TRAVELS WITH KINGDEANO ADVENTURES
We were craving a quick escape from Melbourne – somewhere close, somewhere quiet. A friend had recently raved about the newly renovated Blackwood pub and said we should check it out. A quick look at Blackwood on Google Maps made it seem like a blink-andyou’ ll-miss-it kind of town. But as we discovered, this tiny town packs a surprising punch.
Our first stop was The Garden of St Erth, a peaceful retreat steeped in Gold Rush history. Once a bustling town of 13,000, all that remains today is a single stone cottage, now home to a quaint garden shop and café.
We were happy to learn that our dog, Twyla, could join us, so we grabbed coffee and scones and enjoyed them among blooming gardens and birdsong. After brunch, I wandered through the extensive gardens – entry is only a few dollars – and imagined how different and beautiful it must look in other seasons.
From there, we headed into town to visit the famous Hat Shoppe. Karen, the owner, greeted us with a warm smile and an even warmer welcome. I was after a new hat, and she didn’ t just point me to the shelves, she measured me up and helped me find the perfect fit. Twyla was allowed in too, which made the experience feel even more relaxed and personal. Karen’ s knowledge and friendliness turned a simple purchase into a memorable part of our day.
With some shopping done, we were ready for a drink and something hearty to eat. The Blackwood Hotel didn’ t disappoint. The heritage building is full of character, but the interior is fresh and comfortable. We sat on the back deck, heaters warming us as we ate a fantastic lunch with Twyla at our feet. Inside, locals played pool near a roaring fire, and the vibe was friendly and welcoming. We seriously considered coming back for dinner – it was that good.
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