Posted on 23rd January 2012 by capella in Lord Howe Experiences
Capella Lodge, coral on Lord Howe, Lord Howe Island, Mt Gower
Some summertime rain on Lord Howe has offered up some incredible images. The first three were taken this morning after an incredible 180mm of rain over the last 24 hours. The southern end of the island was flooded with all roads blocked. The up side was both Mt Gower and Mt Lidgbird were covered with waterfalls. Many of our guest are hiking up to the lower falls as I write this. The other photos show how quickly things change here- only the waterfalls remain
There are also two photos which show the coral spawn which fills the shallows
around the island today. The yearly mass spawning happened last night so there
is a decidedly fishy smell in the air today! The pink line you see in the
shallows along the shore is the coral spawn- billions of tiny pink eggs!
Posted on 14th May 2010 by capella in Uncategorized
hibiscus, Mt Gower, rock formations
From Lodge manager Libby Grant
Who says staying on Lord Howe and at Capella Lodge is not a spiritual experience?! If you look south from Restaurant or from the Gower’s Terrce at Capella, towards the peaks of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird you will see what looks like a giant cross that extends across the entire face of Mt Lidgbird. This is a naturally occurring formation that becomes even more distinct during autumn and winter. Once you spot it for the first time, it’s hard not to see it everytime you look towards the mountains. It’s quite appropriate as the mountains do have an almost other-worldly presence, a sense of magnedtism, of something great, powerful and mystical.
Lord Howe does have three churches to service the community the largest being the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Local islanders Ken (who just celebrated his 86th Birthday with us) and Dorothy Ryan are the lay priests for the Catholic Church. They can be found at Capella every second morning and greet all guests as they supply us with the most beautiful hibiscus flowers from their garden for the Lodge.
I am even lucky enough to have one named after me, ‘The Liberty’.
Mount Gower's blessing
Posted on 12th April 2010 by capella in Lord Howe Experiences
Ball's Pyramid, Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, Mt Gower, Mt Gower Trek
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!
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Ancient palm forests
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Lord Howe view to the north
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Lord Howe to the west
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The reef from on high
