Pacific Island Paradises

museum gives a fascinating insight into the island's days of early settlement and natural history. Where to stay There are a range of properties on the island to suit all tastes and budgets. Pinetrees is an all-inclusive resort hotel which has been run by the same family for over a hundred years. For those looking for quality, self contained accommodation, Somerset apartments are a two minute walk from local shops and the beach. No camping is allowed anywhere on the island. Getting around A network of walking tracks criss-cross the island providing access to scenic lookouts and various points of interest. The tracks vary from easy to quite difficult and all have well-marked signposts. Hiring a bicycle is the easiest way to get around the island and there is also a limited number of hire cars available. All accommodation properties provide free airport transfers for guests. Food and entertainment Humpty Micks café offers meals seven days a week as well as an on-site bakery. There is also a general store for self-catering visitors. There are a number of fine restaurants on the island with Pinetrees being the most popular and it is advisable to book in advance. Movies are shown at the local hall each week and there is dancing at the bowling club on Friday nights. 118 www.paradisesonline.com Activities For the adventurous, there are charter boats for deep-sea fishing for Kingfish and Yellowfin Tuna, or make the trip out to Blackburn Island by kayak. The highlight of any trip to the island though, is the eight-hour, rope-assisted guided walk up Mt. Gower, the highest vertical climb in Australia. Alternatively, there are guided nature walks with local experts, fish feeding at Ned's Beach, reef walks, scuba diving at Balls Pyramid, snorkelling, tennis, barefoot lawn bowls or just swimming in the crystal clear waters. Some of the other tours include a round island cruise or viewing life underwater in comfort in a glass- bottom boat cruise on the lagoon. North Bay is a great spot for picnics, bush walking and bird watching. The local golf club, and bowls club welcome visitors and offer meals most nights. Shopping guide There is a general store and local produce and bulk groceries are available at the Co-Op. Souvenirs are available at Thompson's General Store and the Visitors Centre. Alcohol is available from the liquor store, located on Bowker Avenue. Check the Visitors Centre for opening hours. Climate Lord Howe Island is a year-round destination. Temperatures rarely fall below 16ºC in winter, or rise above 27ºC in summer.

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