed a group of school children (all barefoot, as is the tradition at the Island school) with their teacher, heading off to guess what?! A kayak out to Blackburn Island for Friday afternoon sport. What a life!

A whale at North Head?!

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Posted on 21st March 2010 by capella in Lord Howe Experiences

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The whale at North Head!17 March 2010
What’s new on Lord Howe Island? Environmental Tours are now offering a North Head Natural History Tour to add to their existing Glass Bottom Boat and Snorkeling Tours. Dean Hiscox, who was a Ranger on LHI for many years, is now conducting a guided walk to North Head. The trip is scheduled twice weekly and leaves from the Environmental Tour’s boatshed. You travel by boat to North Bay via Settlement Beach. If you are lucky you may see a green turtle or two feeding on the sea grass beds there. Dean will take you on an informative walk along the beach to see the nesting seabirds and then continue up North Head. This is not a strenuous climb and no higher than Mt Eliza or Kim’s Lookout. You will have scenic views along the cliffs when you reach the top. When you return to North Bay, both beach and boat snorkeling opportunities are available. Trip duration is 3 hours. Dean also runs weekly guided tours up Mt Gower for those visitors to the island who want an extreme challenge.
The view to North Bay taking Mount Eliza looks just like a whale’s head!

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